This exceptionally large lot contains two distinct habitats. The design team was commissioned to develop a Master Plan which linked these areas, while providing a variety of indoor and outdoor living environments. Following an analysis of sun, wind, and shadow patterns through out the year, a series of interconnected gardens and covered pavilions were developed on the upper site. The program includes a secret Tea House Garden, an outdoor fireplace with integrated ‘topographic’ seating, a floating outdoor dinning area, swimming pool, cabana, and dock. Many of these settings can be tuned with the season, opening or closing according to the weather, and offering a range of micro-climates, scales, and settings. A renovated staircase and new aerial tram lead to a restored lakeshore woodland which feels miles from the upper site. In time, this area will appear to have remained little-changed for centuries.

Eric Cobb, E. Cobb Architects