Salem, MA
Architect: Robert I. Mitnik, AIA
Products used: 6 model VS fresh air skylights
A grand foyer was created for the penthouse condominium in an 18th century Second Empire mansion in the historic MacIntyre District of Salem, Massachusetts.
For the centerpiece of this composition, six VELUX model VS skylights were installed flanking the existing ridge. The skylights were framed by a classical doric entablature suspended atop a surround of ten glass doors, which lead to the main rooms of the house and create mirrored displays of the owners collections.
At night the room loses none of its exuberance, because of the play of different lighting sources against the reflectivity of the glass doors, skylights and cabinet mirrors. This reflectivity is further enhanced by the glossy white woodwork contrasting with the brilliant red walls.
The result is a uniqueness derived from the use of modern functional skylights in a historic, classical setting, and from the fact that the skylights are as elegant at night as they are during the day.