This single-family home in Hurley, NY is situated on a forested site protected by a conservation easement—land designated to preserve the habitat of regionally significant species such as the northern cricket frog, long-eared bat, and small-footed bat. From the outset, the project was driven by the family’s commitment to environmental stewardship and a desire to live in close relationship with the land. The design began with a fundamental question: how can we reduce the carbon footprint of new construction while honoring ecological values? 

The first decision was to minimize the building’s footprint—only building what was necessary, rather than maximizing square footage. The structure uses pre-fabricated, straw-insulated panels from New Frameworks, who sources straw and wood locally and fabricates the panels in Vermont. For flooring, the family milled white pine harvested directly from the site.  

To reduce site impact, the house is lifted above grade and supported on helical piles—eliminating the need for a concrete foundation or excavation. An exterior structural frame supports the home while allowing the mechanical systems to be tucked discreetly below. Passive solar design informed the building orientation, with large south-facing openings to capture sunlight in winter and reduce energy consumption. 

Natural materials continue inside the home, where mineral-based paints and lime plaster offer a non-toxic, breathable interior environment—aligning aesthetics with the deeper intention to build responsibly and live lightly on the land.