CREW CT 2025 Blue Ribbon Brochure

Perch & Hollow Residence

North Haven, CT

The Perch & Hollow residence exemplifies harmony between architecture and nature. Nestled within a dense, wooded landscape, this contemporary home dissolves the boundaries between indoors and outdoors, creating a living experience deeply rooted in its surroundings. A defining feature is its cantilevered living space, extending outward like a natural extension of the terrain. Expansive floor-to-ceiling glazing wraps the upper level, offering uninterrupted views of the forest. The structure maintains a minimal footprint while maximizing engagement with the topography, emerging from the earth rather than imposing upon it. An innovative aspect is its near invisibility from the road. A landscaped roof blends seamlessly into the terrain, preserving privacy while ensuring minimal visual impact. The home reveals itself only to the neighboring residence at the lower end of the site. Form and Function: At the heart of the design is the interplay between the "Perch" and the "Hollow." The cantilevered upper level, the Perch, immerses occupants in breathtaking scenery, while the lower-level Hollow serves as a sanctuary for rest and rejuvenation. An enclosed outdoor courtyard reinforces the connection to nature, allowing natural light and fresh air to penetrate deep into the home. The upper-level Perch is a celebration of openness. Floor-to-ceiling glazing and motorized windows blur interior and exterior boundaries. This level houses primary living spaces—kitchen, dining, and lounge—taking full advantage of its elevated position. Hovering above the landscape, it fosters a deep connection with nature through changing seasons. The lower-level Hollow provides a retreat with bedrooms in a cocoon-like setting, ensuring tranquility. A sauna reinforces the wellness-oriented design, offering a therapeutic escape. Hidden utility and storage spaces, integrated into the concrete retaining wall, contribute to the architectural dialogue between solidity and lightness. Impact and Challenges: While a private residence, Perch & Hollow exemplifies site-sensitive contemporary design. It challenges conventional luxury homes by prioritizing subtlety over scale, fostering regional appreciation for sustainable, nature-integrated architecture. Site constraints shaped the design. The uneven topography required a thoughtful response, allowing the terrain to dictate the home’s form. Strategic placement of exterior utilities preserves visual serenity. Engineering the cantilevered structure demanded precision to maintain lightness and openness. Zoning and environmental considerations influenced design decisions, such as integrating a landscaped roof for insulation and biodiversity. Sustainability and Wellness: Sustainability and wellness are core to Perch & Hollow. The landscaped roof mitigates heat, improves insulation, and manages stormwater. Extensive glazing maximizes natural light and passive solar heating, while motorized windows enhance ventilation, reducing mechanical cooling needs. Non-toxic, high-performance materials and calming color palettes foster relaxation and mental clarity. The sauna enhances physical and mental rejuvenation, reinforcing the home’s commitment to holistic living. The lower-level Hollow’s stillness promotes restful sleep, creating a true sanctuary. Perch & Hollow is a study in balance, seamlessly integrating with its wooded surroundings. It redefines luxury by emphasizing harmony with nature, spatial mindfulness, and occupant well-being. The project sets a new standard for site sensitive residential architecture, demonstrating how design can enhance both environment and quality of life.

Owner — N/A

Project Size — 2,350 square feet

Project Team — Patriquin Architects, MHAI, CES, SLR, Babbidge Construction, Gorecki Design Associates, Christensen Landscaping, Opus, Technolutions

20 Blue Ribbon Awards 2025