Croton-on-the-Hudson, New York. Architects: Sanders, Malsin and Rieman

Here is proof that a well-designed house set on a well-chosen site can bring you a new lease on life-in-the-country every season of the year. This site consists of five wooded acres on a hillside at Croton-on-the-Hudson, New York. The owners wanted a house that would give them the feeling of being able to reach out and touch the woods from any of the rooms. They also wanted to make the most of the superb view of the Hudson River down below. To satisfy these requirements the architects gave them wide-angled windows which bring in the outdoors to every room. A butterfly roof, which is an inverted gable roof, permits these windows to be high as well as wide on both long sides of the house. On the side which gets the western sun the interior walls were extended outdoors beyond the rooms to serve as a shield. 

These walls were painted white both inside and outside the house to give the interior a greater sense of un- limited space. The other exterior walls are of natural-finish cypress siding which requires minimum upkeep and blends in well with the surroundings. The plan of the house (see next page) is simple and convenient. A chimney divides the bedroom from the living room, thereby making it possible for each room to have its own fireplace. The kitchen is right next to the dining area, the screened porch, and the terrace. making it easy to serve meals in any one of these three places. In addition to this main house, there are two cottages for guests and a garage. 

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source: House and Garden Magazine | Special Issue - 40 house plans, 1953