A narrow triangular site on a sandy bluff of a North Carolina barrier island, considered unbuildable by the local authorities, was selected for a vacation home by a young couple. The design was to embody the airy and casual nature of the dunes, and its waterfront and windswept setting.

A planned sequence of experiences, starting at the exterior stair and “bridge”, culminates in spectacular views across Roanoke Sound from the top floor. A nonstandard layout situates the main living spaces on the upper floor to increase vistas, with bedrooms located on the more private middle floor. The ground level, prone to possible flooding, contains minimal utilitarian functions. Because of the location, special structural precautions were implemented to resist hurricane forces in excess of 110 mph.

Steven J. Suski, design architect