Get high! That became the mandate to building a site-inspired home in a wooded setting, for an extended family. We knew that with each flight of steps above the forest floor, we could offer new lookouts on the landscape and, ultimately, an unparalleled Finger Lakes vista.   

So, we went vertical. Five levels start in the woods and reach for the sunshine.  Seven structured outdoor spaces spin out in all four directions, along the way. They almost double the total living space! 

From the outside, a red-paneled, skylit stair tower tells this story of upward mobility. Inside, stair climbing is an experience of exiting and re-entering the living spaces as you move up towards the light, with framed glimpses of nature at each mid-landing.  

OUTlook is close to the road, has a small footprint, and sits mostly on posts over undisturbed soil.  All this means minimum site disturbance. The forest trees are happy to have their roots left alone. 

Upon arrival, you cross a footbridge to the front door. Stepping inside you are in a modest, single room that functions as entry, living, dining and kitchen. Less modest is when the window wall opposite the entry slides away and the living room is conjoined with a generous outdoor deck.  

Our tower strategy permitted us to economically stack the four sleeping spaces and bathrooms. The entry level squeezes in one accessible bedroom for grandpa. Upstairs, reduced floor plates mean that you’re never far from a roof deck, to remind you why you came.  

Finally, a Villa Savoye-esque choreographed climb spins you from fourth floor deck to fifth floor perch: 360° of fresh air, tree canopies and a sightline to Keuka Lake. 

The result of all this? A Finger Lakes Lookout to broaden your outlook.