Upstate New York has been a favorite place for city dwellers for a long time, whether they want to recharge their batteries over a weekend or take a longer vacation away from NYC or other big cities. Over the last few years, the area has also attracted more and more New Yorkers who choose to leave the urban jungle for good and make a new home in a more laid-back, natural setting. On this page, you can find a range of architectural designs completed by well-known and young architects and designers in this area; from private houses and permanent homes to vacation homes, hotels, art studios, and sculpture parks.

While many projects in upstate New York draw inspiration from the local setting, some of these designs interpret vernacular architecture in creative ways. Contemporary dwellings with asymmetric silhouettes and dark brick walls blend naturally in a lakeside site thanks to minimalist forms and cedar roofs. Some houses re-imagine the traditional barn typology while others feature monolithic designs with black wood cladding. Modern farmhouses that celebrate tradition also provide a great way to nestle a contemporary home in a natural setting.

Regardless of design, these private or public spaces pay homage to the landscapes of upstate New York while immersing inhabitants and guests in spectacular environments. The Catskills welcome hikers, skiers, and snowboarders with open arms while fly fishing retreats provide the perfect solution to slow down and enjoy living in the moment. From tranquil lakes to rushing rivers; from imposing mountains to rolling hills; from dense forests to open fields; and from pastoral countryside settings to friendly towns, this area offers something for everyone.