Atlantic House by Bates Masi + Architects: A Modern Tribute to Coastal Heritage

  • Project: Atlantic House
  • Architect: Bates Masi Architects
  • Location: United States, Amagansett, New York
  • Year: 2017
  • Area: 213 m2

Nestled in the dunes of Amagansett, New York, the Atlantic House by Bates Masi + Architects stands as a harmonious blend of modern design and historical reverence. Drawing inspiration from the nearby 1902 U.S. Life-Saving Station—a structure pivotal in coastal defense during World War II—the residence pays homage to its maritime surroundings.

Design Inspired by Maritime Legacy

The architectural narrative of the Atlantic House is deeply rooted in the utilitarian design of the adjacent Life-Saving Station. Echoing the station’s practice of suspending equipment from exposed beams, the home’s interior features:

  • Suspended Staircase: A central staircase hangs from overhead beams, with supporting rods doubling as guardrails.

  • Floating Fireplace: A wood-burning stove rests on a cantilevered steel shelf.

  • Hanging Fixtures: Lighting elements are attached using standard beam clamps, emphasizing the structural aesthetic.

  • Swinging Chair: A nod to maritime hammocks, a chair is suspended from the living area’s cantilevered section.

This approach not only celebrates the functional aspects of the historic station but also introduces a dynamic interplay of form and function within the modern living space.

Materiality Reflecting Coastal Environment

The exterior materials were meticulously chosen to withstand and narrate the coastal climate’s story:

  • Cedar Siding: Thick cedar boards are hung using a system of bronze bars, allowing natural expansion and contraction. Over time, the cedar weathers to a silvery hue, mirroring the aging process of traditional seaside structures.

  • Bronze Detailing: The bronze bars develop a rich patina, transitioning from dark brown to green, adding depth and character.

  • Weathering Steel: Used around the building’s base, this material forms a protective rust layer, marking the home’s elevation above the floodplain and resonating with the rugged coastal landscape.

These materials not only ensure durability but also create a living facade that evolves with the environment.

Spatial Configuration and Environmental Considerations

To minimize the ecological footprint and respond to the flood-prone site:

  • Elevated Living Spaces: The main living areas are positioned above the bedrooms, reducing the building’s footprint and offering panoramic ocean views.

  • Roof Deck: An elevated deck provides a modern “lookout,” reminiscent of the Life-Saving Station’s observation points.

  • Flood Resilience: The home’s design allows floodwaters to flow beneath, reducing hydrodynamic pressure and potential damage.

This thoughtful configuration ensures the residence remains both functional and respectful of its sensitive coastal setting.

Minimalist kitchen island with suspended shelving and black faucet in Atlantic House.

Photography © Bates Masi + Architects

Floating staircase with black vertical metal railing in modern interior.
Photography © Bates Masi + Architects
Modern kitchen with central island, bar stools, and wood paneling.
Photography © Bates Masi + Architects
Cantilevered upper volume above poolside deck in Atlantic House.
Photography © Bates Masi + Architects
Modernist architectural facade of Atlantic House with pool and open terrace.
Photography © Bates Masi + Architects
Interior view from staircase toward glass-framed living space and pool.
Photography © Bates Masi + Architects
Open plan kitchen and living area with sunset views in Atlantic House.
Photography © Bates Masi + Architects
Front exterior of Atlantic House glowing warmly at dusk.
Photography © Bates Masi + Architects
Tiered deck steps and grilling area on the upper terrace of Atlantic House.
Photography © Bates Masi + Architects
Dining area seen from the deck of Atlantic House with expansive ocean views.
Photography © Bates Masi + Architects
Architectural corner of Atlantic House with cantilevered glass and vertical wood fence.
Photography © Bates Masi + Architects
Entry to Atlantic House illuminated at dusk with wood cladding and staircase.
Photography © Bates Masi + Architects

Posted by Bates Masi Architects

Bates Masi + Architects LLC is an award-winning, full-service architecture firm with over 60 years of experience rooted in New York City and the East End of Long Island. Renowned for its meticulous attention to materiality, craftsmanship, and environmental context, the firm delivers bespoke design solutions tailored to each client's unique needs and aspirations. The practice is known for its thoughtful integration of research across multiple disciplines to enrich the built environment and elevate daily life. Their diverse portfolio spans residential, commercial, hospitality, and institutional projects across the United States, Central America, and the Caribbean. Whether urban dwellings, schools, boutique hotels, or custom furniture, each project reflects the studio’s philosophy of design excellence and contextual sensitivity. Since 2003, Bates Masi has earned 243 design awards, with features in leading publications such as Architectural Digest, The New York Times, Interior Design, and Dwell. The firm was honored as one of Residential Architect Magazine’s "50 Architects We Love" and was inducted into the Interior Design Hall of Fame in 2013. Their design legacy is documented in two monographs: Bespoke Home (2016) and Architecture of Place (currently available). Leadership Paul Masi, a native of Montauk and Harvard GSD alumnus, joined the firm in 1998 after working at Richard Meier & Partners. He brings a refined design sensibility rooted in modernist principles and contextual innovation. Harry Bates, the founding partner, studied architecture at North Carolina State University and began his career at Skidmore, Owings & Merrill before launching his own practice in New York City. In 1980, he relocated the firm to Southampton, and its current headquarters is in a custom-designed office in East Hampton.