JOHN RAUCH

620 W. GATE HOUSE LN.

BUILT 1985

This house was constructed on plans by architect John Rauch for himself and his wife. The house sits on the edge of the grounds of the Krisheim (Woodward) estate, along the margin between the estate's sweep­ing lawn and the adjacent dense woods, affording views into two dramatically contrasting environments.

It is designed as a bungalow, with a smaller second floor over the first floor, all under an encompassing roof. The north facade, toward the estate grounds, is relatively closed; the south opens into the surrounding woods. The style, materials and colors relate to the historic architecture of Chestnut Hill. The interior is arranged as a pavilion, with open spaces and freestanding partitions.

John Rauch was a partner with Robert Venturi for more than 30 years.