COUNTRY HOME

HUNTING LANE (SITE & GARDEN)

Garden Architectural Design | Furniture, Furnishings & Accessories | Construction Administration

16,000 SF – Garden Architectural Design for an Existing Single Family Home in Old Westbury, NY

This project unfolded over several years, evolving thoughtfully in alignment with the client’s schedule, priorities, and financial commitments. The first phase began in 2014 with a full gut renovation of an existing two-story brick residence built in 1997, set on a beautifully proportioned and relatively flat four-acre property. As the family settled into the renewed home, attention naturally shifted outward—toward the landscape and the way the site could support daily life, seasonal rituals, and long-term enjoyment.

The site and garden design commenced in 2016 with the intention of activating every part of the property for the benefit of the family. The program was extensive and carefully layered, balancing intimacy and openness, structure and informality. Close to the house, outdoor living spaces were designed for everyday summer use, including a fireplace, built-in BBQ and kitchen, and areas for dining and gathering. Beyond, the landscape unfolds into a sequence of experiences: a vegetable garden, a cut-flower garden, multiple outdoor seating areas, and a network of trails that connect the various zones of the property.

At the heart of the landscape is the pool and pool patio, designed as both a destination and a social hub. A pergola provides shade during hot summer days, while a generous poolside sitting area—with fireplace and built-in benches—encourages long afternoons and evening gatherings. The trails extend outward, linking these more programmed spaces to a large open grass field, allowing the site to transition seamlessly from curated garden moments to expansive, open terrain.

Although the pool house was constructed later, it was always part of the master plan. Anticipating its future presence, the foundation was installed early in the process to avoid disrupting the completed landscape with heavy equipment. This foresight ensured continuity and preservation of the site as it matured.

Designed and executed as a fully integrated design-build project, the studio remained involved from concept through completion, including the selection and acquisition of outdoor furnishings. The result is a cohesive landscape that supports daily living, seasonal change, and the evolving needs of the family—rooted in a deep appreciation for the outdoors and the life that unfolds within it.

TESTIMONIAL

"My wife and I love Sussan and her team. We have worked with her for nearly six years now across multiple projects and simply do not want it to end. In 2014, after interviewing several firms, we felt that Sussan Lari Architect best exemplified the elegance and taste level we felt most drawn to. We also felt we could trust her. Since then she designed and supervised the total rebuilding / renovation of our 4.5 acre property including an 11,000 square foot residence, the exterior hardscape, swimming pool installation, and a 800 square foot custom-designed two-story cabana. In addition, she worked hand in hand with the landscape and lighting designers.

We could not be happier with the outcome or more satisfied with the process. You will find Sussan to be professionally, artistically, and emotionally involved in your project. Like a true artist, she takes on her work as if it were her own home while making sure she understands you as the client. You will find her very involved with every detail and closely monitoring the trades in a manner which would be impossible for you as the client or even the general contractor to do. She demands and expects a level of perfection that is only possible with a great deal of attention.

We could not recommend her and her firm more highly. A rare combination of taste, discretion, and execution. With something as important as your home, it is truly essential that you find and work with someone you can trust. Sussan Lari and her team have earned their client’s trust"