It’s hard to believe that this serene New York beachfront home, designed by Aamodt Plumb Architects, is just an hour and half from the hustle and bustle of Manhattan. Tucked peacefully on a narrow barrier island at the southern shore of Long Island, this oceanfront house was made for rest and relaxation, but posed some complex obstacles – namely the hard coastal weather. The narrow site puts neighbors close by on either side, posing another problem when it came to privacy. The architects created a design that responds to the weather conditions, the neighbors and the stunning setting with a plan that is private and protected, yet open at the same time. Resolving all these issues, with an elegant twist, is a modern metal screen. Aptly named Hamptons Beach House, there’s more to this place than meets the eye. Here’s the tour.
The architects explain, “The result was to create a tough exterior shell with an open, light-filled interior. Cast-in-place concrete was used to create a series of robust structural boxes, each defining a different living space and focusing attention on the landscape.” via Freshome
The solid spectrum of materials – mahogany, limestone, stainless steel and concrete – offers durability without compromising aesthetics.
As far as modern beach houses go, this one’s got a leg up. C’mon on in!
The water-jet cut metal screens were added to provide protection from the hurricane-force winds blowing in off the water, minimizes solar heat gain, and reduces the likelihood of inquiring minds and prying eyes from peeking in uninvited! (But really, can you blame them? A house like this practically begs to be explored!)
The sun streams in through the decorative cutouts, leaving a warm afternoon glow as it travels across the sky.
Lending fashion to function, the swirled screens also lead the eye down a wooden boardwalk out to the ocean – that ever present focal point that inspired this simple yet stunning house design.
These beach house interiors aren’t quite what you’d expect on the sandy shore – modern and richly appointed in a palette of naturally beautiful materials. The main living room spans the length of the house, lined with floor to ceiling glass doors offering unobstructed views and direct access to the patio, the pool and the beach beyond.
The continuous wood floors and ceilings spill from the living room to the dining area and kitchen. The open concept interiors are perfect for entertaining family and friends, and of course, enjoying the vistas.
This delicious kitchen is made to function, and to inspire. An organic mix of marble countertops, wood overhead and underfoot, and cognac-colored lower cabinets are offset by modern stainless steel appliances and cool, frosted glass uppers that store but don’t conceal.
The stair hall is wrapped in warm wood and exposed concrete, rising two storeys and lined with a floor to ceiling glass wall looking out over the floral-patterned metal screen just outside. Contemporary style glass globe lights dangle like dewdrops overhead.
The exterior screens provide privacy from the outside, and an amazing sunlit design on the inside.
The screens are a great feature for privacy, without compromising natural light and small but sweet glimpses of the outdoors.
Upstairs, especially facing the ocean, privacy is a natural feature. No screens required! We particularly love the open look and feel of this spa style bathroom, naturally illuminated through glazed walls with a private terrace just outside.
Aamodt Plumb Architects
via Freshome
