John Miller
A mushroom house can refer to either a residential building with a whimsical, mushroom-like appearance or a controlled environment specifically designed for growing mushrooms. The Mushroom House, also known as the Pod House, in Perinton, New York, is an example of the former. Designed for an attorney-artist couple, Robert and Marguerite Antell, between 1969 and 1972, the house features four 80-ton pods that resemble mushrooms and is considered a town landmark. On the other hand, a mushroom-growing house, also known as a mushroom grow tent, provides optimal conditions for cultivating mushrooms, including temperature, humidity, and air exchange.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Location | Perinton, Pittsford, Charlevoix, New York |
| Other Names | Pod House, Gnome Homes, Hobbit Houses |
| Architecture | Contemporary, whimsical, organic patterning, stonework, wide and wavy eaves, exposed rafter tails, cedar shake roofs, horizontal emphasis in design |
| Purpose | Residence, mushroom growing |
| Features | Luxury appliances, a view of a ravine, 4 80-ton pods, windows, adjustable shelving, ventilation systems, lighting equipment, chimneys with snow caps |
| Price | $729,000, $2.75M |
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What You'll Learn
The Mushroom House, Perinton, New York
The Mushroom House in Perinton, New York, is an iconic and unique private residence. It is also known as the Pod House, due to its contemporary 'pod' design. The house was constructed between 1970 and 1972 for the attorney-artist couple Robert and Marguerite Antell. It was designed by architect James H. Johnson, who based the design on the stems of Queen Anne's Lace. The house is made up of four 80-ton pods, which rest on reinforced concrete stems between 14 and 20 feet tall. Each pod has a different function, with one serving as the living and dining area, one as the kitchen, and two as sleeping areas. The house is located in a moderately wooded ravine adjacent to Powder Mills Park.
The Mushroom House has been featured in television programs and books due to its whimsical appearance. It was designated a town landmark in 1989 and has been described as "Perinton's Crown Jewel". The house was owned by the Antells until 1996 when it was sold, and it has changed hands several times since then. In 2012, it was on the market for $1.5 million, and in 2015 it was sold for $629,000. The house has been described as a "must-see" and many people are enamoured by its unique design.
The Mushroom House has a unique and organic design, with tree-like forms rising and branching out from the centre of the pods. The sides of each pod's "cap" are completely windowed, offering views of the surrounding forest. Mrs Antell, a potter, was heavily involved in the construction process and handcrafted over 9,000 ceramic tiles that can be found throughout the house. The house also features a subterranean glass mosaic and fibre optics "Time Tunnel", inspired by Antoni Gaudi, leading to a "cave" that is used as an entertainment room.
The Mushroom House is an example of eclectic architecture and has become a beloved part of the community in Perinton, New York. Its unusual design and natural setting make it a distinctive and memorable residence.
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Earl Young's Mushroom Houses, Charlevoix, Michigan
Earl Young, a self-taught builder and designer, built his iconic "Mushroom Houses" in Charlevoix, Michigan, starting in 1919. Young built 26 residential houses and four commercial properties over a 50-year career, mostly using stone materials like limestone, fieldstone, and boulders sourced from Northern Michigan. Each house is unique and designed to blend into its natural surroundings, featuring whimsical chimneys, arched doorways, and rounded shapes.
Young's Mushroom Houses are known for their distinctive architecture, with wide, wavy eaves, exposed rafter tails, cedar-shake roofs, and horizontal design elements. These homes have been nicknamed "Gnome Homes," "Hobbit Houses," and "Hansel and Gretel Houses," among other whimsical names. Young's creative use of stone and boulders, often incorporating them into the design rather than removing them, results in homes that seem to sprout from the landscape like mushrooms.
One of Young's most notable creations is the "Half House," considered the quintessence of his style. Built in the late 1940s for William Sucher, it is the smallest of Young's houses and sits along the shore of Lake Michigan. Another masterpiece is the official "Mushroom House" at the corner of Grant and Clinton Streets, showcasing Young's signature style.
Young's work can be found throughout Charlevoix, including the Weathervane Inn restaurant, the Weathervane Terrace Inn & Suites, and Hotel Earl. Visitors can explore these unique structures through walking tours offered by the Charlevoix Historical Society, providing a deeper understanding of Young's architectural legacy.
The Mushroom Houses have gained recognition in recent years, even decades after Young's death, with their quirky and whimsical designs captivating visitors to Charlevoix. These homes stand as a testament to Young's creativity and his ability to craft structures that seamlessly blend into their natural surroundings.
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How to build a mushroom-growing house
To build a mushroom-growing house, you'll need to create an environment that is conducive to mushroom growth and sporulation. Mushrooms are fungi that feed on organic matter and require specific conditions to thrive. Here are the steps to build an optimal mushroom-growing house:
Site Selection and Preparation:
Choose a location that receives indirect sunlight and has access to a water source. Mushrooms grow well in slightly shaded and moist conditions. Clear the selected area of any debris, and if desired, construct a small shed or structure to provide some protection from extreme weather conditions. The structure should be well-ventilated but also provide shade.
Soil Preparation:
Mushrooms grow on a substrate, which can be composed of various materials, depending on the mushroom species. Common substrates include straw, wood chips, sawdust, and manure. Prepare the substrate by mixing it with water and nutrients. For example, compost or manure can provide additional nutrients to fuel mushroom growth. Ensure the substrate is slightly moist but not soggy, as proper drainage is essential.
Spawning and Inoculation:
Obtain mushroom spawn, which is the mycelium, or root-like structure, of the mushroom. You can purchase this from specialty suppliers. The spawn will be specific to the type of mushroom you wish to grow. Mix the spawn into your prepared substrate, ensuring an even distribution. This process is known as inoculation, and it effectively seeds the substrate with the mushroom mycelium, which will then grow and colonize the material.
Incubation:
Place the inoculated substrate into growing trays or beds. These trays should be located in your chosen growing area, providing the optimal environment for mushroom growth. Maintain moderate temperatures, slightly above regular room temperature, and ensure consistent moisture. The substrate should not dry out, so regular misting or light watering may be necessary.
Fruitbody Formation:
With proper care, the mycelium will begin to produce mushrooms, known as fruit bodies. This process can take several weeks, depending on the species and environmental conditions. Ensure that the mushrooms have room to grow and that the environment remains moist and well-ventilated.
Harvesting:
When the mushrooms have reached a suitable size, carefully harvest them by twisting and pulling the fruit bodies from the substrate. Ensure that you don't damage the mycelium in the process, as this will continue to produce mushrooms. Regular harvesting encourages further growth.
By following these steps and maintaining optimal conditions, you can successfully build a mushroom-growing house, providing a steady supply of fresh mushrooms. Remember that different mushroom species may have specific requirements, so it's important to research the particular needs of the variety you wish to cultivate.
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The Pod House
The house is composed of four massive 80-ton pods, resembling the umbels of Queen Anne's Lace. These pods rest on reinforced concrete stems ranging from 14 to 20 feet in height. The structure is designed to blend into the surrounding landscape, sited in a wooded ravine adjacent to Powder Mills Park. Each pod has a fully windowed "cap," providing breathtaking views of the natural surroundings.
The interior of the Pod House is just as unique as its exterior. One pod serves as a spacious living and dining area, creating an open and airy atmosphere with its expansive windows. The second pod houses the kitchen, equipped with luxury appliances and modern amenities. The remaining two pods are dedicated to sleeping areas, offering tranquil and private spaces for rest and relaxation. The house also boasts organic patterning, enhancing the connection between the structure and nature.
In addition to the famous Pod House in Perinton, New York, there are also other notable mushroom houses in Charlevoix, Michigan. These homes were created by master builder and designer Earl Young, who built residential and commercial properties that stood out from classical styles. Young's mushroom houses feature organic shapes, wide wavy eaves, exposed rafter tails, and cedar-shake roofs, giving them a whimsical fairy tale-like quality.
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The house's interior
A mushroom house is a style of mid-20th-century house with a distinct, innovative, and often quirky design. Now, let's explore the interior of a mushroom house:
The interior of a mushroom house is just as unique and captivating as its exterior. Upon entering, one is greeted by an inviting and whimsical space that reflects the organic and curved architecture of the exterior. The walls and ceilings are often curved and fluid, with rounded corners and soft lines. The use of natural materials is prevalent, with wood and stone featuring prominently, creating a warm and earthy tone.
The layout of a mushroom house interior is often open and flowing, with a sense of continuity between spaces. Rooms may be defined by subtle changes in floor levels, built-in furniture, or strategic placement of columns or arches. Large windows are a common feature, bringing in ample natural light and blurring the boundaries between the indoors and outdoors. These windows are often custom-made to fit the curved walls, further enhancing the unique character of the home.
The heart of the mushroom house is often a central, open-plan living area that serves multiple purposes. This space might incorporate a living room, dining area, and kitchen in one fluid layout. Built-in seating, bookshelves, and entertainment centers made from wood can be seamlessly integrated into the curved walls, providing functionality and a custom-tailored feel. The furniture chosen for this space often complements the organic theme, with curved sofas, circular tables, and natural materials such as rattan or bamboo.
The kitchen in a mushroom house might feature custom-made, curved cabinets and countertops that follow the lines of the walls. Natural stone or wood countertops and backsplashes add to the organic aesthetic. Appliances are often integrated seamlessly into the design, with custom panels that match the cabinetry. A large, central island can serve as a focal point, providing a functional workspace and a gathering place for family and friends.
Bedrooms in a mushroom house continue the theme of curved walls and natural materials. Built-in beds and custom-made, curved headboards create a cozy and unique sleeping space. Windows may be strategically placed to frame picturesque views and bring in an abundance of natural light. Walk-in closets with custom shelving and storage solutions made from wood provide functionality and a sense of continuity with the overall design.
The bathrooms in a mushroom house might feature curved tile work, custom vanities, and natural stone surfaces. Soaking tubs and walk-in showers with custom tile designs create a spa-like atmosphere. Natural lighting and indoor plants can be incorporated to bring a touch of the outdoors inside, further enhancing the organic and whimsical feel of the mushroom house interior.
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Frequently asked questions
A mushroom house is a residence that resembles a mushroom in shape. The most famous one is in Perinton, New York, constructed between 1969 and 1972.
A mushroom-growing house is a controlled environment designed to provide the perfect conditions for mushrooms to thrive, including temperature, humidity, and air exchange.
A mushroom-growing house allows for precise control over the growing conditions, increasing mushroom yield. It enables year-round mushroom growth and can fit into various spaces.
A mushroom-growing house can be set up in a dedicated room, a backyard shed, or a purpose-built structure.
First, decide on the location and design of your mushroom-growing house. Then, gather the necessary materials and equipment, such as a hydroponics tent or a DIY setup. Install shelving to maximize space, and ensure you have the proper lighting, humidity, and temperature control equipment.
