This 3,200-square-foot residence and studio sits within a protected river corridor in rural Rhode Island. Conceived as a prototype for a more fluid, ecologically grounded way of living, the project reimagines a long-used retreat site while meeting the programmatic goals of a large communal living area, strong connections to the river, and a compact, efficient arrangement of sleeping and studio spaces. Designed to Passive House standards, the building incorporates triple-glazed windows, 14-inch insulated walls, wood-based insulation, sustainably sourced timber, and a photovoltaic system with battery storage. These elements work together to significantly reduce operational energy demands while allowing the house to function on electricity alone. A distinctive diagonal roofline—developed through iterative physical modeling—shapes the building’s identity and spatial experience. The geometry creates a double-height living room, a mezzanine suite, carved roof courtyards, outdoor showers, and a planted roof terrace that funnels daylight deep into the interior. Material choices emphasize texture, durability, and environmental performance, including thermally modified ash cladding, handmade tiles, custom rugs crafted from remnants, and color-accented window frames. Realized with the hands-on contributions of friends, collaborators, and local craftspeople, the project extends beyond a residence to serve as an ongoing space for experimentation, conversation, and shared gathering.
