River’s Edge is a contemporary interpretation of a traditional New England waterfront cottage. The extraordinary site becomes center stage as one moves through the entrance sequence to the Screen Porch suspended above the waterfront. Within all of the convention is a subtext of the sublime: the sweeping rooflines integrate the slope of the site into the house, the open floor plan honors extraordinary views of water and gardens, and the exotic rooftop deck tucked into the curve of roof perches one above the water and within the trees.
Most importantly, River’s Edge is all about sustainability; the plan is efficient, the construction includes sustainable and reclaimed materials, air-barrier construction with continuous exterior rigid insulation, high-efficiency HVAC equipment, radiant heating throughout, and a solar array on the upper roof. The large overhangs are an architectural detail that provides relief from summer sun yet enables passive heat gain during the winter. River’s Edge is the future, honoring the past.
