River Architects PLLC Residential Brochure

SUSTAINABLE • HIGH-PERFORMANCE • HEALTHY • HOMES

BY RIVER ARCHITECTS, PLLC

178 MAIN ST COLD SPRING, NY 10516

RIVERARCHITECTS.COM +1 845 265 2254

WHAT ARE SUSTAINABLE HIGH-PERFORMANCE & HEALTHY HOMES? River Architects is committed designing thoughtful homes for a larger purpose. Our high-performance homes are built to Phius Passive building standards, utilizing significantly less energy than typical construction and are 100% electric, eliminating reliance on fossil fuels.

Our homes prioritize health by using building materials that minimally off-gas and reduce exposure to airborne pollutants. An airtight enclosure, paired with fresh air ventilation, ensures exceptional indoor air quality.

Thoughtful design and execution of water, vapor, and thermal control in the enclosure minimize the risk of mold and eliminates drafts for a comfortable, quiet, and healthy home.

Held to the highest quality control standards, passive buildings have been proven to be more resilient in natural disasters, such as extreme weather events and power outages. Their ventilation and filtration control strategies provide protection from polluted outdoor air.

High-performance homes offer long-term affordability by ensuring future energy savings when investing in a new home. Their low replacement and maintenance costs further contribute to significant savings over time.

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HOW DO WE BUILD SUSTAINABLE HIGH-PERFORMANCE & HEALTHY HOMES? Our architects are also Certified Passive House Consultants, guiding homeowners through the Phius certification process, which ensures rigorous quality control. Even for homes built without certification, our team upholds the same high standards.

Continuous super-insulation around the enclosure enhances comfort by maintaining a consistent interior temperature. With no breaks in the insulation layer, outdoor temperatures cannot infiltrate the interior. This ensures thermal resilience during power outages, keeping indoor temperatures stable.

High-performance windows and doors are strategically positioned to achieve an optimal balance between heat loss and solar heat gain. We use premium triple-pane windows with high thermal resistance to minimize condensation and reduce air leakage. Shading is carefully designed to regulate solar radiation, ensuring optimal indoor comfort.

A fresh air ventilation system helps protect against indoor and outdoor pollutants, such as pollen, smog, and distant wildfire smoke.

Designated openings facilitate intake and exhaust, with ductwork that filters fresh air and expels stale air. Heat and moisture from outgoing air transfer energy to pre-conditioned air, reducing energy needs for heating and cooling.

An airtight barrier controls vapor and moisture at exterior walls, preventing drafts and helping to deter mold growth. Managing the air and vapor barrier minimizes infiltration of unconditioned outside air and prevents the loss of conditioned air—reducing energy costs.

Solar panels harness free energy without relying on fossil fuels.

Because of the home’s small energy footprint, made possible by highperformance systems, fewer solar panels are needed, making net-zero or off-grid living easier to achieve.

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Who We Are 05

Our Design Approach 06

Our Process 07

Selected Works 09 Under Construction 22 Other Works 23 Recognition 24

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WHO WE ARE River Architects, PLLC, is a full-service architectural firm specializing in contemporary and intelligent design.

The office was founded by Juhee Lee-Hartford in New York City in 2002, with a partnership established with James Hartford in 2005. Both partners are licensed architects, LEED-Accredited Professionals, and Certified Passive House Consultants (CPHC).

River Architects has one of the highest numbers of Certified Passive House Consultants among New York State design firms and was one of the first to integrate energy modeling as a core component of the design process.

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DESIGN APPROACH We approach each design challenge with a fresh outlook, creating innovative solutions that respond to the individual needs of our clients and the unique characteristics of each project site. We aim to create homes that feel effortlessly modern yet deeply comfortable - a place that supports both everyday living and quiet retreat.

REGIONAL DESIGN WITH A GLOBAL PERSPECTIVE While deeply attuned to the unique needs of our region, River Architects brings a global design perspective to every project. As architects who have traveled extensively, we draw from a broad spectrum of international influences, sustainability innovations, and architectural trends. Our work is rooted in a thorough understanding of local landscapes, communities, and building practices, while our global exposure allows us to approach design with fresh insight and a broader vision. This dual perspective enables us to create thoughtful, high-performance spaces that feel both contextually grounded and forward-thinking.

BLURRING INDOOR & OUTDOOR LIVING We consider how people typically live - with a desire to experience indoor and outdoor spaces comfortably and thoughtfully. We create connections between these spaces through sight-lines, alignment, and flow while maintaining privacy. Spaces are light filled, with framed views to the surrounding landscape.

AUTHENTIC NATURAL MATERIALS Natural materials are key components of sustainable architecture, supporting the health of both the home and its occupants. They are also beautiful to look at, pleasing to the touch, and timeless.

Their rich textures and organic warmth create spaces that feel inviting and grounded, fostering a deeper connection to nature.

Timeless in both aesthetic and function, natural materials age gracefully, developing character over time while maintaining their visual and tactile appeal.

CONTEMPORARY & COMFORTABLE SPACES Our homes embrace open spaces, thoughtful sight-lines, and intentional alignments to create a flow between spaces and a strong connection to the surrounding environment. By merging clean lines, simple geometry, and natural materials, we craft spaces that are both serene and inviting. Thoughtfully framed views, abundant natural light, and a balanced play of textures bring warmth and livability to our contemporary designs.

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OUR PROCESS

River Architects works closely with the client, alongside trusted consultants and builders, to bring a design from paper to reality.

CONCEPT DESIGN We begin by working with the client to determine project needs and goals while exploring big ideas through several design iterations. We consider views, alignments, and the integration of indoor and outdoor spaces to develop a functional floor plan and an elegant building design. Together with the civil engineer, we determine appropriate site requirements and outline project approval needs.

SCHEMATIC DESIGN The floor plans are finalized and the building design is developed alongside an energy model that optimizes window size/placement, insulation needs, solar panel strategy, and more. We use a 3D model to provide renderings, video fly-throughs, and a virtual reality walk-through to visualize the design.

At this stage, we begin discussions with prospective builders to obtain a preliminary cost estimate and establish a project timeline.

DESIGN DEVELOPMENT Interior and exterior material options are proposed alongside updated renderings. We develop the home’s interior design and provide guidance on selecting appropriate appliances, plumbing fittings, and lighting. We collaborate with structural and mechanical engineers to establish a structural framework, technical details, and heating/cooling strategies.

Furniture selection and procurement services are available upon request.

APPROVALS River Architects works with building officials and reviews local codes and potential municipal approval requirements from the very beginning of a project. Experience is key in collaborating with clients, contractors, and various approval agencies to establish estimated timelines and secure prompt approvals.

We coordinate with clients, contractors, and consultants to prepare and submit the building permit application, communicate with code enforcement, and provide all necessary information until the permits are issued.

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OUR PROCESS PRICING We work closely with contractors to determine project pricing, taking into account labor and material costs, municipal fees, and overhead expenses. We provide timely responses to contractors’ questions and help clients understand various elements of contractors’ estimates throughout the process.

Passive building standards can reduce energy use by up to 90% compared to conventional construction, yielding long-term financial benefits for our clients.

CONSTRUCTION DOCUMENTS During this phase, we continue refining the design drawings into construction documents. These highly detailed drawings commonly referred to as ‘blueprints’ - are fine-tuned and prepared for construction, including building details, interior design, fixtures, finishes, and more. The final drawing set demonstrates code compliance and provide contractors with a clearer understanding of the design and specifications.

CONSTRUCTION ADMINISTRATION Construction administration is crucial during the construction phase. We communicate regularly with clients to keep them informed about project progress and collaborate with contractors and consultants throughout the building process to ensure the project is executed according to the design intent and quality established in the drawings. Details are clarified to ensure the final product aligns with the drawings developed throughout the design process. Collaboration is essential during construction administration, as we meet on-site with clients and the builder throughout the phase.

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SELECTED WORKS

CATSKILL

RESIDENCE ROCKQUIST

MINOR HOUSE

ON THE POND SHAWANGUNK

PASSIVE MOUNTAIN HOUSE HYDE PARK RESIDENCE

178 MAIN ST COLD SPRING, NY 10516

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RIVERARCHITECTS.COM +1 845 265 2254

SELECTED WORKS | CATSKILL RESIDENCE

CATSKILL RESIDENCE A New York City-based family purchased land in the Catskills with the dream of building a modern farmhouse with a connection to its natural surroundings. At the same time, River Architects happened to be sketching concept houses, summarizing the common requests of families relocating to the Hudson Valley. This merge of efforts saved design time significantly.

The 4,600 SF home was ideal for panel construction, where high-performance, lowembodied-energy panels are manufactured in a factory setting with pre-installed windows, doors, and a weather-tight skin. This controlled environment reduces the risks and delays associated with on-site construction. The cost of manufacturing and installing exterior panels, interior rough framing, an entry canopy, and temporary stairs accounted for less than 22% of the total construction cost—significantly less than typical construction.

The airtight, high-efficiency building envelope is built to the Passive House standard.

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SELECTED WORKS | CATSKILL RESIDENCE

Natural cedar siding will gray over time. Elegant light fixtures, furniture, custom millwork, and finishes add warmth to the interior of the house. Outdoor spaces include a generous wraparound deck and a covered trellis area for alfresco dining. Sound-isolated floors and acoustically insulated interior walls enhance aural comfort.

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SELECTED WORKS | ROCKQUIST MINOR

ROCKQUIST MINOR - CERTIFIED PASSIVE HOUSE (PHIUS) Rockquist Minor, a certified Passive building, will initially serve as a weekend home before transitioning into a guest cottage once the owners construct a main house as their fulltime residence. The clients approached River Architects with extensive research on highperformance homes. It was rare to work with clients who could seamlessly transition from design discussions to technical solutions, making this project a truly collaborative integration of three parties—clients, architects, and builders.

By committing to higher airtightness, implementing lower U-value windows and patio doors on the south elevation, and eliminating vertical muntins on all windows and doors, we achieved PHIUS+ 2015 standards. The installation of a 10.5 kW PV system enabled us to reach Source Zero performance—producing as much or more energy than the home and its occupants consume.

One of the key highlights of the house is its stunning view of the Hudson River and its surroundings, framed through high-performance windows and doors.

Best Source Zero Honorable Mention, 2019 Phius Passive Projects Design Awards

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SELECTED WORKS | ROCKQUIST MINOR

The open kitchen, dining, and living areas form the heart of the house. With future needs in mind, the ground floor includes age-in-place amenities, such as a spacious bedroom with easy access to an ADA-accessible bathroom. The upper level features two private bedroom suites and an office.

The walk-out basement includes a bluestone patio, a mudroom with laundry, a den, a guest bedroom, and a bath.

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SELECTED WORKS | HOUSE ON THE POND

HOUSE ON THE POND Our clients needed to modify an existing log cabin to accommodate a larger entry vestibule, a new kitchen, a primary suite, and a finished basement. To achieve a deep-energy retrofit for the entire house, we designed the new wing to meet Passive building standards.

To fulfill the clients’ programmatic needs, the existing single-story southern wing was removed and replaced with a two-story addition. We worked carefully with the local Conservation Board to avoid any disturbance to the existing wetland and its buffer zone. A rectangular volume with an angled roof was designed to frame views toward the pond. The second-floor addition is expressed as if a light box were inserted into a dark box.

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SELECTED WORKS | HOUSE ON THE POND

The new design provides ample space at the entry vestibule, where the family can unload winter gear and store it in a large walk-in closet immediately adjacent to the vestibule. The expanded kitchen, located in the same area as the original, has been reoriented to face the living room and back patio, where outdoor cooking and casual gatherings take place.

The pantry and a laundry room, which features a discreet door to the bathroom, are situated immediately west of the kitchen. A home office is positioned above the vestibule.

The second-floor addition includes an outdoor deck accessible from both the primary suite and the home office. This ‘extended living area’ has become the perfect spot for morning yoga, work-fromhome coffee breaks, and quiet weekend breakfasts.

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Learn more about House on the Pond

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SELECTED WORKS | SHAWANGUNK PASSIVE

SHAWANGUNK PASSIVE - PHIUS DESIGN CERTIFIED

River Architects designed a modern vacation home in the Shawangunk Mountain region. The clients longed for a home that would transport them from their daily lives to a space deeply connected to the region’s natural landscape. Their priorities included a modern, airy, and open feel with interconnected spaces, high ceilings, and seamless indoor-outdoor views.

The project achieved Phius design certification in 2024, marking an important milestone that ensured it met all energy targets outlined by Phius’ climate-specific, cost-optimized standard. This design is expected to achieve Net-Zero status.

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SELECTED WORKS | SHAWANGUNK PASSIVE

Multiple gathering spaces for family and friends to dine, relax, and celebrate were incorporated. The spacious living, dining, and kitchen areas flow together, allowing for easy interaction across the first floor.

All are outfitted in natural wood tones with steel accents. Exterior vertical wood slats provide both interior shading and visual interest through tall clerestory windows. A wood-burning stove adds a cozy touch to the living and dining rooms.

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SELECTED WORKS | MOUNTAIN HOUSE

MOUNTAIN HOUSE - LEED SILVER CERTIFIED A client from New York City reached out to River Architects to help bring his vision of an environmentally friendly, futuristic weekend home to life.

River Architects envisioned a long, linear structure anchored into a hillside at the rear of the site, hovering over the landscape. The main living floor is wrapped in moss-green rainscreen panels, blending seamlessly with the surrounding tree canopy. A deck extends from the south side, reaching out to the land, with space reserved for a future lap pool. The primary suite opens to the north, overlooking a valley and creating the sensation of being within the canopy, while the dense forest ensures privacy and intimacy. The minimal lower level is clad in black rainscreen panels, allowing it to visually disappear. Both the rainscreen panels and finishes require zero maintenance.

Designed with high efficiency in mind, the house has achieved an Energy Star rating of HERS 60, making it 40% more efficient than the average new home built today. Structurally insulated panels (SIPs) and triple-glazed windows provide a high R-value with airtight construction. Advanced mechanical systems ensure an exceptionally comfortable and healthy interior environment.

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SELECTED WORKS | MOUNTAIN HOUSE

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SELECTED WORKS | HYDE PARK RESIDENCE

HYDE PARK RESIDENCE Our client purchased a classic mid-century modern home from the 1950s that had previously been converted into a two-unit duplex. The result was separate, cramped apartments with a restrictive flow and no connection between spaces. The client asked us to reconfigure the house back into a single-family residence with a comfortable and logical flow while retaining its authentic materials and unique vintage qualities.

Homes of this style typically feature a strong use of stone and wood, often include vaulted beamed ceilings, and blur the boundaries between interior and exterior spaces. We opened up views throughout the house and re-established its visual connection to the landscape, embracing the contours and materiality of the home’s era.

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SELECTED WORKS | HYDE PARK RESIDENCE

Reconnecting the two levels of the home with winding stairs created more than just a practical passage—it enhanced the play of light throughout the space. We incorporated a poetic, origami-like shell with a hand-carved wooden handrail as a counterpoint to the sharp angularity of the stairs, while minimalist hardware allowed the shapes and finishes to take center stage.

Large windows and stone fireplaces are featured throughout the home, presenting a challenge in improving its thermal performance. Mechanical systems were updated, significantly enhancing the home’s air quality and efficiency. The result is a timeless space that meets the needs of a modern resident while providing comfort and serenity to a busy creative.

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IN PROGRESS / UNDER CONSTRUCTION

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Open Plan + Geometric Loft © 2025 River Architects PLLC. All Rights Reserved.

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1. GARRISON MID-CENTURY 2. BRANT LAKE 3. CHINAPOND RESIDENCE 4. SHAWANGUNK RESIDENCE 5. STEPS HOUSE 6. CASPIAN PLACE 7. ASHOKAN HOME 8. CLIFFVIEW ADDITION 9. SAGAMORE LAKEHOUSE 10. MODERN CHAPPAQUA ADDITION 11. GROVE TOWNHOUSES 12. ARBOR SOUND 13. RONDOUT HOUSE 14. BARD ROCK PLACE 15. OBERCREEK BREWERY

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OTHER WORKS CULTURAL / COMMERCIAL / MULTIFAMILY

MANITOGA / THE RUSSEL WRIGHT DESIGN CENTER THE BANK LOFTS (PH) SEMINARY HILL CIDERY (PH) RIVER ARCHITECTS STUDIO (PH) INDUSTRIAL ARTS BREWERY CATSKILL BREWERY (LEED) HUDSON VALLEY BREWERY MELT FUSION LOUNGE COOPERSTOWN MULTIFAMILY DEVELOPMENT (PH) LITTLE LOAF BAKESHOP

MILL RIVER PARK COHEN ICE RINK & FOUNTAIN COLD SPRING DOCK MINE DOCK PARK FAUCHERE CONVENE, MILLFORD, PA CITY OF HUDSON DRI APPLICATION NYS DEPT. OF STATE CONSULTATION WALLY FARMS STONE BARNS WASH & PACK FACILITY 519 W. 23RD ST CONSULTATION CHAPEL RESTORATION GREEN ROOF 42-44 MAIN STREET, LIVINGSTON MANOR, NY (HP)

(PH) - CERTIFIED PASSIVE HOUSE, (HP) - BUILT TO PASSIVE HOUSE STANDARDS, (LEED) - LEED CERTIFIED

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RECOGNITION The Bank Lofts - 2023 NYSERDA Buildings of Excellence Award Winner Cooperstown Multifamily Development - 2023 Department of Energy Housing Innovation Award Winner Seminary Hill Cidery - 2021 Phius Passive Projects Design Competition for Commercial/Institutional Seminary Hill Cidery - 2021 Metropolis Planet Positive Regional Award Winner North Street Passive House - Phius design award Rockquist Minor Passive House- 2019 Phius Best Source Zero Honorable Mention 7th & State Hudson Depot Net Zero Multi-Family - 2019 NYSERDA Buildings of Excellence First Round Winner 178 Main Street – 2018 Phius Passive House Projects Competition Honorable Mention Cohen Ice Skating Rink and Fountain - 2018 Connecticut Building Congress Project Team Award City of Hudson Downtown Revitalization - 2017 New York State Downtown Revitalization Grant Capital District Award Winner Silver Lake Conference Center - 2017 Phius Honorable Mention Manitoga/The Russel Wright Design Center received the following awards: •

2022 LIT Lighting Design Award for Visitor Experience & Museum Exhibition

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2022 Chicago Athenaeum, American Architecture Award

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2022 Chicago Athenaeum, International Architecture Award

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2022 Illuminating Engineering Society of North America, NY Chapter, Merit Award

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2021 Society of American Registered Architects, National Council, Honor Award

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2021 Society of American Registered Architects, New York Council, Design Award

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