Nestled beneath a canopy of trees in Cornwall, Connecticut, a striking new residence emerges, a testament to architectural ingenuity and harmonious coexistence with nature. Designed by Desai Chia Architecture, the 'Ledge House' not only embraces the rich history of the Connecticut Valley but also navigates the challenge of an unconventional neighbor - a prehistoric 'glacial erratic,' a boulder deposited during the formation of the Appalachian Mountains hundreds of thousands of years ago.
Designing Amidst Nature's Wonders
The vision for the 'Ledge House' was born from the clients' desire to create a home that resonates with the historical essence of the Connecticut Valley while prioritizing sustainable design practices. The journey commenced with the removal of an existing cabin on the site, utilizing its foundations to not only save costs but also reduce construction waste. The program for the new residence builds upon and streamlines the original cabin's footprint, drawing the house closer to the imposing boulder, creating a symbiotic relationship with the natural surroundings.
Design Inspiration
The architectural form of the 'Ledge House' draws inspiration from the indigenous barns of the area, seamlessly blending with the historic West Cornwall Covered Bridge nearby. Desai Chia Architecture employed a clever structural system, leveraging balloon framing techniques. This approach ingeniously integrates beams, walls, sheathing, and a meticulously calibrated nailing pattern, allowing the structure to function as a unified diaphragm. The result is a visually uncluttered interior with open vaulted ceilings and clean planar surfaces, eliminating the need for exposed cross bracing.
(Photo : paul warchol)
Uniting Indoor and Outdoor Living
The heart of the home lies in the living room, dining room, and kitchen, forming a central nucleus connected by a large breezeway. Positioned strategically to capture breathtaking views of the valley, cross-ventilating breezes, and the majestic boulder, this space serves as a communal hub. Owners and guests seamlessly merge in the lofted, open area, connecting to both a forest terrace and a valley terrace, blurring the boundaries between indoor and outdoor living.
Masterful Bedroom Placement and Airy Finishes
At one end of the 'Ledge House,' a master bedroom suite provides a private retreat, while two guest bedrooms occupy the opposite end. The intentional lightness and airiness of the interior finishes contribute to the home's overall feeling of openness. Intimate havens are created while showcasing the vast beauty of the surrounding landscape through a well-balanced arrangement of living areas.
The 'Ledge House's' exterior is covered in shou sugi ban siding, a unique finish that highlights the building's iconic shape while also providing resistance to rot and bugs. This well-considered cladding decision enhances the architectural masterpiece's aesthetic coherence while also giving the structure a layer of resilience.
Desai Chia Architecture's 'Ledge House' emerges not merely as a residence but as a living symphony, composed in collaboration with nature's wonders. From its respectful coexistence with a prehistoric boulder to its design inspired by indigenous architecture, every facet of this contemporary haven reflects a deep understanding of history, sustainability, and spatial harmony. As 'Ledge House' stands elegantly within the Connecticut Valley, it embodies a vision where architectural innovation and natural beauty converge, creating a home that resonates with the past while boldly embracing the future.
