East Hampton Residence East Hampton, New York
A top to bottom renovation of this classic 1970s ranch infuses fresh life to the straightforward structure—a new roof, siding, windows, and doors provide a much-needed update, and serve to recapture the home’s clean modernist spirit.
Major site changes considered both function and aesthetic; embracing the surrounding wooded environs, new plantings of indigenous moss and ferns introduce a landscape of “artful ruggedness.” The newly reconfigured driveway (relocated from the private to the public side of the house), is now an elegant, lean line, which culminates in a series of tiered wooden landings leading to the entrance door, linking the dwelling to the landscape.
These stepped platforms repeat at the rear of the house, establishing distinct zones for lounging, dining, and sunbathing. Tailored teak furniture, aged to a soft grey patina, is complemented by hues of black and white and pops of turquoise. A long, crisply detailed gunite pool replete with a built-in spa is sited away from the house and tucked away by low evergreen hedges. This clever move extends the green vistas to the adjacent nature preserve.
Inside, high pitched ceilings lend drama and airiness, and allow for a stunning over-scaled Noguchi fixture to float above a carefully curated assemblage of early Danish masters. Significant pieces by Hans Wegner, Marcel Breuer, and Finn Juhl coexist alongside custom and contemporary furniture, all in shades of warm oak, bleached mahogany and natural walnut. Textural wicker, canvas and hemp are offset with luxurious raw silk, linen, and cashmere. The setting is serene, refined, yet still rustic, within the highly textured mix, chrome and lustrous elements provide a hint of sparkle.
The same approach is taken in the new kitchen, adding modern conveniences to the rural simplicity. Grey lacquer cabinets maximize storage and are complemented by crisp white stone counters and stainless steel appliances. Deft reconfiguration of the layout allows for an intimate dining area, featuring an iconic walnut and white lacquer Wegner cross-leg table and custom built-in banquet.
The bedrooms are designed “hotel” style, each employing identical custom white oak beds and variations of cantilevered oak wall units. Bathrooms follow suit with cork flooring, grey Baltic stone and metallic highlights, creating an indulgent, understated experience.
Tawny beige and soft grey tones compose a serene palette befitting a home meant for total relaxation and ease. Evocative, nature inspired works by Christopher Wool, Clifford Ross, Herb Ritts, Luke Smalley, Michael Light, and Brian Sharp reflect both the owner’s sharp curatorial eye and subtly reference the bucolic setting.