[hammock] a stand of trees, usually hardwood, growing on elevated areas in the southeastern region of the United States.

Hammock House is a single-family residence designed for a site gifted with a mature and thick oak hammock. The property has over 30 live oaks which form a green and lush envelope for the home to reside within.
The objective for the design is to create an architecture that is transparent while also feeling grounded and permanent. An outdoor contemplation pavilion from which to see and feel the nature around it. The house is to tread lightly on the site to minimize the disturbance to the grounds and existing foliage. We maintained the existing tree footprint and canopy and tucked our structure within and below the space these magnificent trees create. The house contrasts its precious and delicate canopy, yet retains an organic form, constructed from sturdy materials with a rugged texture.
The home is sustainable by the design, systems used, and materials specified. The house is situated to take advantage of sunlight, prevailing breezes and shade. It is designed to cross ventilate and be illuminated with natural daylight throughout. Strategic use of overhangs protects the openings and spaces within from direct sunlight and falling rain. The site design takes advantage of the natural conditions and reduces the need for cooling, artificial illumination, and risks associated with water intrusion. We employed high performance insulation to prevent heat gain from the outside and reduce the cooling load during the hot months. Every system was evaluated to meet conservation and efficiency goals including energy efficient windows, low-flow plumbing fixtures, LED lighting and smart controls and a mix of light colored roofing and green roof planters to reduce heat absorbed by the house. We also specified materials that are sustainably grown and/or procured, that are healthy for the users and that have long life spans, thus reducing waste. The landscaping was also a critical part of the sustainability design. Apart from serving as a beautiful grounds mimicking the canopy above, we used native landscaping to help reduce the need for irrigation throughout.