The owner desired a contemporary design within the highly restrictive zoning bylaws of Chilmark. The solution is a house within the existing woods with a south-facing courtyard overlooking adjacent preservation land beyond existing stonewalls.

A large central living space is oriented towards the south-facing landscape courtyard, while offering views of the straits, through a veil of trees, to the north. Large sliding glass walls open the house to its site. Wood ceilings, a dual sided fireplace and continuous floor planes negotiate between interior and exterior, blurring the house's boundaries. The project combines vernacular materials with light-filled modern sculptural spaces.

Construction was completed in 2001.

This project has received a 2002 American Institute of Architects New England Design Citation and a 2002 Boston Society of Architects Honor Award for Design Excellence.

Photo Credits:

Chuck Choi Architectural Photography