The House in Millbrook, designed by Peter Pennoyer Architects, stands as a testament to the firm’s dedication to blending classical architectural elements with contemporary design. Situated in the picturesque Hudson Valley of New York, this residence draws inspiration from the region’s rich architectural heritage, particularly the Greek Revival style. The design pays homage to the works of Benjamin Henry Latrobe and John Staub, integrating their influences into a modern context. This fusion results in a home that is both timeless and forward-thinking, reflecting the firm’s philosophy of creating enduring designs that resonate with the past while embracing the present.
Spanning 4,200 square feet, the House in Millbrook is characterised by its symmetrical facades, each possessing a unique character that contributes to the home’s overall harmony. The residence’s design showcases how historical architectural motifs can be reimagined to meet contemporary needs, demonstrating the firm’s expertise in merging traditional aesthetics with modern functionality. This approach not only honours the architectural past but also ensures the home remains relevant and comfortable for today’s lifestyle.
A central feature of the house is its open-plan layout, which fosters a sense of spaciousness and connectivity among the main living areas. The central atrium, kitchen, dining room, living room, and stair hall are all interconnected, creating a fluid living experience. This design choice reflects a departure from traditional compartmentalised layouts, embracing a more open and inclusive approach to residential design. The use of ceilings and proportions to define spaces within this open plan adds a layer of sophistication, maintaining a sense of formality without sacrificing the home’s welcoming atmosphere.
To enhance the home’s connection with the outdoors and bring natural light into the interior, the design incorporates a central atrium illuminated by a laylight. This architectural element features concentric circles of stars, adding a decorative touch that draws the eye upward and creates a focal point within the home. The atrium’s design not only serves as a source of natural light but also as a visual anchor, tying together the various living spaces and reinforcing the home’s cohesive design language.
The House in Millbrook is constructed with a wood frame and cedar siding, materials that are both durable and resonate with the local architectural vernacular. The inclusion of a rain screen siding layer and a two-part insulation system underscores the firm’s commitment to energy efficiency and sustainability. These features contribute to the home’s performance and longevity, ensuring it remains comfortable and efficient throughout the year. The installation of a full radiant floor heating system by Warmboard, coupled with a high-efficiency boiler, exemplifies the integration of modern heating technologies that enhance comfort while reducing energy consumption.
The House in Millbrook also features LED high-efficiency lighting throughout, reflecting a commitment to sustainable design practices. This choice not only reduces the home’s environmental footprint but also provides high-quality illumination that enhances the architectural features and interior spaces. The thoughtful selection of materials and systems throughout the home demonstrates a holistic approach to design, where aesthetics, functionality, and sustainability are seamlessly integrated.
The residence’s design is a collaborative effort, with James Taylor serving as the Partner-in-Charge and Gregory Gilmartin as the Design Director. The team also included associates Matthew Cummings, Arthur Rollin, Cecilia Rodgers, Timothy P. Kelly, Genevieve Irwin, and others, each contributing their expertise to realise the project’s vision. Landscape design was provided by Katie Ridder with Edmund Hollander Landscape Design, and interior design was by Katie Ridder Inc., ensuring a cohesive aesthetic that extends from the exterior to the interior and into the surrounding landscape.
The House in Millbrook has been featured in the book “A House in the Country” by Vendome Press, published in 2016. This publication offers an in-depth look at the design process and the collaborative efforts that brought the project to fruition. The book provides insights into the architectural and interior design decisions, as well as the challenges and triumphs encountered during the project’s development. It serves as a valuable resource for those interested in understanding the nuances of creating a modern home that honours traditional architectural principles.
In summary, the House in Millbrook exemplifies Peter Pennoyer Architects’ ability to reinterpret classical architectural styles within a contemporary framework. The residence’s thoughtful design, attention to detail, and commitment to sustainability make it a standout example of modern classical architecture. Its harmonious blend of historical inspiration and modern innovation offers a compelling vision for future residential design, demonstrating that the past and present can coexist beautifully in the built environment.
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