A two phase project beginning with a 2,200 sf three story wood framed passive solar house set on a sloping open field overlooking a small private lake in northeast Pennsylvania. The subsequent owner of the house sought to double the size of the original house by adding a new formal dining room, formal entry, mud room, study and second floor bedroom and master suite along with a new detached garage.

The house massing and architectural character is reminiscent of the local farm house vernacular architecture through the use of simple gable roofs, reverse gable dormers and a series of nested grand gables on the south elevation. The house sits above a sweeping south terrace/deck with natural stone piers, wood deck and infill lattice panels. Through the use of multiple window openings, the house opens up to the site and it’s prevailing winds, the sun and the distant views..

The exterior palette of material includes clear coated red cedar wood siding and stained trim, architectural shingles and painted architectural wood columns at the various entry points.

The interior of the house is organized around a massive masonry fireplace that rises through an internal central two story space with adjacent stair and balconies. Through the use of abundant windows and skylights the interior spaces are filled with natural light and air making for a snug and cozy environment.