This project was conceived from its outset as a collaboration on a number of levels. First, the clients are both designers themselves. The wife is a nationally known graphic designer and the husband is the Project Creative Director at Applebaum Design in NYC. Second, the original 1970s single-level modern house was designed by Peter Ogden, a well-respected and admired architect from Greenwich.
The collaborative process involved working together to keep the original design integrity of the house but also to modernize it for family life in the 21st Century. Very few spaces needed to actually be moved or added, but they did need to be clarified and the spatial sequence from the entrance to main spaces of the house needed to be opened up and simplified.
The only new spaces were a library/office/sun room off the master bedroom suite and a gallery that looks out over the nature preserve and sanctuary. An existing off-the-shelf barn structure was also repurposed and reimagined as a studio and playroom for their three teenagers. Overall, the house takes advantage of its sweeping views across open lawn and nature preserve beyond.
Photography by © Timothy Schenck Photography