For nearly two decades, Roger Ferris has quietly but unmistakably worked to shape the architectural identity of the Hamptons. His approach, which he calls inventive minimalism, strikes a balance between form and feeling, rooted in place. His portfolio includes the celebrated Topping Rose House and The Bridge, along with various private residences. Ferris has developed a style that responds to the East End’s changing light and landscape as well as its cultural environment.
From his Bridgehampton office, one of three along with New York City and Westport, Connecticut, Ferris and his award-winning firm, Roger Ferris + Partners, have maintained a deep, almost meditative connection to the area. His latest trio of Hamptons projects shows a continued evolution: designs that respect the region’s traditions while looking toward the future.
Cobb Isle Residence, Water Mill
Courtesy of Roger Ferris + Partners
Courtesy of Roger Ferris + Partners
Courtesy of Roger Ferris + Partners
Courtesy of Roger Ferris + Partners
Courtesy of Roger Ferris + Partners
Courtesy of Roger Ferris + Partners
Courtesy of Roger Ferris + Partners
Courtesy of Roger Ferris + PartnersLocated in a delicate wetland setting, Cobb Isle Residence serves as an example of integration. Sustainability isn’t just a feature here; it forms the framework. The architecture opens to the outdoors, with every detail tuned to its environment. Living spaces blend into a sculpted lawn, where a custom-made artwork crowns a raised platform that hides the septic system. Inside, a skylight and large floor-to-ceiling windows frame the double-height indoor pool. This design creates a seamless flow between architecture and nature, allowing water, sky, and structure to connect.
Porch House, Water Mill
Courtesy of Roger Ferris + Partners
Courtesy of Roger Ferris + Partners
Courtesy of Roger Ferris + Partners
Courtesy of Roger Ferris + Partners
Courtesy of Roger Ferris + Partners
Courtesy of Roger Ferris + Partners
Courtesy of Roger Ferris + Partners
Courtesy of Roger Ferris + Partners
Courtesy of Roger Ferris + Partners
Courtesy of Roger Ferris + Partners
Courtesy of Roger Ferris + PartnersOn another ecologically rich site, Porch House captures the Hamptons’ unique quality of light. It is positioned to enjoy views of Mecox Bay while balancing openness with privacy. Its cedar-and-glass façade is wrapped in a transparent, louvered screen. A continuous shaded porch goes around the house, providing shelter and framing the coastal landscape like living art. The design reflects resilience in its materials, orientation, and quiet confidence on the land.
Fairway House, The Bridge
Courtesy of Roger Ferris + Partners
Courtesy of Roger Ferris + Partners
Courtesy of Roger Ferris + Partners
Courtesy of Roger Ferris + Partners
Courtesy of Roger Ferris + Partners
Courtesy of Roger Ferris + Partners
Courtesy of Roger Ferris + PartnersAt The Bridge, Ferris focuses on reinterpretation. Fairway House nods to the clubhouse’s iconic shape with mahogany-framed windows and large zinc shingles. However, it is not a copy. Instead, the 6,500-square-foot home embraces the site’s unique spirit with an “upside-down” layout. The primary suite and main living spaces are on the glass-enclosed upper level, floating above the landscape. This design offers sweeping views and a light connection to the golf course grounds. Currently listed with Bespoke Real Estate, the house makes an architectural statement while serving as a home.
Across these projects, Ferris’s work in the Hamptons continues to grow. It’s less about individual gestures and more about an ongoing conversation between architecture and the environment. In his view, inventive minimalism is not just a style but a way to explore the possibilities of a place.
Learn more by visiting www.ferrisarch.com.
