Casco Bay Island Retreat
Gulf of Maine’s Casco Bay encompasses sparkling ocean waters, protected coves, piney headlands, and over 130 rock rimmed islands. It is a bountiful natural resource that is habitat to harbor seals, osprey, eagles, striped bass, and an abundance of Maine’s iconic lobster. It is a breathtaking coastal scene that has long been popular with fishermen, sailors, and kayakers alike.
An active young and growing family approached us with a desire to create a home that would give them the ability to thoroughly enjoy this serene landscape. While they wanted a “low-impact” retreat they also wanted the capability to welcome frequent visiting family and friends.
Our site-specific design solution locates the home just beyond Maine’s mandated Shoreland setback and at an orientation that affords aquatic views on two sides of the home. Careful placement and an elongated layout gingerly navigate existing topography and native vegetation to limit disruption of the 6.5 acre park-like parcel. Straightforward forms, extensive transparency, and natural exterior materials work to further meld the structure with its wooded surrounds.
The main level of the home is a singular space separated into distinct living zones by varying levels of spatial division. A generous mudroom leads to the eat-in kitchen and a roomy waterside breakfast banquette. A sunny dining space connects to the living room on opposing sides of a monumental steel clad fireplace. Oversized sliding doors lead to differing outdoor rooms, with calculated and discernible micro-climates, including a well-appointed screen porch. Independent guest accommodations connect to the living room through a glass walled corridor. From Each and every bedroom of the home there are views of the tranquil estuary beyond.
In response to north facing views, the stretched building form, south-facing glass entry and stairwell work to gather daylight into the middle of the home.
- Project Completion: 2016
- Project square footage and cost are withheld per client’s request.
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