the story

Designed in 1957 by A.G. Odell, one of the Southeast’s architectural mavericks, the Cardais House - formerly known as the E. J. Smith House and the Richter House - is a midcentury modern classic nestled within a pristine, expansive wooded lot in the heart of a bustling city.

Connected with the clients through renowned preservationist George Smart of NCModernist, Wittehaus was entrusted with the careful restoration and thoughtful evolution of the architectural gem. The vision is to honor the home’s original character while adapting it to contemporary living through two carefully integrated additions and a freestanding garage.

Alongside these interventions, the project seeks to enhance energy performance and comfort through high-performance building assemblies and modern heating and cooling systems, working within the constraints of the existing structure while incorporating even greater efficiency into the new construction.

The result will celebrate the enduring spirit of midcentury modernism while preparing this remarkable home for generations to come.