Robert Gurney Architect designed this amazing woodland home, surrounded by rolling hills and open fields in Rappahannock County, Virginia. This new build is set on a sprawling 24 acre property, perched on a hillside overlooking a meadow at the base of the woodlands. The dwelling was organized as a series of volumes, designed to maximize views of the distant Blue Ridge Mountains.
The structure was designed to define more intimate outdoor livings spaces, between the house and the edge of the forest. The linear design enables most of the living spaces to take advantage of the mountain views while offering fluid access to an outdoor terrace, swimming pool and manicured lawn. The double story living and dining area features floor-t0-ceiling windows at either end, framing the mountain views from the terrace.
“The rigorous, refined and geometric forms of the building are designed in sharp contrast to the undulating, natural landscape,” states the architects. “The contrast is intended to magnify the beauty of the site while allowing the house to provide a framework to view the landscape.” These views are integral to the overall design of the home and how it is orientated on the site. The volumes consist of material elements of glass, wood, stone and fiber cement panels. The mix of materials creates a harmonious and serene aesthetic.
The structure boasts a geothermal HVAC system, energy-efficient appliances, wall and ceiling infrastructure with maximum insulation, a rain-screen cladding system, extensive daylighting and solar-sensored shades were installed to reduce the consumption of fossil fuel. Large operable windows and doors were installed to provide natural ventilation.
What We Love: This woodland home offers exquisite contemporary details surrounded by a pristine and tranquil setting. Proportion, texture and natural light helps to organize the structure, while adding visual stimulation. At the same time, the composition of the home is refined and complex. Most notably, this structure offers viewpoints throughout to blur indoor-outdoor boundaries, while capturing the magnificent surroundings.
Readers, please share with us your thoughts on the overall design of this project. Would you consider this your idea of a dream home? Let us know why or why not in the comments below!
Above: Interior living spaces were designed with intricate details, a tranquil color palette and minimal design aesthetic. Expansive views in all directions allows the landscape to be the primary sensory experience.
Photos: Maxwell MacKenzie
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