Architects and Interiors: Lake Flato Architects
Area: 4206 ft²
Year: 2023
Photographs: Joe Fletcher, Dean Kaufman
Construction: Prefabricated timber elements
Town: Peconic
Country: United States
North Fork, a residential building designed by Lake Flato Architects in Peconic on Long Island, encapsulates a serene retreat composed of three barn-like structures. These buildings are distinguished by their cedar wraps and prefabricated timber constructions. Situated within a quiet agrarian setting, the project leverages the rustic aesthetics of local barns and harbors, creating a cohesive architectural narrative deeply connected to its natural and cultural environment.
American firm Lake Flato Architects has finished constructing a family retreat on Long Island called North Fork. This serene getaway comprises three barn-style structures enveloped in cedar and built using prefabricated timber. The project, known as North Fork, is located in the tranquil town of Peconic and derives its name from its position on the North Fork of Long Island.
This retreat is approximately two hours by car from New York City, positioned in a region celebrated for its family-owned farms and vineyards, as well as its profound maritime connections. Lake Flato Architects, which is based in Texas and whose founders were recently honored with the AIA Gold Medal, drew inspiration from the local vernacular of barns, farms, and coastal elements for the design of the residence.
Set atop a sandy dune, the complex includes three primary structures—a main house, a utility/studio building, and a guest house—all arranged to create a central courtyard. The architects describe the trio of buildings as forming a loosely organized courtyard amidst the gentle dunes, surrounded by trees.
Each structure showcases a barn-like aesthetic, with dark-stained cedar exteriors and sharply pitched, metal-clad roofs. Internally, the design incorporates extensive wood finishes, including white-washed pine, ebonized oak, reclaimed heart pine, and plywood.
The structural framing of the house employed timber, with numerous elements prefabricated offsite to streamline the construction process. To minimize building time and enhance the craftsmanship of the wooden structure, the structural components were pre-made in New Hampshire—known for its expertise in wood construction and transported by barge to Orient Point.
The delivery of the main portion of the house by barge was particularly suitable for a location closely linked to the water. The house is designed for year-round use, providing a nature-focused retreat for a family from Brooklyn.
The primary residence, referred to as the “living barn,” features a long, rectangular floor plan and covers an area of 4,206 square feet (391 square meters). The building’s layout divides into a public zone with a kitchen, dining area, and living room on one side, and private sleeping quarters on the other.
A standout feature in the public space is a concrete hearth finished with plaster, while the kitchen boasts oak cabinetry and soapstone countertops. In the warmer months, the design allows for the opening of windows to welcome cooling breezes from the bay, whereas in colder weather, the house can be sealed to protect against the harsh coastal climate.
The architects note that during winter, the compact and cozy house provides a comforting space to observe the stormy weather from the bay. A pathway links the main house to the utility/studio barn, which includes a garage and workout area on the lower level, with an office space above. The guest house, positioned further from the main structures, is a converted carriage house now offering three bedrooms and additional living space. A swimming pool is also included on the property, adding to the recreational amenities.
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Project Location
Address: Peconic, New York, United States
Location is for general reference and may represent a city or country, not necessarily a precise address.
