The Garrison House by Sharon Davis Design, completed in 2014, is a striking residence located in New York’s Hudson Valley. Built atop the foundation of an abandoned house and positioned beside a traditional clapboard barn, the home represents a dialogue between past and present. With its 900-square-foot footprint, the house blends contemporary architecture with contextual sensitivity, offering a design that feels both innovative and rooted in place.
A Dialogue Across Generations
The project began with a gabled wooden structure that once stood firmly against the elements but lacked openness. Sharon Davis Design replaced it with a residence that respects historical precedent while embracing its picturesque setting. The southeast facade, facing Albany Post Road, features salvaged Douglas fir siding and a pitched roof, evoking tradition. In contrast, the opposite elevation opens completely with retractable sliding glass doors, seamlessly connecting the interior to the outdoors.
Indoor-Outdoor Connection
A single-story volume extends from one corner of the rear elevation, allowing the Garrison House to wrap around a sunlit patio. This outdoor space gradually steps toward the adjacent barn and into the expansive two-acre site designed by Nelson Byrd Woltz Landscape Architects. The design fosters a strong sense of continuity between built form, landscape, and rural context.
Sustainable Materials and Systems
Past meets present in the home’s approach to sustainability. Interior finishes feature recycled, reclaimed, and locally sourced materials, while high-end millwork elevates the atmosphere. To reduce environmental impact, Sharon Davis Design integrated geothermal heating and cooling, soy-foam insulation, and energy-efficient systems. The Garrison House thus combines modern comfort with environmentally sensitive design.
Garrison House as a Contemporary Landmark
Ultimately, the Garrison House demonstrates how architecture can honor history while embracing innovation. Sharon Davis Design created a home that is contemporary in function, respectful of tradition, and deeply connected to its Hudson Valley setting.
