Perched on a bluff overlooking Block Island Sound, the property is a flag lot at the edge of a new subdivision, bordered on three sides by water, wetlands, and woods. The client asked for a design with a minimal impact on the pristine landscape, maximum exposure to the views, and all the amenities of a year-round vacation home.

The basic requirement of each space was considered integrally with the effects of sunlight, breezes, and views. The house was conceived as a lens, continually framing and magnifying the subtle changes in the surrounding environment.

The L-shaped plan is divided into public and private wings. Two indoor/outdoor zones on two levels define the public areas. The upstairs zone includes the kitchen, dining area, living area, and a deck. The downstairs public zone includes the family room, outdoor living room, pool, and sun-bathing deck. The two-story bedroom wing has four modest bedrooms facing the views, two of which convert to a single room for guests with children.