Shelter Island
Shelter Island, New York

Inspired by traditional Japanese post and beam architecture, this modest 2,800 square foot home for a family of four is perched on the dunes of Shelter Island Sound. The house gently hovers above the natural terrain, positioned to take advantage of beautiful southwest water views, constant breezes and lovely sunsets.

The primary living spaces and family bedrooms are located on the upper level, separated by a breezeway which flows onto a generous covered deck serving to extend the living area. Guest bedrooms, bathroom and utility spaces are tucked under the house with private access from an outdoor stair. The interior design combines a minimal use of built-in furniture and casework with a spare assortment of mid-century modern classics.

The house is constructed entirely of responsibly harvested old-growth cypress wood, industrial steel windows, and radiant-heated polished concrete floors. The landscape is left in as close to its natural state as possible, with additional native planting bolstering the dunes.