CHINA POND PH
CHINA POND PH Carmel, NY
River Architects was engaged to reimagine a beloved family retreat in a private lake community in Carmel, New York. While the existing house offered charm and expansive lake views, it suffered from low ceilings, energy inefficiency, and a series of incongruent additions. After careful evaluation, it was clear that a new build would better serve the clients’ needs—both for everyday comfort and future resilience.
The new design embraces the site’s wooded landscape and lakeside orientation while meeting the technical demands of Passive building performance. In 2023, the home achieved Phius Design Certification, reflecting a careful balance of form, comfort, and energy efficiency. Solar orientation, thermal envelope design, and thoughtful material selection contributed to the home’s low-energy footprint.
The final structure recalls Adirondack cabin traditions with clean modern lines and warm natural finishes. A separate two-car garage provides flexible living space above, enhancing the sense of a self-contained, retreat-like compound. Inside the main house, a three-bedroom layout was intentionally chosen to avoid septic expansion. The primary suite includes a spacious bedroom, spa-like bath finished in tadelakt plaster, and a lake-facing office with custom millwork and large windows.
Work-from-home functionality was a key client priority, and dedicated office spaces were incorporated into both the main house and the garage loft. Throughout, the home is organized around views of the lake—whether from the open-plan kitchen, upper deck, or the lower-level covered patio with fireplace. A central stone chimney anchors the indoor and outdoor gathering spaces, including fireplaces on both decks and a wood stove in the living room.
The lower level introduces a playful tone, with warm wood and concrete finishes, a sauna, wet bar, and recreation space. A bold felt-wrapped wall, accented in red, offers functional storage with a sculptural presence. Utility spaces were centrally located for convenience and efficiency, rounding out a retreat that’s both deeply personal and highly sustainable.
Project photos coming soon.