A children’s treehouse inspired the major redesign of this ranch-style house by Stephen Moser Architect, located on the western edge of Saxon Woods Park in Mamaroneck, New York. Originally built by a developer in the late 1950s, the ranch-style residence faced away from the wooded park. Several additions, including an indoor pool, further obstructed the park views.

The treehouse, which the clients had built some years ago for their grandchildren, sits on stilts among the trees, and guided ideas about the redesigned house’s silhouette, orientation, interior spaces, and materials.

Highlights of the 6,600 square foot redesign include a new covered entrance supported by two tree-like steel columns; a single large sloping roof that unifies the north side of the house and opens up the office and kitchen to the park; a new three-sided glass family room facing park and pool; the addition of a second-floor master bedroom suite with treehouse views; and the thematic use of wood slats in the detailing of both exterior and interior.