The specific site chosen for a new residence on Quansett Farm, a historically significant property located on the southern coast of Massachusetts, is characterized by large rock outcroppings and a continuous ledge that delineates the transition from the upper farm to a lower pasture. Instead of removing orsignificantly altering the stone ledge and outcroppings, the design of the new residence embraces these natural and evocative land forms and uses them to diminish the apparent mass of the new structure. By strategically excavating between the outcroppings, the foundation of the new house was inserted into

the ledge and emerges at grade level at the lower pasture.

 

The house is comprised of two clearly defined wings that wrap around the largest outcropping. The taller east wing, which is tucked behind the ledge, contains the more private spaces such as bedrooms, semi-enclosed porches, and a study while the south wing contains a great room overlooking the sea as well as the kitchen and dining room.

 

The southern face of the south wing is constructed almost entirely of glass to capitalize on the expansive views of the sea and the surrounding landscape. During the winter months, the efficiency of a radiant floor system installed within a concrete floor in the great room is optimized by solar radiation gained throughthe glazing. A deep pergola is provided to control the summer sun and to create a shaded porch facing

the sea.

 

Naturally-weathering finish materials are used throughout the exterior of the house to further blend thestructure into the landscape. Glazed openings (either windows or doors) are provided at the ends of all corridors to allow and extend views into the site. The simple forms, restrained details, and use of exterior stone work contribute to the integration of the new residence into the context of the existing farm complex and landscape.

 

 

 

 

Quansett Farm Residence. South Dartmouth, Massachusetts USA