Forthseth Residence & Rice Addition

Arena, Wisconsin

Located between Arena, Wisconsin, and Taliesin, this home captures the beautiful long-distance northern views while opening up to the forested landscapes to the south. Integrated into the hillside, the house offers direct grade access to both upper and lower levels, connected by a grand staircase that promotes natural airflow and ventilation. A geothermal system manages heating and cooling, while carefully harvested cherry trees from the site provide the material for interior trim, wood floors, and cabinetry. The pinwheel-shaped floor plan rotating off a grand two-level fireplace mass responds to the stunning site, defining varied outdoor courtyards at different ground levels.

Later, new owners Tom and Marjorie Rice commissioned an aviary for their Macaws, which I connected to the original design, completing the pinwheel concept.