Weston Residence is a modern single family home designed by Specht Harpman Architects, nestled in a valley adjacent to the Saugatuck River in Weston, Connecticut. The elements of the 2,400 square foot house engage the site in a way that purposefully blurs the transition and distinction between the built and natural environment.

As the house is approached from a road that begins high on a cliff above, the roofscape—or fifth facade— becomes a critical element of the design.  Terraced planes planted with year-round, region-specific succulents step down the hill.  Bedrooms project out into these roof gardens, giving a feeling of being fully immersed in the landscape.  The planted roofs are also integral to the high-performance building envelope.

Interior and exterior spaces are joined through views, portals, and material continuity.  A glass-backed fireplace provides an elegant surprise.  Like other glass houses, the landscape becomes the “decoration” for the rooms, playing with transparency during the day and reflectivity at night.

Specht Harpman was founded in 1995 by partners Scott Specht and Louise Harpman, who began working together while classmates at the Yale School of Architecture. A small company with rigorous standards for modern design, the firm’s award-winning work includes commercial, institutional and residential projects, as well as custom furniture. The firm maintains offices in New York City and Austin, Texas.

Photos: Taggart Sorensen