The House in New England, completed in 2018, is a testament to Robert A.M. Stern Architects’ commitment to blending traditional architectural styles with modern living requirements. Situated on a 25-acre wooded property, the design prioritises environmental sensitivity, preserving natural habitats and mitigating potential impacts from sea-level rise and storm surges. The house’s layout gracefully arcs to embrace a motor court, while its major rooms open up to expansive views of a freshwater pond and the Atlantic Ocean beyond. This thoughtful orientation ensures that the residence harmoniously integrates with its surroundings, offering both aesthetic appeal and environmental resilience.
Architecturally, the House in New England draws inspiration from the region’s Shingle-style cottages and the Vineyard’s vernacular farmsteads. The design incorporates porches, articulated wings, and a curved roofline, elements that are characteristic of these traditional styles. These features not only pay homage to the area’s architectural heritage but also provide functional outdoor spaces that enhance the living experience. The central mass of the house houses the primary rooms, which are predominantly finished in wire-brushed white painted oak, creating a warm and inviting interior.
The interior layout is meticulously planned to cater to both communal and private activities. The living room, a focal point of the home, is flanked by a double-height library and an adjacent library porch, offering a serene space for reading and relaxation. An elliptical dining room, accompanied by a dining porch, provides an elegant setting for meals while connecting seamlessly to the outdoors. Beyond the library, the design accommodates a screening room and a primary suite, which includes a sitting room, his-and-hers closets, and a gym, sauna, and bath, ensuring that the residence offers comprehensive amenities for its occupants.
The House in New England’s design reflects Robert A.M. Stern Architects’ dedication to creating homes that are both timeless and responsive to contemporary needs. By integrating traditional architectural elements with modern comforts, the residence stands as a harmonious blend of past and present. Its thoughtful siting and design not only respect the natural environment but also provide a comfortable and elegant living space for its inhabitants. This project exemplifies the firm’s philosophy of creating architecture that is both contextually appropriate and enduring in its appeal.
In recognition of its architectural excellence, the House in New England was honoured with a 2021 Bulfinch Award by the New England Chapter of the Institute of Classical Architecture and Art. This accolade underscores the project’s success in promoting excellence within the classical tradition and allied arts in the New England region. The award highlights the residence’s contribution to the architectural landscape and its embodiment of the firm’s design principles.
The House in New England stands as a prime example of Robert A.M. Stern Architects’ ability to create residences that are deeply rooted in tradition while embracing modernity. Its design thoughtfully considers environmental factors, integrates seamlessly with its natural surroundings, and provides a comfortable and elegant living space. This project not only honours the architectural heritage of the region but also sets a benchmark for future residential designs that aspire to balance tradition with contemporary living.
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