Architecture

Elevated Simplicity in New York: FORMA House on a Hill

Set in the Hudson Valley, the House on a Hill connects seamlessly with its natural backdrop.

Por: Rubén Carrillo September 30, 2025

FORMA House on a Hill is designed for a nine-acre site in Hillsdale, New York. / Photo FORMA

The pandemic years encouraged many to reconsider what home truly means. Out of that reflection came the FORMA House on a Hill, a residential project that blends architectural innovation with the restorative qualities of nature.

FORMA House on a Hill is designed for a nine-acre site in Hillsdale, New York. This home demonstrates that compact living can still deliver extraordinary beauty and functionality.

A Modest Footprint, Expansive Vision

The structure measures 1,500 square feet yet feels far larger thanks to vertical planning and thoughtful spatial organization.

By stacking the living areas, the house reduces environmental impact while offering expansive views across the Hudson Valley. Each level is designed to maximize light, privacy, and connection with the wooded surroundings.

Architecture as a Sculptural Statement

The house appears as a bold black cube set at the crest of a gentle hill. Clad in dark cedar with precise black metal detailing, the exterior feels simultaneously modern and timeless.

Depending on perspective, the architecture shifts—sleek and minimal from one angle, playful and unexpected from another.

Pentagon-shaped windows, angled supports, and a carved-out deck add distinctive personality.

Interiors That Embrace Warmth

While the exterior exudes strength, the interior offers a softer dialogue. Warm textures and natural palettes frame a double-height living room illuminated by eight-foot windows.

A fireplace integrated into custom millwork connects the kitchen, dining, and lounge areas, creating a central hearth around which life revolves.

Privacy is achieved through three ensuite bedrooms, each designed with autonomy in mind.

A Home Designed for Flexibility

The layout supports diverse living arrangements, from families to creative groups or solitary retreats. Seasonal stays feel as natural here as long-term residency.

The adaptability of the FORMA House on a Hill reflects an evolving idea of domesticity—one where architecture responds to life’s changing rhythms.

The Craft Behind the Concept

The project was spearheaded by architects Miroslava Brooks and Daniel Markiewicz, co-founders of FORMA.

Along with team member Kyle Troyer and Kalmen Construction, they developed the house through several iterations during pandemic-era challenges.

Rising costs and material shortages required bold rethinking, eventually producing a compact yet dynamic design. The outcome embodies resilience and creativity.

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Sustainability Through Design Choices

Efficiency is evident in every detail. The minimized footprint reduces foundation work and energy demand. Large windows capture daylight, limiting artificial lighting.

Natural ventilation pairs with locally sourced materials, ensuring a reduced ecological impact. Ethical construction practices resonate throughout the project.

Living in Dialogue With the Land

Set in the Hudson Valley, the home connects seamlessly with its natural backdrop. The cube stands assertively yet harmoniously, acknowledging the forest and pond nearby without overwhelming them.

Since its founding in 2018, FORMA has pursued architecture that balances academic rigor with practical execution.

With offices in New York, Los Angeles, and Philadelphia, the practice explores how domestic and civic spaces shape collective experience.

The FORMA house on a hill exemplifies this philosophy, combining clarity of form, playful exploration, and innovative programming.

Quick Questions & Answers

Where is the FORMA House on a Hill located? It is in Hillsdale, New York, within a nine-acre wooded site.
How many bedrooms does the house include? The home contains three ensuite bedrooms, each offering privacy and flexibility.
What defines the home’s architectural style? A sculptural black cube with contrasting warm interiors and playful detailing.
Who designed the project? The architecture was created by FORMA, led by Miroslava Brooks and Daniel Markiewicz.