Off Grid No. 2

At the end of a long dirt road winding toward the South Shore, you’ll find a hidden oasis. Set on a sprawling waterfront property, this off-grid family compound was designed specifically to respond to its surroundings. The family – dividing their time between the Vineyard and London – fell immediately in love with the wild and remote landscape. They wanted a retreat. A fully self-sufficient energy system was the natural choice to facilitate the independence and self suffiency they desired. The majority of the home is situated for sweeping views through the trees and over the pond beyond, while bedrooms are distanced and nestled between the woods and the meadow for quiet and privacy. A screen wall divides the Stair Hall from the living spaces, allowing morning light to flood into rooms with westward views.

Aerial view of a house surrounded by trees, near a body of water.
Modern house with wooden siding, large windows, and a screened porch overlooking a rectangular outdoor pool surrounded by slate tiles. Two lounge chairs with pink-striped towels are by the pool.
Modern kitchen with wooden cabinets, large island, and bar stools
Modern living room with a cream-colored sectional sofa, pink cushions, and a round leather ottoman. A wood-burning stove is in the corner, near large windows overlooking a forest view. The wall features a large artwork of a clock tower. Two armchairs with a glass-topped coffee table are positioned by the window. The ceiling has exposed wooden beams, and natural light fills the space.
Exterior view of illuminated house at night with porch and pool
Wooden staircase with vertical wooden slats and natural light
Art supplies and architectural sketches on a wooden desk
Modern wooden staircase with a black metal railing, natural light illuminating the space, wooden slatted walls, and ceiling.
Modern house exterior with large windows, lit interior, and a small landscaped path leading to a wooden deck with chairs. Evening view with a tree and grass in the foreground.
Wooden walkway leading to a structure with slatted wood walls, illuminated by hanging lights, surrounded by rocks and trees, under a deep blue evening sky.
Outdoor dining area with wooden beams, a table set with fresh fruits, orange juice, and pastries, overlooking a patio with chairs and tables, pool, and surrounded by trees.
Architectural sketches of a modern house, featuring various perspectives labeled: aerial, waterside, entryside, poolside, entry court view, parking court, areaway. The sketches depict different structural angles and details of the building.

Project type: Off-Grid Private Home

Year: 2020

Role: Project Architect

Place: West Tisbury

Area: 3288 sq ft

Contractor: South Mountain Co.

Photos: Bob Gothard