Homes of Distinction
by jan brethauer
Most builders can construct a house, but creating a "dream-come-true" takes more than a rudimentary blueprint and building materials. The extraordinary residence is the result of imagination tempered by practical knowledge; creativity paired with experience and wisdom. It is the product of years of study and impeccable attention to detail, and incorporates the interests and lifestyles of the people for whom it is built, yet is adaptable to new occupants should the need arise.

  Acclaimed Milwaukee area home builder John Gaudes, enjoy the reputation of "best in class" among consumers who are becoming increasingly discriminating in their choice of residential design and building specialists.

  To recognize the work of John Gaudes, you might look first at the roofline. If the chimneys on the structure are taller than most others in the neighborhood, chances are it's a Gaudes home. Most likely the home will be an example of traditional architecture (Georgian, Tudor, Federal, etc.) and will fit comfortably into its surroundings, whether the neighborhood is in Mequon, Franklin or Oconomowoc.

  Gaudes, a builder for over 18 years (and realtor for 26), is known for his architecturally sound and historically valid properties. He believes that as a builder, he has a responsibility to the architecture of the home, once he and his clients have determined which style home will best accommodate their "wish list."

  Joined in this creative effort by his son, Vincent, Gaudes and his clients meet to discuss the home and all of its ramifications: what size it should be, how will it be used, what are the physical limitations (if any) of the principal occupants, what special interests should be accommodated into the livingspace, etc. Taking into consideration all of these elements, Gaudes works to maintain the integrity and purity of the

  architectural style without comprising the needs of the client. The interior flow and harmony must be as consistent as the exterior, and artistic license must be tempered with common sense so that the finished product is structurally sound and functional in addition to being aesthetically pleasing.

  The elder Gaudes credits his son with the artistic vision, while Vince looks to his father for the practicality of building skills. Together they work with their clients through all phases of the planning and construction to ensure that the completed home will represent the best expression of (he owner's lifestyle and taste.

  A sincere attempt is made to give every home a sense of purpose and personality which will live well into the next generation and the one after that. "These homes will live lots longer than we will," explained the builders who include features useful for future owners.

  While many Gaudes' homes are of substantial dimension, proportion and balance are more a factor in determining the look of a home than size alone. Shape and placement of windows and doors, width and height of elevations, roof lines and chimneys are drawn into position to give a sense of proportion while at the same time acknowledging interior space demands.

  However, the rigorous requirements of balance don't always preclude a little creativity. Vince recalled recently widening an interior hallway by approximately one foot and rounding off the ceiling comers to create a "gallery" feel in the home. On another project the front porch, which the owner had always wanted, was devised by altering the front elevation to allow for a second-story door, roof and railing above the front door.

  Gaudes favors natural materials and whenever possible uses wood, slate, marble, limestone and granite in his construction plans. Gaudes' homes will have hardwood floors throughout, multiple bathrooms (almost all with windows), great cross-ventilation, multiple natural fireplaces and "important" kitchens.

  Both John and Vince urge their clients not to eliminate parlors or living rooms and dining rooms in their floor plans. While they do endorse connected kitchen/family room spaces, they recommend defining individual spaces as opposed to the "great room" concept. "Everyone needs a little space of their own," John commented.

  They advocate relocation of the television set from the family room into a media room, and recommend a garden room with southern exposure as a wonderful extension of casual living space. They also espouse the importance of planning for future contingencies when drawing up original house plans and cite the conversion of small closets into an elevator shaft in one multiple storied home to allow for the physical needs of a family member.