Overview

Introducing Shear House, the second project in a series conceived and designed by Palette Architecture. Nestled in the scenic beauty of Stanford, New York, and located a short distance from the villages of Rhinebeck and Millbrook, this home design forges harmonious connections between nature and architecture. In a pursuit to redefine the boundaries between indoor and outdoor living, Shear House is conceived as a simple gabled structure, but transforms by removing a quadrant to invite the landscape in as an integral part of the home. The design features two glazed courtyards that breathe life into covered entries, family rooms, and decks. Situated just off the Taconic State Parkway, Shear House embraces the tranquility of the Hudson Valley while maintaining an effortless link to city life. The residence is sited on over 11 acres, offering a sanctuary of old-growth forest, rock outcroppings, and seasonal wetlands. It’s part of 3-lot subdivision that spans 44 acres, with the two other houses emerging as part of the same visionary partnership. Upon entering through the covered patio, a gracious foyer unfolds, welcoming you with full-height glazing that opens up to a majestic pool view. The first floor features a wrap-around kitchen, dining room, and a spacious living area with soaring ceilings and a central wood-burning fireplace. The thoughtful layout extends to a versatile home office or guest unit with a private exterior door as well as a connected two-car garage. Ascend the architectural steel-structured staircase to the second floor, where four bedrooms, three bathrooms, and a family room await. The primary suite boasts a large walk-in closet and a five-fixture bathroom. A west-facing roof deck and a covered south-facing deck invite you to experience the beauty of the surroundings. The Shear House features a thoughtful curation of materials. Thermo-treated oak slats, blackened steel, and patinated brass adorn the exterior, seamlessly blended with marble, slate, cast concrete, and wire-brushed oak on the interior. Every finish, fixture, and appliance is a touch point of modern luxury, always grounded in the beauty and integrity of the materials. Shear House is fabricated utilizing structural insulated panels (SIPs) and a sophisticated rainscreen system. The construction method ensures durability, energy efficiency, and a faster on-site assembly, minimizing environmental impact. Powered entirely by electricity and equipped with concealed duct split systems for heating and cooling, Shear House provides sustainability without compromising on comfort. Additional amenities include an inground pool, integrated hot tub, hardscape patio and outdoor kitchen. Optional upgrades include geothermal, supplemental solar and more! Shear House is the result of a collaborative partnership brought to life by Palette Architecture’s keen design sensibilities, Hanklerhaus’s cutting-edge construction technology, and 360 Construction’s commitment to excellence. It’s not just a house; it’s a living experience, where architecture and nature interact in perfect harmony.