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Project description

The home takes root near Pahuk, a sacred site in Pawnee culture whose centuries-old narrative blooms once more under the stewardship of a conservationist and a fiber artist.

The home’s design amplifies connection to nature and heritage, becoming a living expression of the family’ values. At the entrance, exposed trusses and concrete columns set a grounded, honest tone. The layout is organized around two main axes, aligning the living spaces with four landmarks: a memorial, a forest, a hilltop, and a river valley. These orientations give each room a distinct view while creating a continuous dialogue with the land, honoring its natural luster.

In the heart of the home, an earthen-red fireplace provides visual and tactile warmth as its textured presence echoes the rich soils outside. Sunlight spills across the couple’s eclectic collection of artwork that spans a whimsical range from Kuba cloth to a fish sculpture floating weightlessly overhead. The collection fills the space with stories and symbols that reflect their artistic spirit. A tower on the upper level offers a quiet retreat for reflection and birdwatching, especially during the biannual migrations when nature’s rhythm pulses.

The detached fiber studio serves as a creative sanctuary, a space illuminated by natural light and oriented to maintain visual and spatial connections with the prairie. Here, the resident artist creates her renowned Ikat tapestries, using ancient dyeing techniques that reflect her deep appreciation for color, pattern, and the stories woven into each piece. A custom pulley system in the fly loft allows her to work on and display large-scale pieces, a testament to the dedication she holds for her craft.

As a way forward, the owner’s share a vision for Pahuk that extends beyond their home to include the greater collection of structures scattered about the property. With plans to offer artist residencies, they aim to welcome others to experience the beauty and history of this place. By preserving the prairies and opening the land to creative and cultural exchanges, the stewards cultivate a spirit of connectedness that ensures Pahuk’s legacy endures for generations to come.

PROJECT DETAILS

Location: Cedar Bluffs, Nebraska

Size: 5,265 SQ. FT.

Type: Modern

Status: Completed 2024