Design firm: Holesum Studio
Project name: Fern House
Location: Callicoon, Sullivan County, New York, United States
Dimensions: 176 square meters

In the woodlands of Callicoon, New York, Holesum Studio has created a peaceful retreat for a couple, combining minimal environmental impact with a sense of domestic warmth. The elongated structure rests on a bed of ferns, fitting precisely into the open space between two carefully preserved oak trees, and is built entirely from locally sourced hemlock wood—used for the exterior cladding, floors, and interior walls. This gives the house a strong sense of belonging to its surroundings. At the same time, the use of high-performance eco-friendly technologies significantly reduces the building’s environmental footprint. Helical pile foundations are paired with a small cast-in-place section and are driven into the ground without the need for excavation, allowing the trees to be preserved. The home runs entirely on electricity, complemented by a highly efficient catalytic wood stove. The stove itself becomes both the physical and symbolic heart of the design: a central hearth visible from every room, warming the space and inviting a sense of quiet reflection.