Squaring the Circle
Some say rectilinear and rounded forms don't mix well, but this striking house, designed by Steven Harris Architects and the interior and landscape designers at Rees Roberts & Partners, is here to prove the critics wrong.
Designed for an art loving couple and their family as a retreat from the city, this house in the Hamptons is perched on a hill with expansive views of the dunes and the sea beyond. The main building is a two-storey structure in a rectilinear form, with vast floor to ceiling windows to showcase the views. This is set against an infinity pool in a freeform amoeba shape, accompanied by a curvaceous pavilion featuring a cloud-like roof with a reflection pool on top. The latter, when viewed from the upper floor of the house, echoes the view of the sea beyond and is an inspired architectural feature. The organic shape is referenced inside the house in the form of a spiral staircase gently winding its way up the heart of the building like the coils of a seashell. The pool pavilion may shout about its design as much as its more restrained neighbour whispers, but they are engaged very much in dialogue rather than conflict.
Inside, the "upside-down" arrangement with the main living spaces and the master bedroom upstairs ensures they have the best views. In addition to multiple bedrooms and entertainment spaces, the house also contains two offices, a media room, a gym and an indoor basketball court. There are furniture and lighting in sculptural shapes, contrasting materials and eye-catching colours throughout, perfectly complementing the owners' collection of contemporary art, including an abstract mural in the entrance courtyard.
The architects and designers have achieved a rare feat here - creating a house where the interior is as compelling as the architecture, which in turn is as striking as its surroundings.
Links
Steven Harris Architects
Rees Roberts & Partners
Product Inspiration
Standout architecture requires standout furniture with strong sculptural presence, such as the Gruuve Sofa from Moroso, the Foku Chair from 101 Copenhagen and the Riviera Centre Table from Collector.
Make a design statement with impactful lighting such as the Petits Bijoux Pendant Lamp from Catellani & Smith, the Lightbone Floor Lamp from Oblure and the Kactos Table Light from LZF.
For accessories with an artistic touch try the Zag Large Carafe from Atelier Polyhedre, the Bolanzas Hanger from Agrippa and the Souk Mirror from Dooq.
