In the first stage of the construction, a traditional, Pennsylvania-style log cabin with squared, interlocking logs was built. In keeping with tradition, the log cabin also features mortice and tenon joints and chinking, where the gaps between the logs are filled with a cementitious mix. And part of the house is clad in local fieldstone another authentic reference.
"We wanted the house to look like an original log cabin that had been added onto over the years," says Rill. "Or perhaps, an original stone house that had a log cabin added to it."
To reinforce the architectural influence, there is a stone tower element, reminiscent of a grain silo, which houses an elevator.
Board-and-batten ceilings feature on the interior, along with hand-hewn wood beams, and trusses have been specially selected, milled and distressed to look as though they have been taken straight from an old barn.
Despite the expanse of wood ceilings and walls, the interior is light and airy, thanks to large banks of colonial-style windows on both sides of the house.
"Transparency right through the house was essential," says Rill. "The windows let the house breathe and make for an immediate connection to the outdoors. In fact, the outdoor living areas are treated as extra rooms that are as much a part of the house as the rooms inside.
"The three main structures that make up the house have been positioned to create courtyards, with the gaps between the buildings framing key views and landscape elements. The relationship between the buildings and the openings created between them are just as important as the buildings themselves."
The main volume accommodates the entry, living room, great room, kitchen, study and guest bedrooms. This is linked by a glazed walkway to a more recent addition that houses a conservatory overlooking the pond, and a large family room-library.