In 2015, Candy called this Cochran Heights contemporary the most talked-about house in the Knox-Henderson area.
When it appeared in 2009, it caused quite a stir. The neighborhood is known for historic Craftsman and Tudor homes and even has a couple of Dilbecks, so this Cochran Heights contemporary was the talk of the town. According to Candy’s story, the original owners designed the home. It was a bold move 16 years ago. When the house hit the market in 2015, it caught the eye of Robin and Matthew Shelby.
“Our friends thought we were insane,” Robin said. “It was a big white box, but the sightlines were incredible, it’s very open, and the acoustics are amazing. I work from home, and there is so much natural light that I never turn a light on during the day.”
From the clean minimalist architecture to the integration with nature and the use of organic materials and flexible spaces, the 2,660-square-foot home reflects the original owner’s time spent in Japan.
One of the features you may not recognize as specifically Japanese is the sunken entry. This is called genkan, which has been a feature of Japanese homes for over a thousand years. It serves as a division of space from the outside to the inside and is where you remove your shoes before entering. Not only is it practical, it also serves to keep evil spirits out!
Japanese-inspired design always allows for flexibility, which is so important for our ever-changing lifestyles today. One of the brilliant aspects of this home is the layout. It is currently configured for two bedrooms but offers an easy option to create a third without compromising flow or design.
The Shelbys enhanced the outdoor space of their Cochran Heights contemporary by adding a fence, a pool, and turf to make it even more livable.
“We made a cool house even cooler,” Robin said. “It’s so unique. When people come to the house, they all want a tour. It’s been a super fun house. I hope someone amazing gets it and loves it as much as we have.”
