38 DIGS.NET
| 8.21.2020
P R O F I L E | H I D D E N H A V E N S
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PHOTOGRAPHS:
COURTESY
OF
©
BRAD
FEINKNOPF/OTTO
I
t sounds so quaint, TinkerBox. But a closer
excavation of the name reveals this remarkable
work of architecture the result of Studio MM
Architect's engagement with contemporary design,
local artisanship and craftsmanship. True to form, it's
also an experiment on part of practice to treat the
structure's cedar siding with the Japanese technique
Shou Sugi Ban. Contrasted with its lighted interior
and tapestry of rich seasonal tones, the exterior
makes a dramatic first impression.
TinkerBox is bigger than the sum of its many
parts, which includes, most principally, a generous
two-car garage, the "locus of the design,"
according to the practice, "generating space for
car storage and maintenance as well as a spacious
wine cellar and a furniture workshop." Of immediate
notice, however, is the two-story entryway
highlighting a cantilevered roof with exposed
wood beams and a double-height mahogany pivot
door with dark bronze hardware—materials that
complement the warm natural setting. Another
reminder of the site: solid wood open-rise stairs.
Milled from trees harvested from the property, this
(FROM TOP)
TINKERBOX IS BUILT
INTO A HILLSIDE
AND FEATURES A
SHOU SUGI BAN
TREATMENT OF ITS
CEDAR SIDING; A
CONTEMPORARY
LIVING SPACE; THE
OUTDOOR DECK
OFFERS AL FRESCO
DINING AND A
WOOD-FIRED GRILL;
THE SPACIOUS
ENTRYWAY.
TinkerBox, a rural idyll in woodsy Hudson
Valley by Studio MM Architect, reflects
the spirit of experimentation.
The Upstate Angle
flight of meticulously built steps lead to
the 1,260-square-foot upper living level,
which, along with the spacious yet cozy
open plan living room, accommodates a
kitchen and bathroom.
Large windows, clean lines and custom
work are characteristics of the space, which
features a Studio MM-designed brass
chandelier and other bespoke touches,
including a headboard and linen curtains.
Outside, the deck is an indulgence unto
itself. Fit for entertaining, here one finds
shelter, a fireplace that doubles as a wood-
fired grill and more. maricamckeel.com
