When the Hallocks took up residence in State College after Phil’s discharge from the Navy following World War II, they became Phil’s first client. This is probably the first post-war Mid-Century Modern House in the area. A great deal of the work was done by the Hallocks themselves.
The rocky, steeply sloping lot was likely one of Phil’s most challenging. (Perhaps it helped attract his first real clients in town, though, as they had purchased an abandoned quarry for their home’s location.) Much of the rock for the house was from the site. A naturalized rock garden was created by the couple to complement the structure.
Despite Phil’s advice, the Borough insisted on planting the usual street trees in the tree plot. The rocks won, and the house is void of shade trees. The house was always a work in progress, with several additions and modifications. It was incorporated into The Hallock House II built in 1973 and this view is no longer in existence.
Kitty sits on the terrace by the main entry to the house.
The sun room has a large overhang to the South for protection from summer glare.
The great room of the house can best be described as festive. Phil and Kitty both loved bright colors.
The impressive table lamp to the left was designed and crafted by Phil.
Phil made the built-in sofa utilizing crib mattresses.
Several of Phil’s light fixtures enhance the west end of the great room.
Very careful observation is needed to see the glass in the frameless corner window of the great room.
Ornaments Kitty made from Christmas cards hang with more of Phil’s lights.
The master bedroom portraits are of Kitty and Phil.
Of architectural note are the rock shelves along the side wall.
At the far left of the house, an apartment is built over a large two-car garage.
Phil is shown with his artist son Hal and his specially-painted antique Corvette.
The fireplace of the great room is shown next to the shelf end of the dining table.
The dining table is cantilevered (no leg supports) on steel beams from the large rock chimney.
The cantilever is one of Phil’s favorite design techniques.
