Unobstructed Vision, News from Osprey House on Shelter Island

From, Hamptons.com, April 4, 2024

by, David Andrews

During my last interview with Heiberg Cummings’ founders and power couple, Bill and Bernt (“the boys”), I had the rare pleasure of seeing Osprey House. Genuinely excited and impressed, I teased that I would have more information to share in 2024. Since viewing the property in the Fall, Bill and Bernt are entirely in the zone, not allowing anyone to view the space until it is fully ready, despite the considerable buzz the luxe new construction has generated in the Hamptons and internationally.

The excitement about Osprey House is well-warranted; Heiberg Cummings is building quite the resume on Shelter Island, born from their love for the land and lifestyle. “Our love for Shelter Island is no tryst—this is our home,” says Bernt.

“Being settled and established here on Shelter Island over these past years has been a gift and a creative boon. A project on the scale of Osprey House demands continuity of inspiration and execution. Shelter Island has been the enduring throughline at every step of the project—the land, the water, the community, the lifestyle, the architecture,” Bill says.

Stacey Cohen, the exclusive agent representing Osprey House, couldn’t be more excited about this ultra-chic Shelter Island new construction. “I’ve worked with “the boys” for years (Heiberg Cummings) and know what they bring to each project they choose. Still, Osprey House takes my breath away every time I’m there. Natural beauty, inspired design, meticulous construction—this is what luxury in the Hamptons is at its best.”

As builders (and artists), you can tell they are locked in. Even Bernt’s charm takes a backseat as he considers the finishing touches on the property. Bill is as thoughtful as ever but a little (a lot) busier than when we last spoke. “Construction has been phenomenal, smooth, and steady. Everything you could ask for as a builder. We’re extremely proud and excited—and no, you can’t see it until it’s finished in April,” he says with a smile. “Nobody is allowed in until it’s perfect,” Bernt echoes.

Glancing up from his laptop, Bill adds, “We can’t wait for you and the rest of the Hamptons to see Osprey House at our launch party in April.”

Like Osprey House itself, Heiberg Cummings’ approach to unveiling the new construction home is novel, albeit on brand for Bill and Bernt. They are not bringing to market a ‘concept’ or a ‘potential,’ Osprey House is a fully realized vision and deserves a first impression befitting such a beautiful home.

While Osprey House approaches completion and interest in the property continues to pique, Bill & Bernt have decided to decline media inquiries, focusing all of their time and attention on the final touches.

Bernt is certainly not shy but—for now—insists on restraint in talking about Osprey House. “We’re not being coy—we’re artists, Osprey House is our opus. At this scale, you have to be a little obsessive.” Bill clarifies, “After the years of work to conceptualize, source, build, and curate Osprey House, the thought of showing the property as almost finished is out of the question.”

In a statement addressing the many interested publications abroad and in the Hamptons, Heiberg Cummings says: “We are thrilled with all the attention and excitement for Osprey House. In an effort to honor our vision for Osprey House, we have decided to allow the home to take shape before we invite any guests fully. Instead, we look forward to entertaining you all at the Osprey House Unveiling Event in April.”

If you’ve ever met Bill and Bernt or seen any of their work, the Osprey House Unveiling Event will undoubtedly be a night to remember. Moreover, you’ll be able to see how elegantly and effortlessly the property can accommodate guests and entertain.

Patience is a virtue…but so is amazing architecture, so they agreed to let me share some of my initial impressions from my visit in the fall. Beyond that, we’ll all have to wait till April for the Osprey House Launch Event. Contact Stacey Cohen for information about attending the party.

First Impressions on Osprey House: Fall 2023

Seeing Bill and Bernt show off their work in the Fall was fantastic, more of an artist’s pride than a list of specs. “The house is unreal, a yachtsperson’s paradise,” adds Bill, beamed.

Osprey House is the ultimate expression of Heiberg Cummings’ architectural and design ethos—embodying all the team’s hallmarks. Defying belief, not just with unmatched views and next-level luxury, meticulous architectural and design motifs are measured, proportionate, and precise—all to create aesthetic and lifestyle continuity that is seen and felt throughout.

No details were overlooked, starting with the French Door entrance (literally, the door has been imported from France). Inside, rustic charm and contemporary style are fused with reclaimed wood from a farmhouse in Maine, painted white to unify and brighten the interiors. Adding accent textures and color, the tall vaulted ceilings remain unfinished in the entry walkway, library, and first-floor jr. primary.

Textures throughout the home are subtle, never overwhelming, and most notably visible in the reclaimed wood and stucco fireplace on the main level. Ceilings heights are proportionate to the space—with tall, vaulted ceilings in the entry foyer, library and bedroom—beaming all-day natural light and stunning water views.

Thoughtfully designed to accommodate and impress guests, bedrooms on each level are equipped with an optional pocket door to create an ensuite. The “shower with a view” on the first floor will be a highlight for anyone, with a floor-to-ceiling window view to the bay below.

Past the mudroom and connected to the eat-in kitchen, a large butler’s pantry ensures evenings are spent entertaining, with preparation handled out of view.

Warmed by a wall of French doors, the walkout lower level is ready for luxury living all year. Below the elegant stairs with an organically-inspired banister, another large living room is warmed by a wood-burning fireplace and is filled with light all day. The home gym/spa is on another level for tranquility and wellness with a large steam shower and direct egress into the pool. Sunlight dances on the water and splashes ripples of light across the home spa. Laundry is found on the lower level, connected by a convenient 3-story laundry shoot.

The primary suite has walkout patio egress, a large walk-in closet, and a luxe bath with a soaking tub that can be opened to the plein air.

From the rooftop terrace, your commanding view of the Hamptons is doubled, delivering an unmatched vantage. Your guests—and the caterers—will appreciate the upstairs kitchenette with retractable glass awning for service at the rooftop airy.