Taylored Architecture was asked to design a highly contemporary "steel and glass" house on a private island in the Thousand Islands. The design took shape from a structural grid of steel columns that support a steel roof framing system. The steel columns are expressed on the exterior of the building allowing all of the exterior walls to be non-load bearing. This allowed for Marvin floor-to-ceiling Modern sliding doors and windows. The White Oak interior flooring was used as the interior ceiling material and was carried out onto the exterior ceilings/soffit diffusing the separation from the interior to the exterior of the building. A double-cantilevering 30 foot cantilevering roof creates a dynamic experience from the grounds and deck. A Corten steel fascia punctuates the structural expression of the design. The house was designed to elegantly hover over the natural landscape of the island.
This island is off the grid and utilizes a self-adjusting solar array for all electrical needs.
The structural design was performed by Jensen BRV Engineering. Mechanical engineering was performed by Jade Stone Engineering. Solar Consulting was performed by Proven Energy Systems. Photography by Revette Studio.
This project won a 2022 Citation of Design from the CNY American Institute of Architects. Taylored Architecture was asked to design a new house, boat port, and bunk house on a private island property in the 1000 Islands. The clients wanted the main focus of the island to be the natural vegetation. Thus, we designed a modest house with high quality finishes and amenities that integrated nicely into the island landscape. The clients desired wood tones and an elevated Adirondack aesthetic. This project was in collaboration with Taylor + Co. Interiors for interior specifications and furnishings. Project built by Andrecon. Photos by Krista Jahnke Photography.
This project won a 2023 AIA CNY Citation of Design Award. Taylored Architecture was asked to design a new cottage in a small community on Lake Ontario. Our clients desired a traditional style house that pays homage to the historic architecture of the area. Inspiration for the design was gleaned from historic images of community cottages as well as the clients' goals for modern amenities, accessibility to the waterfront, and open spaces. The lot for the house is quite narrow, thus we developed a three-floor design that met the clients' program within the property parameters. This project was in collaboration with Taylor + Co. Interiors for interior specifications and furnishings. Project built by Goutremout Brothers. Photos by Joseph T. Meirose IV.
A repeat client of Taylored Architecture purchased an existing multi-structure property that consisted of a main house, boathouse, carriage house and skiff house. The skiff house was a beautiful historic structure with curved roofs that sat near the shoreline at a low elevation. The skiff house was the last remaining structure of a large historic Victorian compound, the rest of which had burned down many years ago.
The main house had originally been designed by Grater Architects as a guest house for the previous owners. The previous owners then decided to add onto the guest house instead of constructing a larger main house and utilized a different architectural firm. The two connected structures did not flow well and had multiple redundancies. The most glaring issue was that from the main living room one had to look through the boathouse roof and the skiff house roof to see the magnificent view.
The client was compelled to salvage and relocate the skiff house. The structure was rotated 90° and translated 70 feet to the West. In this process it was raised out of the flood plain and provided with a proper foundation. We also added a new screened porch to the Riverside to open the space to the exterior and the views.
Since the original boathouse slip had been excavated from the shoreline we were able to remove the roof and replace it with a deck and railing system to create a generous outdoor space. A Glulam bridge was designed in collaboration with Unalam to connect the main living level of the house with the new boathouse roof deck. We also worked with Shade Sails to design and fabricate a tensioned fabric shade sail.
The interior of the house was completely renovated. A cohesive interior design aesthetic was generated with the consultation of the clients and in collaboration with Taylor + Co. Interiors. We also created pointed reconfigurations of the interior spaces to create a better flow of spaces and accommodate the needs and desires of the new owners.
See the before photo at the bottom of the photo section.
The project was constructed by Valley Maples Construction.
Photography by Revette Studio.
Taylored Architecture was asked to collaborate with Steve Taylor, Jonathan's father, on a sustainable and affordable housing design project for the Navajo nation. The concept was to re-create a hogan, the traditional Navajo dwelling unit. The structures were designed to be affordable with concrete slab-on-grade foundations and straw bail exterior walls. A traditional timber frame was designed to be the structure of the roof system, which can also be seen in the traditional structures. There were two styles of hogan designed, a hexagonal version and a square version. Within each version there were two differing floor plan options designed as well. Recently the project has had a new life as it is being promoted by Earth Mills, Inc. All renderings and videos were created by Earth Mills, Inc.
View the octagonal Navajo Hogan Home Design.
This project won a 2018 Citation of Design from the CNY American Institute of Architects. Taylored Architecture was asked to design a "tiny house" or "love shack" for a client on Grindstone Island as a surprise gift for she and her husband's 20th wedding anniversary. The client desired a contemporary aesthetic with efficient spaces. The standing seam roof wraps down the back exterior wall of the structure to add to the contemporary aesthetic. Large windows and doors bring the outside in. Interior finishes include plywood walls, a mix of extraordinary tiles, and brushed stainless steel fixtures. This has been a fun project for very fun clients. Project built by Absolute Construction. Photos by Eric Salsbery.
Taylored Architecture designed this new waterfront house in the Town of Clayton to maximize east/west views out of the main living spaces and also vantage points of year-round St. Lawrence River sunsets. The waterfront aesthetic was designed with a more contemporary feel with floor to ceiling glass, open living spaces, a weathered cedar deck pergola, and screened porch. A large covered porch, with views of rolling farmland, was designed on the south side of the house. Photographs by Joseph T Meirose IV and Revette Studio. Interiors by Taylor + Co. Interiors.
Our firm was asked to renovate this cottage located in the historic Thousand Island Park community. Working closely with the client and contractor we completed a full renovation including adding multiple first and second floor spaces, relocating a staircase, and creating generous outdoor living areas. Project built by Greene Structures. Photos by Joseph T. Meirose IV.
We collaborated with our clients on a full renovation of an existing house on Lake Ontario. We converted the previous post-modern design into a Nantucket-style cottage, showcasing cedar shingle siding and roofing, simplified detailing, deep porches, copper accents, and limestone work in keeping with the natural resources of the region. We substantially restructured the building to open up interior spaces and maximize ceiling heights. The renovation includes a new sun room addition that was detailed to resemble the interior of an antique wooden yacht. This project was in collaboration with Taylor + Co. Interiors for interior specifications and furnishings. Project built by Goutremout Brothers. Photos by Joseph T. Meirose IV.
We were asked to provide finishing architectural services and construction details for this contemporary house in Potsdam, NY. We worked closely with the client to choose interior finishes and meet client goals with the finalized project. Photographs by Joseph T Meirose IV.
Taylored Architecture was asked to design a new cottage on the site of an existing cabin on Murray Isle. The concept was to tread as lightly on the site as possible and keep the project modest in its outward appearance, much like the surrounding cottages. We incorporated an open floor plan, folding scenic door from Marvin Windows & Doors, outdoor shower, and generous screened porch with cathedral ceilings into the design. Project built by French Bay Custom Building. Photos by Chris Murray Photography.
The client requested an Arts & Crafts Style house that melded into the rugged landscape. We utilized large overhangs, extended timber rafter tails, and tapered stone columns to allow this house to stand out as an authentic homage to the original movement. The interiors are clean and elegant creating a modern and new living space within the traditional design aesthetic. This project was in collaboration with Taylor + Co. Interiors for interior specifications and furnishings. Project built by Jordstat Construction. Photos by Revette Studio.
A repeat client requested a new, classic cottage in place of a fishing camp that stood on the site. We worked with the client to create a design to complement the neighborhood while providing modern amenities and fulfilling program desires. We used classic interior finishes such as double bead board and natural woods to create a charming, timeless feel. This project was in collaboration with Taylor + Co. Interiors for interior specifications and furnishings. Project built by LP Builders. Photos by Joseph T. Meirose IV.
This project won a 2023 AIA CNY Dean Biancavilla Historic Preservation Award. Taylored Architecture was asked to create multiple additions to this prominent, historic cottage in T.I. Park. We added an enclosed porch to the first floor and an enlarged second floor porch for increased outdoor accessibility and use. We also added a small addition with a second floor balcony on the eastern side of the cottage to accommodate an enlarged bathroom and kitchen pantry. A three-story private porch to the north of the building was added so the clients will be able to enjoy private outdoor spaces as well. We completely renovated and winterized the cottage to increase the clients' ability to use this wonderful home year-round.
We were asked to significantly update and renovate this existing island home near Alexandria Bay, NY. We replaced and revised all windows, revised the interior layouts to maximize River views, performed construction coordination, and assisted with interior and exterior finish selections. Project built by Valley Maples Construction. Photos by Full Frame Works Photography.
Taylored Architecture in collaboration with Steve Taylor - Builder completed the Schematic Design and issued the Building Permit Set for this year-round cottage in the historic community of Thousand Island Park, NY. The project was completed in early summer 2013. The design for this project needed to have roots in the historical vernacular of Thousand Island Park. As the project progressed it developed toward a shingle style aesthetic. The two most striking elements of the design are the lantern style tower and the Piazza on the Northwest facade. Photographs by Joseph T Meirose IV.
We worked with our client to design an island “garage” that could store cars, boats, and landscape equipment. Conceptually the project was modeled after old barns from the area. With their simple forms and rusted/worn materials, these structures become nostalgic icons. Taking that concept and moving it toward a new and contemporary outcome, we proposed Corten steel siding and roof materials. The roof is a Corten standing seam, while the siding is Corten batten siding. The Corten products came from Bridger Steel. The project was constructed by On The River Construction who recommended having the project engineered and prefabricated by Lester Buildings. The final product is a contemporary barn with a living finish that quietly stands out. Photos by Joseph T. Meirose IV.
This charming 12’X14’ tent kit was purchased from a company called Sweetwater Bungalows. Taylored Architecture made this tent a summer home by salvaging, refinishing and installing reclaimed windows and doors, including antique french doors and hardware; designing a cedar frame for the tent structure; and siting the bungalow in a low valley, about 100’ from shore in the center of the island, which protects the property from neighbors, winds and Northern New York winters. By creating sitting areas and "rooms" within the small space, Taylored Architecture helped to turn this relatively small tent into a luxurious getaway. The light and shadows shining through the walls along with the wind and rain dancing on the canvas rekindle childhood memories of camping trips and exude a closeness to nature.
Taylored Architecture was asked to design a new house on a spectacular and pristine site along the Black River in Watertown, NY. The site is located along an area known as "the gorge" and is approximately 40-50 feet above the river with sheer limestone cliffs covered in cedar trees reaching down to the water. The program included a two-car garage with music studio/guest apartment above as well as a two-bedroom house. To keep the massing smaller the garage is connected to the house with a small link that functions as the entry hall. Photographs by Joseph T Meirose IV.
Taylored Architecture designed a temporary structure that could be rolled down onto the beach for a client on Grindstone Island. A temporary structure is allowed within the setbacks established for permanent structures. The desire was to have a self-sustaining building with a murphy bed in the living area, a kitchenette, and a bath. The contemporary design for the structure takes its cues from the existing main house on the property.
Taylored Architecture was asked to design a new house on the foot of Carleton Island in Cape Vincent, New York. The site was once part of the island pastures for the original Zenda Farm, built and managed by Merle Youngs of the Youngs Rubber Company. Still very much a pasture, the landscape lends itself to a low single story structure. It was the client's desire to maximize views to the Northeast and ventilation from the prevailing Southwest winds coming from the fields behind. The house is oriented 45 degrees to the adjoining lot lines and the windows carefully located as to never see either neighbors house from within. Cross-ventilation is maintained via windows, door transoms, and the incorporation of a cupola over the living/dining/kitchen areas. This cupola will also bring the warm glow of the evening sunsets into the center of the house. Project built by Goutremout Brothers Construction.
We completely renovated this 1910 arts and crafts style bungalow to retain the original charm of the house, yet update it with modern functionality and amenities. The existing baths and kitchen were in need of major updates. Thus, we were able to add on to the kitchen and update it with a new apron farmhouse sink, custom cabinetry, and modern appliances, including a fun Ruby Red Blue Star range. The bathrooms were reconfigured and re-tiled using materials appropriate for the original era. We sourced arts and crafts style stained glass windows from the 1910 era to create additional charm for the bathroom as well as privacy. The original hardwood floors throughout the house were salvaged and refinished. The original windows were previously replaced. Thus, we specified new windows for the house that are reminiscent to the original windows.
This project is an extreme renovation to an existing single-family dwelling with an attached boathouse that is situated on a private island. A portion of the existing structure cantilevers over the water, creating a room with exceptional unobstructed views. It was paramount to the design to maintain this development area over the water.
The client requested a contemporary structure with an open floor plan and as much glass as possible. A low-slope (flat) roof system was designed to offer second story balcony opportunities and to keep the structure's height minimized. To help visually soften the structure we proposed an extensive green roof system. This style roof when planted with native species will also create natural landscape surroundings to the second floor balconies.
We were asked to design a new house and boathouse in place of an existing cottage on a beautiful island property in Eel Bay. The clients desired a traditional aesthetic, thus the house design was developed with an arts and crafts style. We sited the new house in the location of the existing house in an effort to save old growth trees on the island. As the house and boathouse were sited so near each other, we connected them with a stair tower and bridge. The stair tower was designed to be large enough for a library/office on the top floor and a small workout room on the dock level.
Taylored Architecture was asked to design a house on this beautiful site on the Black River near Watertown, NY. The house was designed to be built in two phases. The first phase will consist of a garage and apartment (with private accessibility). The second phase will consist of master living areas and bedrooms. Phase I will begin in 2017. The future house and living space that also allows for spacious outdoor areas will be constructed in the near future.
Our clients desired a contemporary house with decorative parapet gable end walls. The parapet gable end wall is a traditional design aesthetic in the Rochester, NY, neighborhood where the house is located. The house is sited along the beach shoreline of Lake Ontario. This large, new construction project includes beach level access, a large kitchen and living area and a seamless glass corner window detail facing the Lake Ontario sunsets.
We were asked to substantially renovate a historic stone house in Cape Vincent, which included expanding existing porches, replacing windows, better winterizing the house, and rearranging some of the interior spaces. We developed a master plan for the house that the client would be able to complete over time. We also designed a new garage and storage building for the site. The landscape architecture is being designed by A.J. Miller Landscape Architecture, PLLC. We worked closely with the landscape architect to site the outbuildings.
Our client provided an inspiration photo and asked for a contemporary house that maximized views and used a lot of glass. This design utilizes Glulam timber beams that are expressed both inside and out. These beams establish a rhythm that was picked up with the window layout. Creativity with the low pitched roofs allows for positive drainage and an elegant presence.
Taylored Architecture was commissioned to create a contemporary "outbuilding" addition to a whimsical, historic cottage on Round Island. The clients requested a screened breezeway connection between the existing cottage and the new "outbuilding." We sited the new building on an angle to capitalize on the majestic views of the international bridge and sunrises. Creating a simple, cross-gable building also provided for a more dynamic relationship with the original structure. The interior boasts a contemporary kitchen and the deck provides a beautiful spot for outdoor dining.
Taylored Architecture was asked to design a new house along the lakefront in Cape Vincent, NY. Our clients provided a modern program with a request for a traditional house style. We took our design cues from some of the Greek revival historic houses in the town of Cape Vincent. The result is a design with a timeless exterior and a functional, modern-day interior.
We were asked to design a traditional style house reminiscent of Cape Cod and Nantucket architecture. The client desires the structure to be constructed in two phases. A garage and carriage house will be constructed during the first phase. The clients requested a tower element, brewing facility, great rooms, a library, and an outdoor, covered cooking area among other program elements. We feel we accomplished these goals. Construction will most likely begin in fall 2017.
Taylored Architecture was commissioned to design a new house on Round Island. The clients had a clear vision for the aesthetic of the structure and worked closely with us to create the design. There are many exciting interior design concepts that were integrated into the design to help create a refined yet rustic space for this family's island house. The project was designed to be constructed in two phases. Phase 1 construction began in October of 2014.
Taylored Architecture completed the Schematic Design for a contemporary cabin in the woods. The initial concept was a garage for winter boat storage that could then function as a game room and guest suite during summer months. The program requireda beer pong table and kitchenette in the winter garage area. The design is linear with a strong focus on the River views with the game room/garage elevated over the bank and made with a teak rainscreen. The guest suite is bunkered into the bank and made of reinforced concrete with a green roof, which can be enjoyed as a level terrace area.
Taylored Architecture was commissioned to design an addition to a historic Victorian cottage on Round Island. Very small kitchens and limited baths were typical of these historic cottages and the owners wanted to change this. The program asked for an open plan, larger kitchen, another bedroom upstairs and one-and-a-half more baths. They also requested a new porch to the east that was more inkeeping with the historic character of the home. The living space addition is simply a gable extension with the additon of a bay window and some new dormers. The porch addition is a re-creation of the porches originally on the riverfront of the cottage as seen in historic etchings and photos that the clients had in their cottage.
