The concept of Carlin Hill Farm evolved through a soulful retrospection of mindsets, experiences, and ongoing life patterns. Essentially, the design is a New England Shingle Style-Farmhouse hybrid, with touches of National Park Lodge and Adirondack Camp, with an Arts and Crafts flavor. This is expressed through the integrated use of cedar clapboard siding and shakes with undulating wood trim, wood truss/braces and trelliswork, porches and multiple wrap-around decks, stonework, a cupola, and barn-door detailing. Furthermore, a T-shaped, zigzagging plan is reconciled with intersecting and shifting gable-hip roof forms. 

The first floor includes the main entry, open living/dining/kitchen area with pantry, sunroom/office, master bedroom and bath, laundry room, ½ bath, and another bedroom with bath. The second floor includes a bedroom and bath, along with a “get-away” study/photography studio. The basement is built into the hill and includes a recreation room with bath, storage, and mechanical room. The multi-level decks facing west towards the Connecticut River Valley provide outdoor living, and an entry garden/courtyard with trellis leads to the garage. 

Sustainable strategies for this 3,240 s.f. house include a passive solar sunspace, geothermal heating and cooling system, natural lighting and ventilation, Energy Star appliances, LED lighting, and a high-efficiency wood burning fireplace.  Ultimately, this home is responsive to the modes, mindsets, and passions for life/work/play experiences for this architect and his family.