Project: Steeplechase House
Architecture: Brooks + Scarpa
Project Team: Lawrence Scarpa, Angela Brooks, Micaela Danko, Jeffrey Huber, Iliya Muzychuk, Chinh Nguyen, Fui Srivikorn, Calder Scarpa, Yimin Wu, Arty Vartanyan
General Contractor: Tonic Design and Construction
Katherine Hogan and Vinny Petrarca
Structural Engineer: Carolina Mendez, Kaydos-daniels engineers
Landscape Architect: PLAN(t)
Location: Hillsborough, North Carolina, United States
Area: 2573 ft2
Year: 2023
Photo Credits: Mark Herboth
Steeplechase House by Brooks + Scarpa stands on a wooded 65‑acre site in the Appalachian foothills near the Eno River, around Raleigh-Durham, NC. A famed film director and his artistic spouse chose this location to return to a tranquil lifestyle reminiscent of their childhood in Montreal. The architects and client share a long history, and this project marks a unique collaboration built on that trusted relationship.
A Tranquil Retreat in Nature
The house rises among the trees like a pavilion. Its simple double‑gable roofs soar to 31 feet. Expansive glass panels connect the interior to the forest. In summer, the reflective glass and black metal exterior blend into the dappled light. In winter, they stand out like a beacon against snowy backdrops. Natural plywood finishes create a warm, inviting space that preserves spectacular forest views.
Thoughtful Layout and Seamless Transitions
The design organizes the house into two open gabled volumes that separate public and private zones. A transparent, gallery‑like loggia connects the kitchen and dining areas. This space feels like a walk in the forest and links the two halves of the home. Every room benefits from large windows and skylights that invite natural light and fresh air.
Design Excellence and Sustainability
The project uses natural materials and energy‑efficient systems to minimize its environmental impact. The architects chose recycled metal and FSC‑certified wood to honor eco‑friendly principles. They designed the home with passive strategies that cut energy use and lower utility costs. A state‑of‑the‑art energy management system, high‑quality insulation, and strategic glazing further reduce the building’s footprint. The design even conserves 98% of the 65‑acre site, preserving local flora and fauna.
Building Community and Promoting Equity
The house offers both private spaces and shared areas to promote social interaction. The open loggia and generous common areas encourage residents to connect. The design also supports social equity by using sustainable practices that inspire the local community. The project has helped shape a new vision for residential design—one that values human well‑being and environmental stewardship.
Integration with the Landscape
Every element of Steeplechase House responds to its natural setting. The building sits among mature trees and opens to sweeping forest views. The design treats nature as a partner: the large windows frame the forest, and the roof’s height creates dramatic sightlines. As one designer put it, the house “forges a deeper, more meaningful connection between the natural and built environments.”
In short, Steeplechase House blends modern design with timeless natural beauty. It honors the client’s dream of a peaceful retreat while setting a new standard for sustainable, community-focused living. This residence stands as a beacon of architectural innovation that nurtures both human and environmental well‑being.
