Fernwood Residence is a new residence on a four acre suburban site. The contemporary-style residence overlooks this tranquil landscape from the highest level of the original site. STIMSON worked closely with the architect to site a the building while ensuring the protection of the existing on-site retention pond biosystem which serves a community of neighboring properties. We designed both formal and private outdoor circulation and living spaces that echoed and enhanced the long, linear wing forms of the new building. The design also eased the steep grade transition from the high terrace level surrounding the residence down to the pond and meadow level by building a series of steps to the lawn terraces. The landscape design also provides the clients with more private outdoor courtyards and living spaces. The larger of these two courtyard gardens extends from the kitchen and screen porch wings of the house towards a long thin pool. The pool ends at a granite wall which encloses the space. A thin vertical opening in the wall reveals views to a slice of the meadow landscape beyond. An adjustable-flow scupper drops re-circulated water back into the pool. The long side of the pool remains open for viewing the pond.

Collaborators
Adolfo Perez Architects

Photography
Charles Mayer