44 Benedict Hill Rd New Canaan, CT, 06840

About the Home

The Evans House, 1961, is an important midcentury modern architectural masterpiece designed by James Evans as his own home, included in the 1961 Modern House Tour. Using a thin-shell structural system, Evans designed his soaring, square, one-story (plus lower level) house with a hyperbolic paraboloid roof, allowing a nearly completely open plan as few inter-load carrying supports are necessary. Featuring floor-to-ceiling glazing, his intent to mesh indoor and outdoor living spaces is further emphasized through the living/dining room's six sliding glass doors. There have been very minor alterations to the house. The wrap-around deck was originally designed with a wrap-around bench rather than a railing. The airy effect of the house is especially pronounced since the ceiling height is nearly two stories tall at its highest points. The roof projects beyond the plane of the walls, protecting the window walls from weathering. The house, which has a square footprint, is built into a gently sloping site. The primary entrance and living/dining room, kitchen and Master suite are located on the first floor and four additional bedrooms, two baths and laundry room are located on the fully exposed lower level at the back of the house.