bates masi + architects: genius loci

‘genius loci’ by bates masi + architects, montauk, new york all images courtesy of bates masi + architects image © michael moran

situated near the small seaside community of montauk, new york, bates masi + architects have sent us images of their recent project ‘genius loci’. the dwelling responds to the ‘the spirit of the place’ by strengthening the cultural context and unique characteristics of the landscape. formerly a horse ranch, the residence is located at one of the highest elevations in the town, surrounded by green pastures. approaching from the south, the design appears to be two modest and separate one-story farm houses. circling around to the north of the building, the structure unfolds to reveal a more extensive elevation.

terrace image © michael moran

embedded into the steep slope of the hill, terrace that encircles the property to the north. a wood screen covers a bridge which unifies the two separate cedar shingle clad volumes, allowing the paved courtyard below to be illuminated. the vernacular montauk building typology of the low-pitched gabled roof is modified to create unexpected moments within the interior envelope. without compromising access to the exterior of natural light, the walls of the entry converge to direct one’s view to the lake.

image © michael moran

without a prescribed circulation path, the site encourages it to be experienced in different ways. one can enter beneath the bridge and ascend a series of terraced planter steps revealing the expansive landscape, ocean and outdoor spaces. another option is to climb an exterior entry stair which directly connects to the interior stair, separated by a wall of glass. a guest staying at the house can freely come and go by a stone terrace that wraps the exterior area from the entry courtyard around to the pool without having to enter the main building.

outdoor pool and view of the ocean image © michael moran

courtyard image © michael moran

entries into the residence image © michael moran

bridge connecting two structures image © michael moran

open living and dining area image © michael moran

master ensuite image © michael moran

upper level terrace image © michael moran

glass facade image © michael moran

courtyard and wood screened bridge image © michael moran

site plan 1. driveway 2. parking  3. main house  4. deck  5. pool  6. spa  7. pool house

lower level plan 1. driveway  2. parking  3. outdoor shower 4. entry stair  5. walkway  6. vestibule  7. stair  8. hall  9. elevator  10. common area  11. playroom  12. gym  13. mechanical  14. pool bath  15. storage  16. guest room  17. guest bath  18. closet  19. garage  20. laundry  21. maid’s room  22. maid’s bath

upper level plan 1. entry stair  2. entry  3. deck  4. living  5. dining  6. kitchen  7. butler’s pantry  8. powder room  9. elevator  10. bridge  11. office  12. closet  13. stair  14. kids room  15. kids bath  16. master bedroom  17. master bath  18. outdoor shower  19. guest room  20. guest bath  21. storage  22. walkway

section 1. entry 2. kitchen 3. terrace 4. guest room 5. hall 6. gym 7. crawl space

project info:

lot size: 1.6 acres building size: 7000 sq.ft. location: montauk, new york program: single family residence photographer: michael moran contractor: davis builder