MEET THE ARCHITECT

TWO ARCHITECTS AND INTERIOR DESIGNERS CREATE A CONTEMPORARY CORRELATION WITH NATURE

Why architecture? Fox: I was always interested in buildings—starting with Legos probably. I grew up in Asheville, North Carolina, and I remember being very taken by the Biltmore Estate and the attention to every detail in and around it. Later when I was applying to universities, I realized the potential of architecture to change the places we that live in. Stone: I've always enjoyed drawing, especially houses. As a child my drawings were places that I could inhabit in my imagination. It's amazing how a playful interest can become an occupation. What is your design philosophy? Rooted in the modernist tradition, our philosophy is to create clean and simple spaces that are responsive to the environment. What do you enjoy about working in the Hamptons? Fox: I love the ocean and the wonderful, cool breezes on Long Island's coast—it's quite inspiring. Stone: I've always loved the beach. The smell of the ocean, the feel of the air and the sounds of the tide are all familiar childhood experiences that excite the imagination. How has your style evolved? In the beginning, we had a tendency toward more minimal interiors, but thankfully we've been challenged by clients who have different design aspirations. There is always continuity to our work, but each project is client-specific. What are your favorite materials? We tend to prefer natural materials—things that evoke a bit of romance. An example would be sun-bleached teak or bronze with a hand-oiled finish. Name a source of inspiration. Some of the later work by John M. Johansen and other architects who practiced in New Canaan, Conn., in the late 1950s and early '60s. They have a quality that softens the modernist "box." It's inspiring to see that modernism can have a romantic side, too. Also the Portuguese architect Alvaro Siza. What would be your dream home? We recently purchased a lot near Aspen in a stunning place called Missouri Heights. Our dream house will take advantage of the incredible views of Sopris. We love architecture that becomes part of the place surrounding it—when the lines between indoor and outdoor are blurred. Name someone or something that has had a profound impact on your work? Fox: My mother. She has a "no fuss" attitude about things. I think I inherited that. I don't like things to become so overly complicated that it spoils the beauty of what we try to do. Describe your clients. They are all very savvy and interesting people. Many are major contemporary art collectors. We've learned from them and now really understand how to integrate art and architecture to create a cohesive environment.