Restricted by coastal and wetland zoning laws, bates masi + architects carves space for a family of six and their guests within a small footprint in sagaponack in the hamptons, new york. rooms penetrate the house completely, opening to views of both the atlantic ocean and wetland, between which the house is located. uniting indoors and outdoors, sliding doors tuck into the walls to maximize views and air through the house. thus, the dense program cuts away at the facade, dematerializing it for the passerby whose view is not blocked, but framed by the construction. the resultant porosity is a benefit in case of high water; as is the stepped entrance and corresponding planters that carve into the site, meeting the grading variation required by flooding regulations.
Working with the limitations for the allowed height of the first floor and roof, a moment frame reduces the thickness of the horizontal structure, raising the ceilings. the open facade and white walls allow light to fill and enlarge the space. the metaphor of carving extends to the level of details in the facade, cabinetry, woodwork, and furniture. corten and cedar treated with a victorian-era vinegar and iron filings were chosen as exterior finishes due to their durability against the harsh salty air, creating a no-maintenance, chemical-free, envelope. a geothermal system and green roof also decrease the environmental impact of this home.