Germantown House

Germantown House is a 2,800 sf ground-up residence situated on a meadow. Its design centers around the concept of distinct volumes that pivot outward to create intimate covered inner courtyards. The house is composed of three primary volumes: an entrance housing the garage, an office space and a workout area; a central unit for the living room and kitchen; and a separate volume for the bedrooms. This distinction between living, working, and private spaces proposes a new model of domestic life for  three generations to live cohesively in.

These volumes connect at one corner and spin outwards, shaping sheltered courtyards that integrate indoor and outdoor living while preserving privacy. The bedrooms are intentionally separated to create more secluded and private zones. The office and workout area also occupy their own volume, enabling work and wellness activities to remain distinct from the living space. 

Approaching the house from the street, an unassuming curved brick wall guides circulation between spaces, and  conceals the scale of the home. The front entrance leads into the living spaces which, contrastingly, open directly to the south and face toward the forest. An undulating roof plane, integrated with solar panels to harness renewable energy, unifies all volumes under a single canopy. The house is designed with a highly efficient envelope and is heated and cooled using a geothermal system, ensuring sustainable and energy-conscious living.

Status

Design Development

Program

Residential

Area

2,800 sf

Location

Germantwon, NY

Team

Koray Duman, Daniel Elmore, Caitlin Dippo, Roksolana Ozerianska, & Pablo Subiotto Marqués