Jule Pond’s architectural siting was derived from an early collaboration between the landscape architect and architect. The dichotomy of natural form and built structure entwine at a site that is both environmentally sound and aesthetically innovative.
In the floodplain setting of a vacant farm field, development had to be critically sensitive to the site’s high-water table and proximity to a freshwater pond. Local code, along with the Federal Emergency Management Agency required the new house be raised more than ten feet above existing grade. To root the house into the land, grades were significantly raised, protecting the building from future storms, and presenting the opportunity for the designers to form a dramatic sculptural-like composition. The architectural graphic motifs of the façade are extended throughout the landscape. At the front door, the entry is enhanced by a series of linear steps that echo a bar-code-like set of fins on the brise-soleil, their geometries juxtaposed against a native maritime meadow.
The team’s treatment of the landscape focused on mitigating the poor farm soils to serve as a model for local redevelopment of waterfront agricultural land. A broad buffer of native shrubs and grasses were planted between the house and the pond to act as a filter for storm water runoff and protect the pond’s sensitive ecosystem.
A sunken terrace and fire pit are gathering spaces that overlook the nearby farm fields, connecting to the site’s agricultural heritage. The vanishing-edge swimming pool was placed to the side of the house to leave the vista of the rolling maritime meadow uninterrupted.
This project exemplifies contemporary design while honoring the site’s agrarian roots and environmental context. Jule Pond finds synergy at the intersection of sensitive development and innovative design.
Architecture offices involved in the design: Blaze Makoid Architecture
Location: Southampton, New York
Design year: 2017-2021
Year Completed: 2021
