Inspiration can have a humble beginning.
This inspiration was a leaky roof, for artist Jeff Brundege, what started
as a roof repair became a life long obsession. His fixing of this leaking
roof became what is now a regional landmark and the subject of many television,
magazine and newspaper articles. In changing the roof line Jeff realized just
how easy it was to change the structure .And change it he did. The house has
been changing and growing ever sense that roof repair back in 1978. Little
remains now of the original little four room house. It now is about a third of
acre in size with one wing reaching three stories high not counting the tower.
And the house is still growing yearly. . What makes the house more then just
architecture is the employment of fine art concepts that engage and provoke the
viewers on an emotional level. In other words the house is designed using the
tricks of the trade more often found in artist studios, museums or movies props
then what is more commonly used by an architectural design firm. The storybook-like
house gives its visitors a feeling of its own timeless presence and leads its
visitors with an almost childlike enthusiasm, taking the visitor in, and then
entertaining them. But like a child the house almost demands that its visitor
pay attention to it or it will play tricks. Visitors become so distracted by the
architectural details of the maze-like structure that they often get lost. The
experience for the visitor is enchanting and a little haunting. It is because
of this psychological content that the art community regards the house as a work
of art and less to the realm of architecture.
The immense amount of detailing and craftsmanship make the
house a masterpiece of old world skill. Brundege, a master wood worker, often employs other
artisans and craftsman into the creation of the art house. It could be said that any time of
the year someone somewhere is working on some element of the structure. Nearly every piece
of detailing be it molding, tile, door or towel bars is created and hand made specifically
for the house. Along with new work the Brundeges have warehoused a collection of gothic
wood work that finds its place in the creation. Though not open to the public the structure
is a center of many art functions and has hundreds of visitors each year. The eclectic nature
of the structure peaks many passersby’s curiosity as to what the structure is. Many think
it may be an old monastery or church. Located on a lonely country road the house is often the
destination for Sunday drivers. Many stop in at the old country store just down the road to
inquire. Those who do, find that the structure is a source of local pride, the Sunday driver
finds out that it’s not old at all, in fact it’s not finished yet and he’ll never stop
building. Why, you ask? Because he can.