Country House on Long Island

Country House on Long Island

© Dean Kaufman

This country house, designed on the southern shore of Long Island, USA, by Toshihiro Oki architect studio, was conceived by clients as a gathering place for all family members and their numerous friends and guests.

The house features five bedrooms, each with its own bathroom: this allows guests to retreat from shared time and enjoy private moments if they wish. The second-floor bedroom has a terrace built on the roof, offering wide views of the surrounding landscape.

The exterior walls are constructed from brick resistant to saltwater ocean air and temperature fluctuations typical of the local climate.

Floors are made from travertine tiles with underfloor heating, ensuring thermal comfort. Despite large areas of glazing, such flooring helps efficiently heat the building throughout the year, including winter. The open joints in the travertine give the surface an elegant roughness reminiscent of geological processes that form natural stone.

The building faces the water. The movement of passing ships, bird migrations, tides, and waves are all visible from the sea. The perception of the house itself from the sea changes throughout the day depending on lighting conditions. The dialogue between the coastline and the house appears to be in constant motion.

Photos: Dean Kaufman