Seacoast Retreat

The clients, one with a passion for birding and canoe building and the other an accomplished textile artist, dreamed of a modern home that felt welcoming and warm. Each wanted a studio/work area, and a place where they could live comfortably with their extensive collection of modern art. All rooms were to have dramatic views of the beach and ocean, but the size and location of windows had to be carefully balanced with requirements for privacy, energy efficiency, and the display of art. When sitting at the kitchen counter, the owners wanted to look directly at the beach and water. Finally, the television was to be located in the main living area, but it had to disappear completely when not in use.

The resulting 2,900 SF, energy-efficient year-round home reflects the contemporary taste of the owners while harmonizing with the eclectic mix of existing homes in the surrounding community. Strict shore land zoning requirements, and a desire to preserve the neighbors views, left a very small build-able area on which to site the house. Partially built on elevated piers, the house blends into the newly placed native landscaping and into the surrounding natural beachfront. The approach and entry sequence gently draws one into the building where the views to the beach and ocean unfold.

Carefully detailed cabinetry in the open kitchen warms the space with natural wood. Similar cabinets in the living room, seamlessly integrated with the fireplace, provide seating, storage, and display space. When not in use, the television above the fireplace disappears behind sliding doors displaying art. Throughout the house, neutral colored walls provide a perfect backdrop for the owners’ extensive art collection. The raw steel in the railings and the tile backsplashes provide a counterpoint to the wooden cabinetry.

The curved roof and ceilings, the island in the kitchen, and wave pattern in the stair and hallway railings were inspired by the curving forms of water, sand, and coastal vegetation. The curved clinching iron, a favorite tool used by the homeowner in canoe building, was another design reference.

Foam insulation was installed on the outside of the framing to eliminate thermal bridges, and the envelope was tested for leaks before finishes were installed. The house has a HERS rating of 60.

With views of the coastline from every room, this house is a tranquil retreat from both the hectic summer beach traffic and the blustery Maine winters.