Beside the Point

This ruggedly sloping property is situated alongside a rocky point on the Connecticut River. The original early 19th century colonial house had been compromised by additions which obscured all but its street-facing façade.

The design reconstructs the identity of the original house carefully. Sensitively placed ‘additions’ are revealed only upon entry to the property. A new, barn-like garage is tucked into the hillside creating a new courtyard.

Client

Private Residence

Location Connecticut
Size 5,239 Sq. Ft.
Year Completed 2008
Photo Credit Robert Benson Photography
Untitled-1 Untitled-1

In response to the homeowner's eclectic art collection, the house features broad hallways which serve as gallery spaces. The ceilings are finished in semi-gloss paint to highlight their role in the interior's paneled woodwork design.

The house follows the shoreline to give every room an intimate relationship with the river. In the kitchen twelve-foot-wide folding glass doors provide a dramatic connection to an outdoor deck.

An arcing staircase leads to the second floor gallery and bedrooms. The master bedroom's curved clapboard ceiling evokes a wooden boat hull, with its 'keel' disguising the air diffusers.

PRESS & AWARDS

Awards

  • Merit Award, Builder’s Choice
  • Honorable Mention, Alice Washburn Awards, AIA CT/Connecticut Magazine