Design Solution: Susan T Rodriguez Architecture • Design drew inspiration for the house from the name of the steep drive leading to the site: eyrie, the nest of a bird of prey that’s typically built high in a tree or on a cliff. The design weaves the house together with the natural world, reinforcing the experience of being part of the Hudson Highlands. Both a perch and a frame, it floats above the tree canopy creating a unique overlook and optimizing views of the landscape.

Built on the site of a deteriorated house from the 1960s, the inverted form of the new structure reduced the original’s footprint. Its composition exaggerates the sequence of arrival as one ascends to the view through the double-height entry. Floor-to-ceiling windows along the entire length of the living space open onto a continuous deck, bringing in the landscape. The upside-down planning of the house gathers everyone together in the elevated and open living space. Kitchen, dining, and sunken living room are incorporated into one grand room, with the view unifying it all.

The form of the house minimizes its impact on the site, and its sustainability strategy is aided by deep overhangs for solar control, a northern clerestory, triple glazing, a highly insulated envelope, a 19 kW photovoltaic panel array on the sloped roof of the living space, cross ventilation, radiant heating, and a geothermal system. The use of locally quarried stone and the reintegration of native plant material on the property contributes to reestablishing the site’s original character and preserving the surrounding environment.  

Photo © Jameson Lowrey

Structure and Materials: The upper volume was constructed with a zinc frame infilled with cedar screens and glass above a base composed of locally quarried stone. Blurring the distinction between exterior and interior, wood extends inside with rift sawn oak ceilings, flooring, and millwork on both floors, complimented by a dark stone floor at the entry level with accents of colorful textiles and ceramic tiles throughout. The building cantilevers on three sides from the modular core defined by a 12-foot planning grid that articulates the glazing on both levels and the layout of bedrooms below.

Additional Information
Completion date: 2023
Site size: Withheld
Total construction cost: Withheld
Client/Owner: Withheld

Photos © Richard Barnes

Images courtesy Susan T Rodriguez Architecture • Design; click to enlarge