The Riverhouse

BWArchitects, USA

Perched atop a shale ridge overlooking the Hudson River in New York, the L-shaped modernist house is part of a former farm, boasting a serene landscape with stunning views of the river.   

The intricate project included the design of several extremely technical spaces, such as a high-end audiophile sound room that required collaborative acoustic-software modeling with outside consultants. The client’s desire to capture views of the river posed structural challenges, requiring the house to cantilever out over the cliffs. The construction also faced site-access issues due to an old, stone bridge leading up to the property.

The building envelope consists of a modular façade with a concrete-and-reclaimed-wood-paneled rain screen. The façade features two layers: the outer rain screen, and a covered timber-lined inner portico that wraps around the house. In addition to coordinating the elevations in the design, during the installation process the team had to integrate domestic products with a specialized window system imported from Germany.

Every architectural drawing for the project, from schematics through construction documents, was completed in Vectorworks software. The initial design was developed using a combination of physical models and sketches. Then the architects turned to digital modeling to coordinate and execute the design.

Environmental strategies were incorporated into the residence. Seven geothermal wells serve the radiant heating and cooling for the home. Overhanging eaves double as exterior deck space, and shield the interior spaces from the summer sun while allowing light to enter during the winter months. Other details that improve the energy performance of the building include the installation of an array of solar panels, a green roof to minimize storm water runoff, and an integrated home control system.

The result is an environmentally conscious retreat that takes full advantage of its natural surroundings.

Originally appeared in Modus News 7