Photo credit: www.architecturaldigest.com

Transforming a Hudson Valley Retreat: A Case for Sustainable Design

In an era where climate change poses significant challenges, the importance of responsible land management is increasingly evident. This is especially true for the owner of a picturesque 170-acre estate in Hudson Valley, New York. Nestled among towering white pines and hemlocks, the property features a serene private lake and several charming stone-and-wood cottages dating back to the 1930s. “Prioritizing sustainability is not only logical but also beneficial in the long run, both for our finances and the environment,” the homeowner expresses. “Our family is dedicated to a healthy lifestyle, and we wanted our home to embody that commitment.”

To align their retreat with sustainable principles, the family turned to Brigid Walsh, the founder of 100 Miles North, an environmental design studio. Walsh emphasizes that environmental design takes a holistic approach, prioritizing ecological considerations across all elements—from the surrounding landscape to interior spaces. “We focus on tailoring our designs to meet the unique needs of each project rather than adhering to a one-size-fits-all solution,” she notes, drawing on her background as a former executive at Vogue.

The cottages, laden with items lacking sentimental value, were in dire need of a refresh. A thoughtful decluttering process ensued; after auctioning off selected items, the remainder was donated to Habitat for Humanity, demonstrating a commitment to minimizing waste. Following this decluttering, Walsh collaborated with MK Workshop, a firm known for creating intentional interiors that avoid mass-produced furnishings, to reconnect the refined interiors with the surrounding landscape and the cottages’ classic architecture.

In the main house’s living room, MK Workshop’s designers skillfully restored the worn wood paneling using a color called Raisin by Sherwin-Williams, a deep hue that resonates with the original mahogany finish. The interior blends vintage finds with sustainable purchases, with a chandelier retained from the original decor that complements the room’s cozy ambiance. Vintage pieces like a bentwood cane rocking chair, two black leather Danish lounge chairs, and a Maison Regain elm coffee table enhance the room’s authenticity and character.

This thoughtful renovation reflects a broader movement towards environmental stewardship and mindful living. By emphasizing sustainability in both design and functionality, this Hudson Valley retreat stands as a model for how modern living can harmoniously coexist with nature.

Source
www.architecturaldigest.com