Weston Residence
Specht Harpman Architects
MANUFACTURERS
Liveroof, Spark Modern Fires, Pompeii, Prutting And Company, Spj Lighting
YEAR
2013
LOCATION
Weston, United States
CATEGORY
Houses
Text description provided by architect.
The Weston Residence nestles in a valley adjacent to the Saugatuck River.
In plan and section, the elements of the house engage the site in a way that purposefully blurs the transition and distinction between the built and natural environment.
As the house is approached from a road that begins high on a cliff above, the roofscape—or fifth façade— becomes a critical element of the design.
Terraced planes planted with year-round, region-specific succulents step down the hill. Bedrooms project out into these roof gardens, giving a feeling of being fully immersed in the landscape.
The planted roofs are also integral to the high-performance building envelope.
Interior and exterior spaces are joined through views, portals, and material continuity. A glass-backed fireplace provides an elegant surprise.
Like other glass houses, the landscape becomes the “decoration” for the rooms, playing with transparency during the day and reflectivity at night.
