McInturff Architects – On Fire!
McInturff photographs by Julia Heine
Architect Mark McInturff’s creative combination of fireplace, TV, bookshelves, and windows along the wall of a DC home recently won a national design competition from the maker of that fireplace, Spark Modern Fires.
There were more than 150 entries from designers across the country and in Canada. “Although the competition was very tough this year, the McInturff entry was hard to beat,” said Tom Healy, president of Spark Modern Fires.
I agree, especially after McInturff explained what it took to create the unit. “It’s all one thing,” he said, explaining that the fireplace/TV unit was literally built into the shelving so they float off the ground.
The photo above gives you a better idea of how it all works. McInturff ripped out a conventional gas fireplace and rearranged the configuration of windows so natural light would flow in at different levels throughout the book shelves. “It’s put together like a Swiss watch,” he said, describing the complexity of the project.
McInturff said members of his staff, along with the owners of his winning creation, spent a night out on the town with their $2,500 in winnings. Congratulations, guys.
Here’s a look at the competition they were up against, which won merit prizes in the contest:
Altius Architecture Inc., Ontario, Canada
Archimania architecture firm, Memphis, TN
Architect Rolfe Kaartinen, Ontario, Canada
Architect Mike McSwain, Elm Grove, LA
Designer Steve Rasnick, Charlotte, NC
I am constantly amazed by the work that McInturff Architects produces. It always is of impeccable quality and design. You have to admire the dichotomy of the fireplace being surrounded by all that flammable materials.
I know, right? McInturff is so talented that way. I mean, who would surround a fire with books?! We all love his work. You should check out his most recent book: “In Residence.” http://www.amazon.com/Residence-McInturff-Architects-House-Design/dp/1864701242/ref=sr12?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1237381465&sr=1-2