Maritime Forest Reserve

The owners presented a wonderfully challenging design endeavor: design a private, Nantucket-inspired beach retreat for a heavily wooded internal property 500 yards from the beach and closely surrounded on three sides by existing homes—while preserving numerous live oaks that give the property its character and simultaneously block view from the street. No Problem. The studio devised an unbundled concept that separated the guesthouse from the main dwelling, allowing the live oaks to remain nestled between the two buildings while filtering light upon the entry facade.

A classic gambrel shingle style roof bends away from the reach and canopy of live oaks. The house is a compact 4500 square feet with a modulated open plan, providing connection and privacy, while allowing sunlight to spill in from each side of the home into the main living space. The pool deck and outdoor living area act as the gathering space for friends staying in the cottage and family in the main house. Live oaks emerge from the deck, providing a connection to nature and reinforcing a sense of separation between the closely positioned guest cottage and main house.