Sited along one of the most prestigious streets in Southampton, Halsey Neck provides unobstructed 270 degree views of Halsey Neck Pond and the Atlantic ocean beyond. Although the site is generous in size, the buildable footprint is restricted by wetlands on all sides. With the existing tennis court to remain, the allowable footprint although wide on approach, narrows down to a slender extrusion at the rear.
Located in a FEMA AE13 flood zone, the first floor needed to be elevated approximately 12 feet above natural grade. In order to mitigate the need for a monumental exterior stair, soil from the excavation will be repurposed to bring grade up along the southeast perimeter of the house, allowing for a gradual landscape walkway to be the arrival experience.
Entry is notched into the façade and separates public spaces to the east from the private bedroom wing to the west. As one approaches, the 11,000 square foot residence, they unknowingly ascend to the first-floor located above the flood zone. The private suites are separated to the west from the public spaces to the east. Yet all receive stunning water views. Connected by a wood screened, glass link, the interior living and dining spaces merge with the outdoor terraces, pool and cabana to the north east defining the limit of construction.
The second floor provides ocean views for the master suite located to the south and connected by a bridge to the remaining suites on the floor. A powerwashed, cedar rainscreen and dark bronze aluminum framed windows allow the home to meld with the natural landscape.