In the serene setting of Sag Harbor, New York, Bates Masi + Architects have created a remarkable guest house known as Morris Cove. This architectural marvel is nestled on a narrow peninsula surrounded by water views. The project, completed in August 2023, spans 3,325 square feet.
The house is organized into a series of five discrete pavilions that offer both intimacy and openness. These pavilions adapt to environmental conditions, creating unique experiences throughout the year.
Design Solution: A Harmony with Nature
The design of Morris Cove was deeply inspired by the owners’ commitment to environmental stewardship. Bates Masi + Architects aimed to improve hydrology, reduce erosion, and mitigate flood risk through their innovative design.
The house is organized into five pavilions with an overarching roof structure, each pavilion containing the private functions of the house. These pavilions are centered around courtyard rain gardens, which play a crucial role in water management.
Adaptive Spaces
The spaces between the pavilions are designed to be adaptable based on the environmental conditions. This adaptability allows for unique experiences that change with the weather and seasons.
Pocketing glass doors offer the pavilions intimacy. When open, public spaces merge with the exterior deck, transforming pavilions into cabins and halls into connective boardwalks. This seamless integration of indoor and outdoor spaces is a hallmark of the design.
Environmental Considerations
The courtyards at Morris Cove are not only aesthetic features but also functional elements that manage rainwater. In light rain, water trickles down the copper siding, creating patina patterns over time. During heavier showers, rain arcs down into the gardens in dramatic streams.
The courtyards’ foundations are formed by concrete retaining wall rings on piles elevated three feet above grade. This reduces the house’s footprint and minimizes the floodwater it displaces.
Water Management and Erosion Control
Layers of soil, gravel, and sand within the courtyards act as rainwater storage and filtering devices. This system prevents erosion and improves groundwater quality, showcasing how architecture can harmoniously integrate with natural processes.
The elevated design of the house, sitting on piers, further reduces its impact on the surrounding environment.
Structure and Materials
The roof structure of Morris Cove sits atop the pavilions, creating higher ceiling heights in the interstitial spaces. The exterior walls of these spaces are operable glass doors that disappear into the walls when weather permits, dissolving the boundary between inside and out.
The use of Ipe siding, decking, and copper soffits continues through these indoor-outdoor public spaces, further eliminating the distinction between exterior and interior.
Interior and Exterior Finishes
The interior finishes of Morris Cove are as meticulously designed as its exterior. The cabinetwork and custom woodwork are crafted by Custom Millwork, while Decolime Plaster is used for paints and stains.
The resilient flooring features oak floors, adding warmth and durability to the interiors. The lighting system includes Q Tran LED for ambient lighting, DGA downlights, and task lighting by Allied Maker and Juniper Design.
Project Team and Collaboration
The success of Morris Cove is a result of the collaborative efforts of a dedicated project team. Led by principal Paul Masi and partner in charge Aaron Weil, the design team included Xiao Lin, Jackson Bower, and Victoria Pryor.
Bates Masi + Architects also took on the role of interior designer, ensuring a cohesive vision throughout the project.
Engineering and Consulting
Structural engineering was handled by Steven Maresca, while landscape architecture was provided by Stimson. The landscape installation and maintenance were carried out by Summerhill Landscape Inc., and Men at Work Construction Corp served as the general contractor.
The roofing was done by Soprema, and windows and doors were provided by Schüco. Custom wood doors and hardware were supplied by Merit Metal and Simonswerk Hinges.
Plumbing and Lighting
The plumbing fixtures at Morris Cove include faucets and showerheads by Watermark. They also have custom basins and tubs by Signature Hardware. Toilets are provided by Toto, ensuring high-quality and reliable fixtures throughout the house.
The exterior lighting is by DG Lights. It has a dimming system and other lighting controls by Lutron. These allow for customizable lighting scenarios that enhance the living experience.