Located on the north shore bluff of Long Island Sound, the Sound Beach House underwent an extension/renovation designed as a modern addition to the original 1974 ranch style house. A major challenge to building in this environment was bluff erosion as high waves, wind, groundwater and surface runoff caused significant loss of land to the sea. Erosion control measures were necessary to allow for the proposed addition and to prevent significant property damage and potential loss of both existing and new structures. The focus was to shield the home from the elements while maximizing light and water views.

To minimize erosion, the entire roof was sloped in the opposite direction of the bluff. Rain water which is now directed away from the bluff is collected by gutters and re-directed by pipes to a water flo-well that is located landward and away from the bluff. To capture the stunning views, the entry foyer of the house features floating stairs, providing dramatic views of the ocean and the drop of the bluff. The stairs also act as a bridge between the old house and the new addition. Large windows on the north façade and a glass sliding door open up to an extended mid-level deck along the north-south stairs axis.