When an architect and an interior designer set out to create a country retreat the results can be pure magic. Steven Harris and Rees Roberts have left every thing behind in New York city, to create a home and studio with views of the Catskills and the Berkshires.
The form of the retreat is that of the simple house shape you drew as a child. White-stained shingles cover the forms that rest gently and perpendicular to each at the crest of a hill. There are very few windows and they’re either very tiny, as in a bath, or very large to capture spectacular views.
In the dining room wide sliding barn doors on both sides give way to light and mist and breezes. Can you just imagine sitting there for hours watching fire flies and the sun set? Or having your morning coffee on the patio outside?
The home’s palette is neutral though far from dull. Rich stone tile floors contrast with soft white walls. In the kitchen, day light from a wall of windows makes the marble counters sparkle over the matte grey cabinets. I love how the cabinet and marble tones mimic the dry stack stone wall outside.
A concrete block fireplace with a simple stone slab mantel takes a chill out of the living room. Furniture, plush with volume and style and color, echoes colors from the mountainous landscape painting. I’m awaiting my invitation for this pure bliss retreat!
Designers: Rees Roberts + Partners
Architects: Steven Harris
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