Architectural Cases

In the exclusive Amagansett hamlet of East Hampton, New York, the 'House in Amagansett' stands as a testament to sustainable living harmoniously blended with cultural influences. Designed by New York's Khanna Schultz studio, this residence embodies a net-positive energy approach, producing more power than it consumes. The design, deeply inspired by Japanese architectural principles, caters to a philanthropist who sought a peaceful weekend haven reflecting her extensive time spent in Japan. This home integrates dark timber cladding, a substantial rooftop solar installation, and a meticulous interior layout, creating a calm and efficient environment amidst its natural surroundings.

The project is situated on a quarter-acre plot that once housed an aging structure, which was subsequently removed. While the former building was demolished, the design team carefully preserved an existing swimming pool and a number of mature crape myrtle trees, ingeniously making these trees a central feature of the new home's aesthetic. According to Khanna Schultz, these trees, with their unique twisted trunks, offer an organic counterpoint to the abstract and minimalist lines of the architecture. The studio, based in Brooklyn, emphasized the thoughtful integration of nature into the modern design.

Architects envisioned a rectangular, L-shaped residence spanning two levels and a basement. The entrance is positioned on the south side, while the preserved crape myrtle trees are strategically located on the east, providing a picturesque view over the pool area. A core design philosophy, rooted in Japanese aesthetics, is the concept of 'gradual revelation,' evident in both the facade treatments and the internal spatial arrangements. The exterior is clad in black-stained, thermally modified spruce, a material choice that echoes the rustic charm of traditional Japanese buildings.

The front elevation of the house presents a largely opaque appearance, subtly revealing its interior as one moves towards the backyard. A distinctive 'moat and bridge' approach defines the building's entry. This 'moat' consists of two light wells carved into the ground, funneling natural light into the basement levels. This innovative feature not only enhances the entry experience but also creates a tangible connection between the subterranean spaces and the outdoor environment, a design element highlighted by the team.

Inside, the home's layout is characterized by a dedication to efficiency and a nod to Japanese domestic life. The design process was marked by exceptional precision, with every inch meticulously considered, much like the engineering of an automobile—compact yet highly functional, ensuring no space is wasted. The ground floor accommodates communal areas, the primary bedroom suite, a garage, and a screened porch. The upper level houses additional bedrooms, and the basement is dedicated to a family room. Elements such as light-filtering screens and bleached-oak flooring contribute to a serene and tranquil atmosphere.

The furnishing selection further enhances the home's aesthetic, featuring pieces like a dining set from George Nakashima Studio, a lounge chair by Finn Juhl, and custom-made items from Brooklyn craftsman Mark Jupiter. Each piece has been chosen to complement the home's calm color scheme, fostering an atmosphere of quiet contemplation. The homeowner's collection of art and ceramics, much of which was acquired during her time in Japan, is also thoughtfully integrated throughout the residence.

Sustainability was a paramount concern guiding many of the design decisions. The 'House in Amagansett' is designed to be energy positive, generating surplus energy beyond its consumption needs. This is achieved through a 23.25-kWh rooftop solar array, with any excess electricity being fed back into the grid. Further energy efficiency is maintained by a geothermal heating and cooling system and an energy recovery ventilation system. The project also included the planting of native species to attract local birds and pollinators, underscoring a deep respect for nature and simplicity, as emphasized by the design team.

O'Leary Digital, in partnership with Gensler, is spearheading the development of the Stratos Hyperscale Data Center in Box Elder County, Utah, aiming to establish it as one of the largest and most forward-thinking data centers globally. This monumental 7.5-gigawatt facility, a key component of the Wonder Valley initiative, will occupy 10,000 acres and include 60 data centers, extensive solar power installations, and a dynamic innovation hub. The project endeavors to transform conventional data center architecture by emphasizing aesthetic appeal and ecological responsibility, simultaneously tackling community apprehensions regarding water consumption and environmental impact.

Transforming Data Center Aesthetics and Functionality

O'Leary Digital, under the guidance of visionary investor Kevin O'Leary, has engaged Gensler to craft the comprehensive master plan and architectural blueprints for the Stratos Hyperscale Data Center. This ambitious undertaking is set to become one of the planet's most expansive data centers, boasting an impressive 7.5-gigawatt capacity. The initial 10,000-acre phase of the project will host 60 individual data centers, strategically arranged within a larger 40,000-acre development zone designated by Utah's Military Installation Development Authority (MIDA). This design ethos marks a significant departure from the utilitarian structures typically associated with data centers, aiming to create a facility that is both highly functional and visually integrated with its natural surroundings. The master plan envisions not only advanced data processing capabilities but also significant renewable energy integration and community-focused infrastructure, reflecting a holistic approach to large-scale development.

The architectural renderings for the Stratos project reveal a thoughtful design that deviates from the conventional, often uninspired, appearance of data centers. Inspired by Gensler's previous work on the Wonder Valley data center in Canada, these structures feature pale siding adapted to the desert climate, creating a harmonious blend with the Utah landscape. Paul Palandjian, CEO of O'Leary Digital, emphasized the company's commitment to challenging industry norms, describing typical data centers as "eyesores." He highlighted the desire for a "beautiful poetic design that belongs to the West Desert," driven by a passion for art and architecture. The design incorporates deep recesses, large glass panes at entries, and horizontal bands of color, aiming to achieve an aesthetic that is both striking and respectful of its environment. This innovative approach extends to plans for a "man camp" or workers' housing, designed to be an attractive recruitment tool, fostering a culture of excellence among the thousands of skilled tradespeople expected to contribute to this massive construction.

Addressing Environmental Concerns and Sustainable Solutions

The Stratos project, while receiving authorization from the Box Elder County Commission, has faced considerable local opposition due to environmental concerns, particularly regarding water usage and potential noise and light pollution. Community members have voiced anxieties about the impact on the already fragile Great Salt Lake and the ecological balance of the region. In response to these critical concerns, the development team has committed to implementing advanced sustainable practices, including a significant 3,000-acre solar array for on-site power generation. This commitment aims to substantially reduce the reliance on external power sources and mitigate the environmental footprint of such a large-scale facility. The project's proponents argue that, over its multi-decade phased development, the long-term environmental benefits will outweigh initial concerns, setting a new standard for sustainable infrastructure.

A core element of the Stratos Hyperscale Data Center's environmental strategy is its pioneering use of "closed-loop cooling" technology. This innovative system is designed to minimize water consumption dramatically, ensuring that the facility's potable water demands are a mere fraction of what has been publicly speculated. Paul Palandjian underscored that the project's water usage would be significantly less than the agricultural activities currently dominating the land. Furthermore, the master plan allocates only a small percentage of the total acreage for building footprints, reserving the vast majority for preserved native landscapes, stormwater detention areas with indigenous vegetation, and ecological corridors. This thoughtful land management approach is intended to protect and enhance local biodiversity. While initial power will likely come from connections to the Ruby Pipeline, the ultimate vision includes on-site power generation, making the Stratos Data Center a leader in environmentally responsible infrastructure and a model for future hyperscale developments.