Shelter Island House II
The project began rather serendipitously when a couple noticed a construction site in their neighborhood and decided to contact the designers. They were considering a major renovation of their 1960s Shelter Island home, which, despite its appealing modest scale and modern form, was poorly positioned to capitalize on the stunning surroundings. The concrete block structure also led to a damp, drafty interior that was challenging to climate control.
The clients envisioned a home that blended elements of the original design with modern, energy-efficient features. They wanted a state-of-the-art building with minimal energy loads, supported by solar panels and battery backup, that would allow them to fully bring the spectacular views inside the house, and create space to adequately display their diverse art collection.
The result is their dream home, marked by a welcoming covered walkway leading to a striking yellow front door. Inside, a floor-to-ceiling glass wall frames views of Gardiners Bay, with the living room open to the north and south, providing transparency and connection to the landscape. The kitchen, situated to the right, features a cozy atmosphere with wetlands views to the east.
Upstairs, the primary bedroom, designed with a treehouse feel, offers an even more expansive view of Gardiners Bay. Two offices offer different views—one of the wetlands and one of the front of the property, connected to a cantilevered south-facing deck and pergola. An elegant central staircase connects the two floors and the basement, where there is a TV and games room, a yoga room, and a utility space.
The roof’s solar array supplies most of the home's power, with a battery backup system for reliability during outages. Triple-pane windows and a meticulously detailed airtight and super-insulated envelope ensure the home remains comfortable, quiet, and highly energy-efficient.
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