Credits
From Mago A|D Architecture and Design
Cedar and Stone sits on 50 acres of gently sloping woodland in upstate New York. The desire for clear views of the surrounding mountains, and in particular the ski slopes to the south, drove our site strategy for the house, which is located on a high point at the northern edge of the site. One can feel the land slope away from building, which gives the strong impression of being elevated farther above ground than you actually are.
Several acres to the south have been cleared to allow for views and the development of a small apple orchard and half-acre retention pond for fishing. A heavy tree line shields the property from the highway; the arrival and approach to the site is orchestrated by a long circuitous drive that meanders through the trees.
On arrival one approaches this barn style house from below, to the south. Immediately one can see that the composition is one of well paired opposites. The bluestone base gives a rustic, natural feel, anchoring the house into the site and its surroundings, while the oversize black framed windows and the sharp lines of the cedar exterior exude a more modern approach. This pairing of opposites is further accentuated on the interior, which as a whole has a more traditional style than the modern exterior.
Naturally occurring bluestone boulders in the orchard below the house reflects the heavy quality of the structure, and serves to incorporate the whole into the site. A light exterior of reverse board and batten cedar siding and thick cedar shingles wraps the stone base, and along with the large vertical windows, provides a floating, airy feel to the entire composition.
The interior is carefully choreographed to capitalize features of the site. A full height ceiling in the living room allows for expansive windows and ample light, and provides sweeping views of the woodlands and the mountains, the thin vertical windows to the east compliment the adjacent tree line.
The interior finishes, in contrast to the modern exterior, reflect a hint of the rustic, with heavy wood trim throughout, exposed wood beams, and an eighteen foot bluestone chimney over the fireplace. The master bedroom overhangs the main living space like a hayloft. A large window overlooks the living room on the interior and out onto the site beyond. Barn doors flank this window, further enhancing the rustic feel of the interior.