Karen L. Jacobson Architects Studio

Columbia County

The house is sited on top of a ridge and embraces spectacular views in all directions. The owners were concerned with the impact that a large house would have on so prominent a site, and requested that it be one story high and hug the earth. This request presented the opportunity to create a small, village compound on the top of the ridge. By making individual buildings with connections, each room has the added benefit of views on three sides. The string of rooms undulate along the ridge of the hill, so the connections are not at right angles. This results in surprise views as one moves through the house.

The owners also wanted the house to be primarily white with Shaker simplicity. Most of the color comes from the natural cherry floors and maple cabinetry and paneling. The lighting and details were selected to be neutral, light and unobtrusive just as the house was to disappear on the ridge.