1,200sf high-performance, low-disturbance residence in Ulster County, NY.

Design copyright Laura Carter. Image credits Laura Carter or building owner.

The building is elevated on helical piles to minimize site disturbance and damage to root systems, provide flood resiliency, and eliminate use of concrete.

Mineral wool boards from Rockwool wrap the building to eliminate thermal bridging through the studs. A special thermal break material is also used between the posts and the bottom of the floor joists.

Two separate volumes create distinct ‘public’ and ‘private’ spaces, with elevated decking in between.

Rooms, windows, and doors were placed to frame specific views and trees.

Pika-Pika siding from Nakamoto Forestry is installed on a rainscreen system.

An 18’ wide bi-fold door from Loewen will allow the living/dining room to fully open onto a deck.

Clerestory windows bring in light while maintaining privacy from the street and neighbors.

Two state-protected streams criss-cross the site, underscoring the need for a low-disturbance approach.