House On A Dune

Harbour Island, Eleuthera Bahamas

Located on Harbour Island, just off the northern tip of the Bahamas' larger Eleuthera Island, the two-story residence perches atop a sand bank, giving it the name House on a Dune, and is designed to make the most of views of the surrounding North Atlantic Ocean. Designed with the land, not on the land, the building becomes a frame for nature?shapes, textures, and spaces that respect and celebrate their surroundings. This inherent beauty and humility come from a profound understanding and deference to the location, and the sensitive engagement with local builders and vernacular materials. Its simple rectangular floor plan places the main living area ? including the dining room and lounge ? at the center of the top floor. Sliding doors open the space entirely onto the two wooden decks on either side. When the doors are opened entirely, the size of the living area is tripled for entertaining guests and sea air is allowed to flow through the house. The two-story residence perches atop a sand bank, giving it the name House on a Dune.