LongHouse encompasses nearly 16 acres of East Hampton Township's great North Woods. Since he acquired the property in 1975, Jack Larsen has laid out an entrance drive lined with majestic cryptomerias, established lawns and ornamental borders, and defined major spaces as settings for plant collections and sculpture.

The long low berms that divide the site also recall the boundaries of farm fields that occupied the site until it was abandoned for agricultural use in 19th century. Much of the deciduous canopy of second growth native trees has been preserved.

Finding inspiration in 7th century Shinto shrine at Ise in Japan, Larsen decided to build the house on the property in 1986. House was designed by architect Charles Forberg and built by Joe Tufariello.