Project Description
The fox run house is located on the edge of a very large meadow surrounding a pine forest in central Massachusetts. Designed as a weekend home, it is still only a short distance from nearby metropolitan areas. The house consists of a large integrated living area, including a kitchen, dining area and living room. A study behind the kitchen can double as a guest room. The second floor contains a master suite with two additional bedrooms. The design is inspired by the organic modernism of Scandinavian design and highlights use of natural materials in a contemporary manner. The home is closely integrated with the surrounding environment. Key materials used were glass, granite, and Douglas Fir.
The project’s greatest accomplishment is the balancing the house on the edge of a terrific, unspoiled, meadow without compromising its pristine and natural state. Locating the house in the meadow’s northern verge created uncompromised views and southern exposure under the surrounding forest’s tree line. Of equal importance was the need to bring natural light through the house from the sun glazed south facade to the shadowed north. Designing within such a beautiful yet fragile environment, it was essential to complement the natural environment rather than dominate it.
Our inspiration was the stunning beauty of the existing site. How could we occupy this space without destroying its essential nature? Working with an inspired and wise client, we were able to gently, and quietly, insert a great home with minimal disruption.