American Playhouse

Rye Golf and Pool Club w/ TPA Architects, New Haven, CT

(Rye, NY.)

Unlike the original gothic clubhouse, this building responds more to its residential neighborhood in suburban Rye. Though traditional European styles are more typical of many exclusive men's clubs, such vocabularies seem out-of-place for a public, co-ed facility. Instead, more American sources--namely Frank Lloyd Wright and the Prairie School--are the inspiration here.

Also, by consolidating all of the functions into a single structure, important goals are achieved. First, construction costs are reduced and less land is impacted, leaving more open space available for future use. Second, the most prominent design feature--the roof--becomes richer as it responds to a variety of views and uses. With its linear extension and generous overhangs, the roof offers protection while celebrating the broad, open spaces of the swimming pool and golf course.