Minimalism in Montauk

Radical new home by architect John Pawson blends with the site’s oceanfront topography

“Montauk House” and British architect John Pawson
“Montauk House” and British architect John Pawson

More minimalism has arrived in Montauk. And while many so-called “minimalist” homes end up looking cheap, this design by British architect John Pawson is about as good as it gets.

Recently completed along the Old Montauk Highway, the frame walls line up perfectly with the site’s Atlantic oceanfront topography. Horizontal lines are everywhere. Heck, even the name is minimalist: “Montauk House.”

The lower deck supposedly blends into the natural flow of the sand dunes and the rustic woods throughout the home are vaguely reminiscent of driftwood.

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Credit: Gilbert McCarragher

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Credit: Gilbert McCarragher

Curbed didn’t love it, writing: “It all seems a bit heavy to us, and we would prefer thinner walls with wider ocean views, but the simplicity is very soothing.”

But over at Designboom, they basically wrote an ode in its honor. It’s probably in the eye of the beholder. [Curbed | Designboom] Christopher Cameron

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