The site on the north face of a steep hill facing the Catskills presents both magnificent views and environmental challenges. To manage the heavy rain and runoff down the slope, the studio is raised on concrete pilotis and has an extensive green roof. "Gargoyle” gutter spouts send excess water into landscape and gravel swales.
A retaining wall of stones gathered from the site directs the water flow, and defines the change in elevation between house and studio.