Waterfall House

Project Statement

The site dictated the home be built at the crotch of two hills with steep slopes at front and rear yards making the steep terrain, solar orientation and a desire for outdoor living space all significant challenges to overcome. A past visit to Fallingwater provided inspiration for the drive to pass by the entry and continue uphill to the garage, giving guests and the homeowners entry to the home without any steps. The tight building envelope led to the decision to place the swimming pool at the entry area and double as a waterfall giving guests a dramatic and unexpected arrival experience. Selection of Oak siding, metal roof and local stone exterior materials give the home a natural connection to the site.
The main living area of the home opens to outdoor space at the front and rear providing several options to configure space depending on activities for one person or large gatherings. The rear court provides a space for outdoor dining as well as a safe place for the family pets to be outside in the rural setting. The front court contains the amenities such as pool, hot tub and outdoor kitchen for more active activities.
South facing glass walls bring in the sun while the overhangs were designed to shield occupants from the direct harsh summer sun. The Home office is positioned to create a treehouse feel with a view to the woods behind the home. The Master Bedroom provides a view of the front trees and waterfall as well as doubles as a Porte cochere for arriving guests below.
In general, this home provides all of the spaces the owner's requested and does so in unexpected ways that connect with the wooded site on all sides and provides a unique experience in each space.

Design for Energy:

The home’s orientation takes advantage of the sun for passive solar heating in Winter and the overhangs provide shade in the summer for cooling. High ceilings in the public areas along with walls that open help to control the indoor environment without the use of technology or additional energy requirements. High performance material in the building’s envelope also help reduce the energy required to maintain the home.

Design for Well Being:

The vast amount of glass brings in natural light that reinforces the circadian rhythm and provides connection to the outdoors giving the occupants multiple opportunities for mental and emotional reflection.

Design for Discovery:

This project incorporates and shares lessons learned from other projects that faced challenging sites by by the project team and from visits to other notable projects such as Fallingwater. The materials selected also pass on lessons from other projects such as incorporating natural and local materials like stone and oak siding to reduce carbon footprints, lower long term maintenance and blend with the site.

Design for Resources:

The locally available materials helped inform the home’s exterior through the use of natural stone and wood siding. The same materials plus the metal roof and fascia ensure a healthy environment for the occupants.