marc thorpe's 100% off-grid fremont house pioneers a return to basics

fremont house emerges from remote catskills forest

Deep in the Western Catskill Mountains, near the town of Roscoe, New York, Marc Thorpe‘s the Fremont House has been built as a symbol of sustainable architecture. This off-grid 100% solar-powered home emerges from amongst the towering forest as a monolithic volume clad in blackened timber. In a compact footprint of 1,000 square feet, the Fremont House embodies a traditional residential program, featuring two bedrooms, one bath, living spaces, and an outdoor terrace. The programs are thoughtfully organized to separate shared and private areas, with communal spaces on the ground level and bedrooms located above.

images © Marco Petrini

marc thorpe pioneers sustainable living upstate

Marc Thorpe Design’s guiding principle behind the Fremont House was to create an affordable contemporary home infused with sustainable technology. The architect firmly believes in individual responsibility for energy consumption and the need to embrace self-sufficiency. In a world where the future of resources is uncertain, the focus here is on quality over quantity. The architects aspire to construct a future that harmoniously integrates with nature, catering to current and future generations.

The project embodies a commitment to this individuality and self-reliance. It serves as an introspective sanctuary where human existence coexists harmoniously with the natural world. In this context, the architecture transcends mere physicality and becomes a timeless, holistic, and eternal part of its occupants. With ecologically sustainable technology and infrastructure, the house stands as a self-sustaining and independent structure intrinsically connected to its environment.

off-grid power by solar generation

Solar Generation, an important partner in this project, provides Marc Thorpe Design with the cutting-edge solar technology for the Fremont House. Founded in the picturesque Hudson Valley of New York, Solar Generation champions the values of community and environmental stewardship. The founders, Todd and Jason, are commited to capturing the region’s independent, creative spirit by delivering bespoke, first-in-class solar installations.

Paul, the President of Solar Generation, has deep roots in the Mid-Hudson Valley and has spent the majority of his professional life in renewable and cleantech industries. He and his team are dedicated to carrying forward the legacy of sustainability and community wellbeing. Solar Generation’s mission is to make the transition to solar energy seamless and affordable. Beyond that, they are deeply invested in local and global goodwill projects and are actively involved in solar farm project developments within the Hudson Valley.

Solar Generation provides the cutting-edge solar technology for the Fremont House
the home emerges from the woods as a monolithic volume in blackened timber
the project is designed to represent a commitment to personal responsibility for sustainable living