West Meade Residence

West Meade Residence — IADA 2026 award

West Meade Residence received Honorable Mention recognition at the International Architecture & Design Awards 2026 in Architecture. Project status, design team and credits are listed alongside the presentation.

About the project

This one-of-a-kind West Meade residence was transformed for 21st century living while maintaining its distinctive 20th century character. The home is located among principally ranch-style residences of the period, set on gently rolling plots of land. While many of the original homes are now being demolished and replaced with large two-story houses, this West Meade residence remains rooted in its history and upgraded for modern life.

The original architect, Bernard Weinstein, was commissioned to design this home in 1966 for the Strauss’s who raised their children and resided there for many decades until their passing. When new homeowners purchased the home, they appreciated aspects of the residence but debated demolition. They commissioned a new architect to restore the unique home, drawing inspiration from its low slung symmetric and iconic gabled roof forms, deep overhangs, and minimalist material palette. The ensuing renovation reinforced the clarity of the original architectural parti while modernizing the home and meeting the needs of its new owners.

Originally organized around a central living volume flanked by bedroom and family wings, the interior had limited connection to the expansive rear lawn, with principal spaces opening only to a recessed terrace later enclosed as a sun porch. A new entertainment room extends the central form into the landscape, anchored by a second fireplace and wrapped in continuous corner glazing to strengthen interior-exterior connections.

In the central volume, living and dining areas were repositioned to flank the existing fireplace, enhancing symmetry and daylight from skylights and a light cove. Freestanding partitions maintain the entry’s definition while preserving openness across the space.

The family wing was re-envisioned to accommodate an expansive kitchen overlooking a breakfast and den area with improved views. The original garage was repurposed for exercise and laundry, and a new garage addition extends the home’s architectural language. The bedroom wing was refined, with the primary suite redesigned for privacy and exterior access. An expanded raised terrace, landscape improvements, carefully matched brick, and a circular drive aligned with the entry reinforce symmetry while allowing the additions to blend seamlessly.

Comprehensive upgrades included a new roof and skylights, insulated glazing, improved insulation, and replacement of mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems. Original elements, including the Strauss family’s Murano glass dining fixture and dining table, were preserved and incorporated into the renewed interior.

The project illustrates how thoughtful stewardship can extend the life of mid-century architecture while adapting it for contemporary living. By reinforcing Weinstein’s original vision, the home remains a distinctive and enduring presence within West Meade’s evolving neighborhood.

Bauer Askew Architecture

Founded by Tom Bauer, AIA, LEED AP, and joined by Garry Askew, AIA, LEED AP in 2003, and JC Elder, AIA, LEED AP BD+C in 2013, our leadership team is guided by a shared commitment to thoughtful design and personalized service. Bauer Askew Architecture is founded upon a deep commitment to projects that enrich civic, educational, and spiritual life - projects that leave a meaningful and enduring impact on the communities they serve. Our approach is grounded in context, driven by function, and shaped by the belief that architecture should foster identity, connection, and legacy.

As we celebrate our 30th anniversary, we’re looking ahead - continuing to design with integrity, to respond to the communities we serve, and to create architecture that stands the test of time.