Family retreat one hour from Manhattan

The Clover Hill residence, designed by Ravi Raj Architect, is located in a 19th-century building on a wooded slope about one hour from Manhattan, New York, USA. The brick structure, previously used as a foundry, was restored to become a weekend retreat for a city couple.

While the house needed renovation, the architect and clients aimed to preserve historical elements wherever possible. Many original features such as thick brick walls and rough wooden beams were retained. For the windows, architects enlarged the openings and installed larger, energy-efficient glazing to allow ample natural light. The side addition was clad with vertical pine boards painted black.

Main changes occurred inside, where architects reversed the layout to maximize space on the upper level. The ground floor, previously housing the kitchen, living room, and dining area, was transformed into a bedroom and family room. The main living zone was moved upstairs, where high ceilings and an open plan give the new communal space a light and airy feel. A closed mezzanine houses a bedroom nook and a movie-watching room. The main bedroom was relocated to a renovated guest house adjacent to the main volume.

Contrasting materials and colors were used throughout to emphasize the connection between new and old. Natural materials such as oak wood panels, pine floorboards, and a white plywood staircase complement the original masonry and industrial wood. Minimalist finishes serve as a backdrop for the owner's refined furniture collection, including lamps and family antiques.