2019
Sanctuary Design Group
Residential
Rockland County,
New York, US
In conceiving this contemporary home, our studio sought to create a new classic—a residence that honors the architectural traditions of American family life while speaking a distinctly modern language. We envisioned a home that could withstand the beautiful chaos of a growing family, a place of both elegant formality and unpretentious comfort. This is a design born from a dialogue between eras, where the familiar silhouette of the neighborhood is respected, yet reinterpreted with a thoughtful, forward-looking purpose.
At the heart of our approach was the belief that a home for a contemporary family must be both a haven for individuals and a stage for shared life. The classic front porch and welcoming entryway pay homage to a sense of community and gathering, establishing the home as a place of connection. In powerful contrast, the central two-story gable, with its commanding, mullioned window wall, serves as the home’s anchor—a beacon of light that opens the interior to the sky and draws the landscape inward. This is a design that provides a sense of deep-rooted stability on the exterior and an expansive, light-filled modernity within.
Light is the animating force of this home. The soaring central window wall is not merely a feature; it is a dynamic element that changes the character of the space throughout the day. It creates a voluminous, communal heart for the home, where sunlight floods the main living areas and moonlight offers a quiet, contemplative glow. This strategic use of natural light ensures that even as the family grows and the home’s purpose evolves—from a space of play to one of quiet study—the environment remains bright, inviting, and deeply connected to the world outside its walls.
The material palette was chosen for its refined durability. The home’s classic siding, thoughtful trim, and commanding brick chimney create a texture of lasting quality, giving the residence a timeless appeal that will age with grace. The interior spaces are designed with a similar mindset, using a curated selection of materials that are both beautiful and resilient.
This is a home where finishes are meant to be lived on, not just looked at. The mood is one of sophisticated comfort and purposeful function—a sanctuary designed for the profound, beautiful rhythm of family life.
Note: This project was completed by the author while a member of the design team at Eric Osborn, Architect.