Cambridge Dell House – Cambridge, MA

DETAILS 

Architect: Maryann Thompson Architects

Builder: Essex Restoration

Exterior Cladding
NIGIRI Charred Accoya®
FSC®-Certified: FSC® mix 70%
Select Grade
Finished on face only, sealed on back & 2 long edges
Custom Shiplap

Product Sizes (3)
6’-16’ random lengths
Solid +/- 3/4” thick x +/- 2-3/4” wide
Solid +/- 3/4” thick x +/- 5” wide
Solid +/- ¾” thick x +/- 7” wide

Custom Fascia
NIGIRI Charred Accoya®
FSC®-Certified: FSC® mix 70%
Select Grade
Finished on face only, sealed on back & 2 long edges
Surfaced 4 Sides (S4S) w/custom drip detail

Product Sizes (4)
6’-16’ random lengths
Solid +/- 3/4” thick x +/- 3-1/2” wide
Solid +/- 3/4″ thick x +/- 5-3/4” wide
Solid +/- 3/4″ thick x +/- 7-3/4” wide
Solid +/- 2” thick x +/- 11-3/4” wide

Custom Trim
NIGIRI Charred Accoya®
FSC®-Certified: FSC® mix 70%
Select Grade
Finished on face only, sealed on back & 2 long edges
S4S

Product Sizes (8)
6’-16’ random lengths
Solid +/- 3/4″ thick x +/- 2-1/4” wide
Solid +/- 3/4” thick x 3-1/2” wide
Solid +/- 3/4” thick x +/- 5-1/2” wide
Solid +/- 3/4″ thick x +/- 7-3/4” wide
Solid +/- 2” thick x +/- 1-34/4” wide
Solid +/- 1-1/4” thick x +/- 3-1/2” wide
Solid +/- 1-1/4” thick x +/- 4-3/4” wide
Solid +/-1-1/4” thick x +/- 7-3/4” wide

In the tree-lined hills of vibrant and historic Cambridge, MA, the Cambridge Dell House sits on a half-acre of intricate landscaped gardens. Blending contemporary design with rich detail, this distinctive residence brings a fresh, modern perspective to a neighborhood known for its blend of architectural styles.

The home is clad entirely in NIGIRI Charred Accoya® by reSAWN TIMBER co.; featuring a rhythmic composition of varying sizes and widths, it’s complemented by meticulously crafted custom trim details that create depth, contrast, and a sense of visual motion that animates the exterior. NIGIRI features our award-winning Shou Sugi Ban charring and sealing process that transforms the outer layer of the wood, protecting it from moisture and decay while the carbon-rich surface creates a depth of color that will weather beautifully over time.

Technical Support and Highlights

The Cambridge Dell house project came to reSAWN through a long-standing relationship with our Specification Consultant; a collaborative process with the project team allowed for close coordination throughout material selection and integration of several custom details. Highlights of the collaboration include:

  • Custom Width Optimization for Design & Yield: To meet both aesthetic preferences and material efficiency goals, reSAWN worked closely with the project team to develop an optimized solution using nominal widths of 4″, 6″, and 8″. This strategic approach provided a dynamic, varied appearance across the façade while maximizing yield and reducing product waste.
  • Matching Trim Elements: reSAWN fabricated several custom fascia and trim elements using NIGIRI to coordinate seamlessly with the cladding. Eight varying sizes were developed for window and door trim details while four fascia elements were created with custom drip details.
  • Hands-on Support: reSAWN provided a range of Accoya product samples in varying widths early in the process to help the design team visualize the final installation. This tactile step was essential in selecting the ideal combination of scale, tone, and texture. In addition to material supply, reSAWN supported the project with technical input on optimizing board sizes and trim layouts, which included consultation on achieving the best coverage and performance with minimal modification.

The result of this collaboration is a stunning one-of-a-kind home blending thoughtful design details with high-quality, durable, and sustainable materials. The project team is happy with the outcome and continues to collaborate with reSAWN for new projects.

Based in Cambridge, MA, Maryann Thompson Architects (MTA) offers a wide range of services to public and private clients. Specializing in sustainable, regionally driven architecture, MTA focuses on creating projects with a rich connection between indoors and out, utilizing light, and employing warm, natural materials.

Essex Restoration is an award-winning residential building and remodeling company specializing in custom home renovation and historic preservation in the Boston area. Experienced in carpentry, building, and remodeling, the team’s diverse mix of education and experience is committed to quality workmanship, attention to detail, and exceptional customer service.

NATIONAL NONPROFIT :: KIP European White Oak