New Book “Pondbank” Chronicles Traditional Palladian Home Build
Last month's new book release, Pondbank: The Residence of Robert and Judi Newman, chronicles the six-year journey of building an extraordinary home. A masterpiece of Palladian architecture, Pondbank is a new residential home in Denver designed by architect Don Ruggles.
From making thousands of decisions to attending hundreds of hours of meetings, the Newmans share every detail in this new book. This grand endeavor warranted a telling of why (especially after a disastrous previous building).
A timeless home of sophisticated design and energy efficient features throughout, Pondbank—the name given to the home, which is perched on a hill overlooking a pond on the property—is a 21,500-square-foot neoclassical masonry estate that blends classical and modern elements to create a functional, inspiring, and everlasting family home.
More than just a residence, Pondbank was designed to showcase a world-class art collection, maximize natural light in every room, and harmonize history, art, and the landscape.
“This is much more than a book about architecture and design,” said Judi Newman in a statement. “From the nuts and bolts, literally, to the moment we lost our dog in the walls of the home, we share the full experience to help guide others who dream of creating a magnificent home from the ground up.”
Robert and Judi Newman—accomplished professionals and deeply committed philanthropists known for their enduring contributions to universities, the arts, sustainability, and education in Denver and Miami (the annual ICAA Rocky Mountain Benedict Awards has an honor named after them)—assembled a world-class team to bring their Pondbank vision to life:
- Architect Don Ruggles, AIA, NCARB, ICAA, ANFA, CEO emeritus of Ruggles Lindemann Bell, co-authored the book and sketched more than 300 drawings that evolved into the final design. Grounded in neuroscience architecture principles and adhering sustainability standards, the home was designed to enhance health and well-being at every turn.
- Interior designer Paula Berg blended art deco and art nouveau influences, curating furnishings, cabinetry, murals and hidden technology. She has also designed the Newmans’ homes in Scottsdale, Arizona, and South Beach, Florida.
- Landscape designer Herb Schaal, FASLA, created sensory-rich landscapes, including the courtyard and strolling gardens, featuring reflexology paths, moonlit spaces, and water elements.
- Contractor and custom builder Jeff Barnett, owner of JKB Construction, referred to as “the glue,” managed the entire project, making the impossible possible.
- Artisans and craftspeople contributed bespoke details, including a hand-drawn mosaic by project manager Melissa Mabe, brought to life with custom Italian glass tiles lining the indoor pool.
- Photographer Peter Vitale is credited with many of the images in the book, placed alongside those from the Newmans and contractors who documented the process.
The book was co-written by Pulitzer Prize-winning author Mike McPhee and designed by John Boak. Published by Fibonacci, Pondbank is available online at Strand Books and Barnes & Noble.