Underhill
Lot size: 3.0 acres
Building size: 6,340 sq. ft.
Location: Matinecock, NY
Program: Single Family Residence
Photographer: Michael Moran
Contractor: Qualico Contracting Corp.
Landscape Architect: TL Studio
The simplicity of each courtyard distills the experience of nature, encouraging one to appreciate its subtleties. Every interior space is connected to the exterior on two sides. The layering of spaces from exterior to interior to courtyard collapses the boundaries between them. From selected vantage points, one may see across multiple spaces and courtyards to framed views beyond. Each volume has a sculpted roof that funnels light and air into the center of the structure.
These pitched roof forms, which reference the early Quaker settlement buildings in the area, are used as a motif in the site design as well to intertwine the structures with the landscape. The roof’s inverse profile is carved out of the earth to create a lower courtyard at the basement level. Planted retaining walls slope down to let light and air into the lower level. Similarly, a sunken area with sloped sides forms a destination in the landscape where a grove of trees grows, creating a contemplative spot much like the interior courtyards.
The detailing of interior materials accentuates the central courtyards. The oak floor and weathered oak ceiling boards both radiate outwards from the center. They are custom cut in width and mitered to trace continuously and concentrically around the courtyards. Weathered metal straps on the ceiling accent this geometry and become armatures for lighting and audiovisual equipment throughout the house.
On the exterior, a limited number of materials are carefully detailed to accentuate the geometric form of each pavilion. A pronounced shadow line traces around each building and articulates the scale of the oversized shingles and undercoursing layer. On the roof, the shingles are an ideal material as they accommodate tapering courses that follow the roof’s compound pitches. At areas below grade bluestone is cut to the same size and shape and applied in a shingled manner on the chimney to retain the uniformity of the volumes.
The Quaker values of simplicity and craft tie the new home to the community. Using the courtyard as a device to bring light and nature into the interior of each volume results in an inward looking and contemplative home that establishes the sense of place the parents sought for their family.