In working with the New Canaan Modern House Tour on several occasions, I had the privilege of working with several influential architects, builders, interior designers, photographers, and more. But one day in particular stands out among all others.
I was given the opportunity to provide transport for John Johansen to several sites, one of them being his influential Bridge House. I was lucky to have spent time with the owners and Mr. Johansen gave us a personal tour of the home.
When the day’s visits concluded, I was asked to make the two-hour trip to Duchess County, NY to Mr. Johansen’s home – also known as the Tent House (see below). We spoke for most of the trip about architecture, but also our musical influences and the literature we enjoyed reading – non-fiction and memoirs being a common denominator.
And when we pulled up, the plastic structure glowing in the sunlight, he asked me to “come inside for a moment.” The moment lasted for over two hours – another tour was in order and I was astonished by the simple complexity of the home. From floor to ceiling, it was astonishing.
After his wife arrived, she greeted me with the same positive energy as her husband had, opening their home and hearts to someone they had never met.
Mr. Johansen passed away on October 26th, 2012 at the age of 96 and I am so thankful for having spent just that one day with him.
