Designed for a family with four younger children, it was important that the house feel comfortable, open, and that family activities be encouraged. The study is directly accessible and visible to the family room in order that these would not be isolated from one another.Primary living areas and decks are oriented to the south, opening the spacious interior to views of the yard and wooded flood plain beyond. Southern exposure provides ample internal light, shaded by trees and deep overhangs; electronically controlled shades block low afternoon sun. Clerestory glazing offers light above the second floor hall serving the bedrooms and upper foyer. Stone and various woods are utilized throughout the exterior and interior providing continuity and a unified natural setting.A swimming pool, second garage and courtyard are located to the east and out of the primary view, but with convenient access to the screened porch and kitchen.The plan is organized with a gallery hall creating an east/west axis on both the first and second floors. At one end a large circular stair is adjacent to the entrance foyer, and at the opposite end another open stair, thus creating five separate zones:- Master Bedroom/Dressing/Bath/and Office Suite- Kitchen/Family Area/Screened Porch- Living/Dining- Second Floor Bedrooms/Childrens Study- Lower level Family Play area, Home Theater, and Guest Bedroom