Battle Branch Residence North Carolina, modern NC home images, Chapel Hill house interior

Battle Branch Residence in North Carolina

February 16, 2026

Architects: Szostak Design, Inc.

Location: Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA

Photos: Jim Sink

Battle Branch Residence, Chapel Hill, NC, USA

In many of our cities and towns, it’s become very difficult to find traditional buildable lands. Here is the Battle Branch Residence sited on one of the steepest sites near Chapel Hill’s town center. Overlooking the University of North Carolina’s Battle Park and Botanical Garden, it was worth the effort just for the view alone.

The design respects its context and also reflects our client’s vision for a modern house with space to enjoy their art and the outdoors, and room to entertain. A landscaped entry court framed by a bridge from the neighborhood drive and site walls provides privacy and a layered entry experience. The primary open- plan, high volume living space extends directly onto the terrace with a pool and views overlooking a forested park.

The context of this home is set with the idea of sustainability. The use of this incredible site, no matter how difficult, allowed for a home to be built within walking distance of the University of North Carolina and the town center of a very walkable Chapel Hill. High efficiency heating and cooling system were utilized along with flow through ventilation and natural daylighting for every room made comfortable and efficient place for live and work.

This 4,000-square-foot house is designed to accommodate our client’s indoor-outdoor lifestyle and provide them with room to entertain, a music and listening space, and gallery walls to display their art.

The design respects the fabric of the Chapel Hill neighborhood by matching the scale and facade line of its neighbors and utilizing a handmade black brick.

An entry court with perennial gardens provides a dramatic entry leading the visitor into the upper level of the home, displaying the client’s art collection and providing circulation throughout the house.

The open kitchen, dining, and living space offers a panoramic view of the terrace and park beyond. A full pantry supports the kitchen and offers flexibility for entertaining.

The master suite can be accessed by the gallery or the living area. The terrace features a pool and both seating and dining areas for enjoying the outdoors.