Diagonal Passage in Greenport, New York by Studio a/b Architects

Article source: Studio a/b Architects

Awarded AIA Peconic  Jurors Award for Architecture 2009
Platinum rating in the LEED for Homes program 2011

Responding to a long skinny lot (50 ft wide x 166 ft deep) in a village, this project explores the openness between inside/outside spaces using a linear format.  A diagonal wall running from the southwest to the northeast divides the site into “dwelling” and “garden” zones.  The interior space uses the widest possible width at the western end.  The larger, backyard garden is on the eastern end.

South elevation viewed from southwest (Image Courtesy Tony Holmes)

• Architects: Studio a/b Architects
• Project: Diagonal Passage
• Location: Greenport, New York
• Contractor: Chris Kyprianou
• Structure: SIP
• Exterior Wall: White Cedar shingles prestained, Red Cedar siding stained
• Interior Wall: GWB painted, Pine plywood factory stained
• Interior Floor: Stranded Bamboo flooring
• Site Area: 8,310 sq. ft.
• Floor Area: 2,380 sq. ft.
• Bibliography: Design through Dialogue, John Wiley & Sons, 2010
• Software used: AutoCAD

West facade (Image Courtesy Tony Holmes)

As opposed to a more conventional, rectangular plan opening mainly toward the back, this plan, with its diagonal wall, provides multi-directional openness to all interior spaces.  The diagonal wall guides a sequential rhythm of changing scales from grand to intimate. In contrast to the diagonal south wall with its large openings, the north wall, with its minimally sized windows, houses functions including closets, cabinets, duct spaces, art presentation shelves, kitchen, laundry, and bathroom.  Pockets doors, stored perpendicularly to the north side, slide out to control the length of the diagonal wall, dividing the space to allow varied uses and levels of privacy.   Stepped presentation shelves follow the staircase, leading one’s eye up to the spaces above.

South elevation viewed from southeast (Image Courtesy Tony Holmes)

The project uses SIP (structural insulated panels) construction, which provides superior insulation and a tight envelope. The shed roof slopes toward the south to accommodate a future solar panel installation.  To minimize the building volume, the roof slopes down diagonally at both eastern and western ends.  Since the panels are factory cut and beveled, SIP construction is appropriate for this single-sloped roof with delicate angles in both plan and section.

Southern view from the entry deck (Image Courtesy Tony Holmes)

PROGRAM: 2,400 SF+/- house in a village setting, open plan with two bedrooms, two studies, a greenhouse, and a detached garden shed.  Most functions should be accommodated on the ground floor in preparation for aging inhabitants.  Energy efficient “green” building, uses environmentally friendly materials, meets Energy Star, and LEED for Homes program

Living east view (Image Courtesy Tony Holmes)

Dining (Image Courtesy Tony Holmes)

South deck viewed from the east, perspective emphasizes the distance to the street

Guest room viewing southeast; attached greenhouse is beyond the doors

Attached greenhouse viewed from the yard (Image Courtesy Tony Holmes)

Guest room view toward west (Image Courtesy studio a/b architects)

Roof deck toward south beyond the Diagonal Wall railing (Image Courtesy studio a/b architects)

Tags: Greenport, New York

Categories: Autocad, Farm House

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