The Weston Residence nestles in a valley adjacent to the Saugatuck River. In plan and section, the elements of the 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.