Architect Visit: Deborah Berke in Litchfield County, Connecticut - Remodelista
New York-based architect Deborah Berke (a Remodelista Architect/Designer Directory member) is known for designs that draw strength from simplicity; quietly complete in their self-assurance. The main house, garage, and pool house are grouped to form a natural courtyard. The wood shingles are stained with Cabot’s solid Pewter Gray. The pure forms of the house and outbuildings, with their standing seam metal roofing, stained wood shingles, and vertical siding, refer to functional vernacular structures. The living room opens onto the double-height screened porch. Berke mixes traditional building materials (louvered shutters, shingles, french doors) with modern scale. Traditional shutters hinged at the top can be hooked to the ceiling when not in use. Rows of double-hung windows ensure that each room is flooded with light. A double-height screened porch separates the guest wing from the main house. The pool is discreetly situated on an elevated grassy lawn, bordered by hand-built stone walls. A view of the pool area from the screened changing pavilion. Photography by Catherine Tighe.