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Bahr Residence
Architect: Deon F. Bahr, FAIA
Designed in 1972 by Lincoln architect Deon Bahr, FAIA, for the then young Bahr family, this home was master-planned to serve the family for a lifetime and is, indeed, currently occupied by the Bahrs 40 years later. Appropriate modifications have been made over the years to reflect the family in transition. Three separate buildings – the home, the studio/garage/workshop/screened-in porch, and the storage unit – are organized around a motor court at the end of a long, narrow, tree-lined driveway. A future elevator and a bridge from the home to the studio are part of the master plan.
The two-story, modern “exploded box” design takes advantage of surrounding rural views while sheltering the east facing deck. The first floor features living areas while sleeping functions occupy the second floor. A multipurpose lower level area contains the family room, sewing, drawing and storage areas. The home uses only 28% of the energy of a comparably-sized residence thanks to careful management of passive solar devices, newly installed high efficiency HVAC equipment, and moderate thermostat settings. The house is clad in low-maintenance exterior materials that weather to a natural grey.
The home’s natural landscape minimizes care. The owners do not water, fertilize, or mow. Native landscaping materials are designed to attract birds and wildlife. The home won a design excellence award from the American Institute of Architects in 1972.