Commercial Architecture

Works in Progress

Fire Island, NY

Fire Island, NY has a sense of casualness and density that comes with the elimination of automobile traffic. Visitors arrive by ferry and travel the island’s intimate paths by foot and bicycle.

In response to these conditions, this modern beachfront house is designed as both an enclave to the nearby residences and a window to the Atlantic Ocean.

The architectural plan, a linear arrangement of service (kitchen, laundry and bathrooms) and served (living, dining and bedrooms) is punctuated by a soaring, two story living space. A floor to ceiling, wall to wall, expanse of windows visually connects the rear patio and pool with the ocean waves. The asymmetrically curved roof takes its’ inspiration from the ocean and dunes.

In keeping with the clients’ desire for an informal, yet dramatic beach home, materials are simple, clean and require low maintenance. The curved wood beams and ceiling are left exposed, custom steel details at the second floor bridge and spiral stair are galvanized and walls are left a neutral tone.

Three objects were chosen for “punches’ of color. A sand colored fireplace and chimney surround, sea green, Venetian plaster spiral stair and cornflower blue, sliding barn door at the playroom likewise take their cues from natural inspirations.