ShowCase is an on-going feature series on Archinect, presenting exciting new work from designers representing all creative fields and all geographies. This building was commissioned as a library and writing studio for a critic and historian. It is located on Long Island, about two hours drive east of New York City. The site is adjacent to the client’s home, and is approached on foot through a stand of trees. There is no drive or path. The library sits at the threshold of an open field and a wood. A tidal stream is visible through the woods, at the rear of the site. The building was conceived as a simple structure with a mutable presence in the landscape. It maps a path from the open field, through a doorway at the edge of the woods, to a light filled space set in the tree canopy.

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The interior is defined by douglas fir, books, and light. The exterior, clad in copper, shifts in apparent form and color depending on the light of the day, the viewing angle, and the seasons. The copper can appear reflective and bright, as well as matte and dark. The velvety browns and violets will slowly give way to green.

This project received a Design Excellence Award by the American Institute of Architects New York Chapter in 2008. Andrew Berman Architect was a recipient of the 2009 Emerging Voices by the Architectural League in NYC.

Andrew Berman Architect 

- Andrew Berman Architect was established in 1995. The practice is located in Lower Manhattan and has a staff of eight.

- Andrew Berman received a Masters of Architecture from the Yale School of Architecture in 1988 and a Bachelors of Arts from Yale College in 1984.

- The Architectural League of New York recognized Andrew Berman Architect as an "Emerging Voice" in 2009.

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