This vacation cottage in Montauk is seamlessly integrated with its natural surroundings, reflecting a deep respect for nature. The property originally consisted of two separate plots sold simultaneously—a rarity in this area—which the homeowners purchased together.
Instead of constructing a large, single residence, Robert Young Architects (RYA) designed two distinct buildings: one serves as the main house, while the other accommodates guests and functions as a garage. The space left between the two structures prevents them from appearing overly large or ostentatious, aiming to create a modest home that contrasts sharply with the grandeur of a traditional mansion.
Both buildings serve as living spaces, indoors and outdoors, designed to maximize views and capture the summer sun and breeze. While Montauk Lake stands as the primary focal point, the design also incorporates numerous shaded eaves that complement the expansive water views.
The main living area is located on the ground floor, featuring glass walls and oversized sliding doors that blur the lines between indoor and outdoor living. The boundary between the home and nature is softened, further enhanced by the planting of native coastal vegetation between the buildings and the water, fostering a harmonious dialogue between architecture and the landscape.
The master suite’s living space is nestled within the landscape, while the three guest rooms sit above the garage and boathouse. These elevated guest rooms offer sweeping views to the north and west, presenting a completely different perspective from that of the master suite.
Although the experiences vary, a unifying element ties the design together: the choice of materials. Natural materials were selected with their aging process in mind. The broad, rough cedar boards on the exterior are left untreated to weather naturally, gradually turning a driftwood silver under the sun.
The raw zinc roof will develop a mottled green patina over time, while the durable copper hardware is designed to withstand the humid coastal environment. As time passes, these materials will enrich the building’s character and charm.
Inside, the design blends modern and rustic styles. An exposed steel frame supports large energy-efficient solar glass panels, lending a sense of lightness to the structure. This framework upholds a series of thick, solid wood roof trusses painted white, creating an airy yet sturdy feel.
The interior palette combines neutral whites and light wood tones with darker accents, achieving a serene but lively atmosphere. The mix of smooth and textured painted wood boards, handcrafted Moroccan tiles, and European white oak floors enhances the natural, primitive ambiance, reinforcing the seamless connection between the building and its environment.
Design Drawings:
Master Plan
First Floor Plan
Project Information:
Architect: Robert Young Architects
Location: Montauk, United States
Category: Independent Residential Buildings
Lead Architects: Robert Young, John Buckley, Justin Blejer
Building Area: 787 square meters
Project Year: 2016
Photographer: Michael Moran
Manufacturers: Element Tech Lighting, GM Lighting, Bega, Elkay, Thermador, Sub-Zero, American Standard, B-K Lighting, Duravit, BlueStar, Lacava, Bosch, Flos
Project Team: Satoi Akimoto, Viktoria Rauter, Robert Deacon
Structural Engineering: Becker Engineering, PC
Civil Engineering: D.B. Bennett P.E., PC
Mechanical Engineering and Energy Efficiency: Zeroenergy Design
General Contractor: Men At Work Construction Corp
Landscape Architect: Laguardia Design
Landscape Contractor: James C. Grimes Land Design
Acoustic and Visual: Audio Interiors
Lighting Design: Tirschwell & Co
Main Residential Area: 430 square meters
Guest Residential Area: 357 square meters
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