Butter yellow vinyl exterior with exposed plywood subfloor interior. These were the first characteristics that screamed at us as we climbed up the front deck of this home for the initial consult (which was being engulfed by weeds, even 12’ above the ground!) We considered first what was ahead to bring this modest home on the water up to speed with our young client’s more refined, contemporary expectations for an open floor plan and desire for floor-to-ceiling glass everywhere to maximize views of the water.

Collaboration of nature and modern home design

Often when motivations point to a more modern interior space, the direction of materials and furnishings leans to hard lines, harsh juxtaposition of cold finishes and a level of simplicity that can feel sterile. When broad horizons, airy space and modern inclinations was on this client’s wish list, we dug in on nailing the right overall schematic flow, affording opportunity for natural textures and selections in a warmer, neutral palette to collaborate in order to develop harmonious ambiance and depth. Notable project highlights were efforts to open up and carve out a chef’s kitchen with modern appliances, bold wooden & quartz-clad bar for gatherings, an extra guest bedroom off the entry that could double as a hide-away video game room, and a master suite with a more suitable layout for work at home office setup, optimized waterfront view potential, and fresh bathroom aesthetics.

Maximizing the architectural potential

Broad glass sliders, floor-to-ceiling fixed pane windows in a dark bronze metal finish and a magnificent custom mahogany front door added great architectural features to this formerly mostly characterless home. Appointing the right wall coverings and solid surface materials furthered the goals of flow, serenity and balance. Achieving a beautiful symbiosis of rich darks and soft lights, coastal-inspired textures in the furnishings – everything from the bleached wood-look tile floors to the thin bamboo burnout-pattern window treatments – work towards a multi-layered, coastal  contemporary vibe inspired by the home’s natural surroundings that the client loved.

This client trusted the process; let us run with our vision for something completely unique and landed with an amazing turn-key project that exceeded all expectations, particularly with COVID and a hurricane taking out bridge access to the property. A primary residence sure – but we definitely also created a getaway in it’s own right. We love the transformation and know this home’s value increased substantially by the time we were done!