Residence Narrative

This 1500 sq.ft. home is on an east facing slope in Port Washington. It is one of 43 closely spaced homes, a cooperative community, formally a bungalow colony, originally squatter shacks for workers of a sand/gravel quarry. Recently, with increased property values, accessible location, quality schools, and direct train line to Manhattan, the bungalows have been torn down and replaced with contemporary fulltime homes with projecting decks, dangerous stairs that compromise the hillside. Our client desired to build a structure which cooperated with the slope, respected the adjacent homes (as close as 5 ft), and maximized the views. Difficulties included a code size of 1500 sq.ft, (+750 sq ft cellar), and no less than 5’ space between homes.

Another requirement is to respect the front and rear alignments of the adjacent homes. Our solution to adhere and achieve the allowable size, was to place part of the home underground in the front yard. This space is covered with a green roof. In the rear, the water facing facades ziggurat up the hill and shift angles to enhance the views while maintaining privacy.

The plan is configured around an entry courtyard which opens circulation to the rear terraces and beach stair and allows views from the underground guest room. The south side is anchored to an exposed concrete wall to achieve the required fire rating and sound isolation. The master bedroom on the upper floor has a solar panel roof, as much of the home is below grade and super insulated, very little energy is required to maintain a comfortable environment. Given the site restraints, the structure is designed top down, utilizing mat slabs anchored to retaining walls, minimizing load to the hill. Above grade envelope is a steel frame with laminated wood infill members.