This Modern Coulter House in Medfield, MA addition above an existing structure expands the experience of the house without physically making it bigger. The modern interior ‘ness’ of the existing stone ground level is juxtaposed against the ‘exterior-ness’ of the new second level: The light-weight and light-filled spaces of the new second floor are separated into 3 separate pavilions. This modern home design fragmentation allows framed views to the surrounding landscape and new captured roof-gardens that both connect and separate the rooms.

Modern Coulter House dusk

Modern Coulter House bamboo garden

Modern Coulter House seams

Modern Coulter House double height

Through energy efficient passive techniques including stack ventilation and the strategic use of overhangs, the need for mechanical summer cooling is eliminated. In the winter the low-winter sun is harnessed to heat the thermally massive floor.