Architects: Bohlin Cywinski Jackson
Project: Seasonal Home in Hamptons
Location: New York, United States
Size: 8,000 sq. feet
Photographer: Nic Lehoux
Text by Bohlin Cywinski Jackson
Set among fields along the south facing coast of Long Island and within a short walk to the ocean, this Hamptons residence is a quiet refuge for a growing family and offers extraordinary views of the surrounding landscape.
This seasonal home lies parallel to the water, looking south into preserved agricultural land with the distant sound of waves breaking along the ocean shore, and north to a field of wildflowers and native grasses. The plan bends slightly to maximize views of the coastline. A path from the parking court leads to a linear walkway of silver-grey weathered wood planks that passes through the entry foyer of the house and out to the pool beyond.
The volume of the house is a two-story wood, steel, and glass structure; transparent walls provide delicacy to the house. Louvered screens and deep overhangs shield the interior spaces from summer sun and allow warm winter light to dip below the roofline.
Inside, a hall runs past the entry foyer and kitchen, at which point the house plan opens into a light filled double-height dining and living space. A large chimney mass and skylight anchor the room. Above a suspended bridge spans through the double-height space connecting second story volumes at varying levels, inclining upward and terminating at either end in an open staircase. Guest sleeping rooms and a master suite inhabit these volumes and look out to the sea.
The upper level master suite includes a study, covered deck and a glorious light filled bath. The outside is comprised of a serene palette of natural materials which will weather as the house ages, harmonizing with the beachside landscape.