The Mississippi Longhouse draws inspiration from the traditional longhouses of Native American First Nation peoples. Situated near the Louisiana/Mississippi border, this design is crafted as a sanctuary for an accomplished artist, her herbalist husband, and their three sons.
The structure, extending 160 feet, harmoniously integrates a five-bedroom residence with a dedicated artist’s studio. Elevated on three dozen helical piers, the building floats above the forest floor, reducing the building footprint and respecting the topography of the site. The horizontal faceted volume is clad in black metal siding and punctuated by skylights and lightwells, offering a visual contrast to the dense woodland surroundings.
Central to the design is the concept of living harmoniously with nature. The elevated position of the house minimizes landscape disruption while providing dramatic views of the forest from the living and dining areas. The residence and studio are separated by a carport and breezeway, enhancing the sense of connection to the natural environment. The studio, with its north-facing clerestories, invites glimpses of treetops, creating an indoor-outdoor creative space.
Despite local regulations preventing off-grid construction, the Mississippi Longhouse incorporates numerous sustainable features. A water reclamation system, solar panels, and passive design elements reflect the owners’ deep commitment to environmental stewardship. These elements ensure efficient use of resources and highlight the project’s alignment with principles of sustainable living.
Further enhancing the ecological aspect of the site is a demonstration garden for the cultivation of native herbs and plants. This garden serves as both an educational resource and a testament to the family’s dedication to sustainable living and environmental harmony.
The Mississippi Longhouse is a modern reinterpretation of traditional architecture, fostering a close connection between its inhabitants and the natural world.
Category:Private HomesYear:2022Location:Bolton, Mississippi, USA Architects:DNA Architecture+Design, Inc. Design Team: Valery Augustin, Christina Charalampaki, and Caroline FletcherContractor:DNA Architecture + Design, Inc.Client: PrivatePhotographer: Courtesy of the Architects
