Summer Escape

When this busy, high-powered couple decided to find a summer residence, they shocked their friends and family when they purchased a 1950s cape in the neighboring town. But, they had a vision and now that the project is complete, they are the envy of friends and family.

After weighing options on a renovation or new build, it was decided that there were too many drawbacks to the existing and by rebuilding, the design could capture the sweet spot of the site.

The new design twisted away from the street to emphasize the view of a nearby landmark over the water, as well as enjoying the light from the south and west.  Modern details with large overhangs provide passive solar opportunities and the crisp metal roof compliments the black windows.

Main spaces open to each other using the structural system to help define the spaces. Keeping a big pantry allowed the south-facing kitchen to keep windows and avoid the need for upper cabinets. The large island provides plenty of room for a family of teenagers and their friends.

One of the best spaces in the house is the porch with a hidden screen system.  Most of the summer, breezes keep the bugs away, and it’s lovely to see through the porch to the view, but on those occasional nights when the weather is calm, the screens come down from above to keep the space comfortable.  A gas fireplace takes the chill off as well.

A main topic of consideration was the desire to keep a breezeway between the garage and the main house – which frames the view to the back and becomes the gateway for many guests who are headed to the pool first.

When this busy, high-powered couple decided to find a summer residence, they shocked their friends and family when they purchased a 1950s cape in the neighboring town. But, they had a vision and now that the project is complete, they are the envy of friends and family.

After weighing options on a renovation or new build, it was decided that there were too many drawbacks to the existing and by rebuilding, the design could capture the sweet spot of the site.

The new design twisted away from the street to emphasize the view of a nearby landmark over the water, as well as enjoying the light from the south and west.  Modern details with large overhangs provide passive solar opportunities and the crisp metal roof compliments the black windows.

Main spaces open to each other using the structural system to help define the spaces. Keeping a big pantry allowed the south-facing kitchen to keep windows and avoid the need for upper cabinets. The large island provides plenty of room for a family of teenagers and their friends.

One of the best spaces in the house is the porch with a hidden screen system.  Most of the summer, breezes keep the bugs away, and it’s lovely to see through the porch to the view, but on those occasional nights when the weather is calm, the screens come down from above to keep the space comfortable.  A gas fireplace takes the chill off as well.

A main topic of consideration was the desire to keep a breezeway between the garage and the main house – which frames the view to the back and becomes the gateway for many guests who are headed to the pool first.

Contractor: Don McGill

Photos: Tommy Colbert