The Skavlems were originally from Canada. Their daughter married Makenzy (Mak) Keith, who became a professor at Penn State. The Keiths were in a bridge group with the Hallocks. When the Skavlems decided to retire, they relocated to State College and asked Phil to design a home for them.
In keeping with convenience for retirees, the home is designed for living on a single floor and has an open floor plan. When the Skavlems died, the Keiths moved into the home. The dwelling is still in the family.
The Skavlem House has several typical Hallock touches. These include windows extended to the height of the roof and a large wing wall, both of which serve to enhance the apparent size of the dwelling. Also entryways are to the sides of the home and a two-car carport is attached.
The great room fireplace is enhanced by a raised hearth and built-in bookcases.
The dining area features a beautiful built-in buffet and hutch and pass through to the kitchen.
The kitchen features beautiful natural wood cabinets and generous countertop space.
Look carefully to see the buffet beyond the pass through to the dining room.
The master bedroom features clerestory windows, cathedral ceiling, and natural wood closet doors.
The open door leads from the full-width rear porch into the great room.
As well as extending the house, the wing wall hides a patio space behind.
This wing wall detail shows somewhat Hallock’s typical “pattern of squares.”
The home has a large screened-in porch across the rear, with a view to the Tussey Mountains. Just inside the porch is the great room, with spaces for living and dining.
The walk-out basement is level with the yard.
(To the left of the porch is a later addition.)
