Valleyview

Project Overview

This project was a complete reimagining of a 1950s home where tradition meets modern innovation. The client sought a sleek, contemporary design, with a focal point being an ultra-modern fireplace. However, they were also deeply committed to preserving the home's original character—specifically the iconic river rock that adorned the exterior of the fireplace.

Our design solution artfully balanced these two desires. By using smoked bronze glass with two distinct finishes, we framed the new Spark fireplace in a way that preserved the essence of the original river rock while introducing a modern aesthetic. The glass acts as a lens, allowing glimpses of the historic rock, much like viewing stones through the surface of a flowing river. This juxtaposition of materials created a striking visual interplay between the sleekness of contemporary design and the warmth of the home’s natural, earthy elements.

The design concept required careful collaboration with industrial designer Bruce Pawl of Design Works and General Contractor Rescom Inc. to ensure the vision could be flawlessly executed. The result is a seamless blend of old and new—a fireplace that not only serves as a modern focal point but also pays homage to the home’s storied past, creating a stunning conversation between heritage and modernity.

This project demonstrates FM Design's ability to respect a space’s history while introducing bold, forward-thinking design solutions, creating timeless environments that honor both past and present.