The building is a simple, compact volume to conserve budget and maximize quality. Traditional exterior materials and detailing belie the modernist plan.  The roof ridge along the short axis with gables on the long sides is somewhat unorthodox but is in direct response to capturing the available solar exposure and orienting the long axis of the house parallel to Stanley Brook and the ANP woods beyond.  In so doing, all living spaces in this house (Kitchen, Dining, Living and Bedrooms) are oriented toward the brook and woods.  The First Floor has 9’ tall ceilings to visually expand the spaces and maximize glass/views toward the brook and woods. A benefit of the tall roof/attic is the small Loft space and attic storage on the third floor.  And yet, the 30’ high roof remains well under the 40’ maximum allowed by the Land Use Ordinance.

Solar optimization (orientation and roof pitch) coupled with seasonal usage has yielded a near net-zero energy home. A design that has been finely “tuned” to site conditions is the primary driver for this house.