Beach House Reimagined

A couple with a large blended family purchased their dream-come-true beachfront property. They loved the charm of the original 1940s home but wanted more space to relax with family and friends and to entertain. The original entry door was restored and painted teal, their favorite color. A wall was removed, and custom millwork was added—including a storage bench, drawers, cubbies, and hooks. The home’s immaculate oak hardwood floors were preserved, sanded, and refinished, running seamlessly throughout the house. Wherever possible, the design prioritized access to the spectacular ocean views.

Living Room

The couple loved the home’s exterior—its height and windows—and didn’t want to alter its character. The existing roof pitches were maintained while creating the illusion of vaulted ceilings inside by transferring point loads to the basement. A shiplap ceiling with oak faux beams, built and installed on-site, ties in with the refinished floors.

Kitchen

Walls separating the dining and entry areas were removed to create a more functional layout with better flow, additional counter space, and uninterrupted views of the ocean. Oak cabinetry grounds the neutral, natural, beach-inspired palette. Custom built-ins were designed to meet the family’s needs, including drawer inserts, LeMans corner units, double-layer spice pull-outs, and hidden storage for garbage, recycling, and compost.

The island and peninsula, with seating for three, feature a stone countertop that extends seamlessly into the window with a waterfall sill detail. Floating shelves that match the cabinetry and flooring allow light to pass through while offering convenient access for guests. Appliances include a microwave with convection oven, a 30” stainless-steel range, and a dishwasher. A pot filler was installed for convenience, particularly for the aging mother. The farmhouse sink accommodates multiple helpers during cleanup, while the built-in espresso machine makes lattes and cappuccinos that rival a barista’s.

The kitchen and laundry areas are finished with 15” x 30” stone tiles in a windswept-sand pattern that complements the beachside setting.

Laundry Room

This space includes floor-to-ceiling millwork, a stacked washer and dryer, and a utility sink. A 36” deep double-door millwork closet was added for additional storage.

Downstairs Washroom

The dropped ceiling and ductwork were removed and relocated, allowing for a complete reconfiguration. The floor was jackhammered to relocate plumbing, and in-floor heating was installed. The updated shower features frameless glass, black fixtures, and built-in millwork shelving. Towel warmers add both comfort and luxury.

Deck & Outdoor Living

A two-tiered, 950-square-foot deck extends the living space and integrates seamlessly with the dining and great room. The top tier is perfect for morning coffee, tea, or small gatherings. Stepping down, the lower level offers built-in features: one side for a firepit, wine, and relaxation, the other for outdoor dining.

The deck is equipped with built-in irrigation, integrated lighting, sunshades, and an automatic wind-sensing awning, creating a year-round entertaining space with panoramic views and starlit nights. The outdoor kitchen includes a built-in barbecue, a wood-fired pizza oven, and a pergola with lighting. Utilities for gas and electricity were discreetly buried beneath interlocking stone pavers. An outdoor shower provides easy cleanup after days on the sand.

Systems & Comfort

The home was upgraded with a new two-zone heat pump system, full insulation, and a vapor barrier. Plumbing and ductwork were redone throughout. An on-demand gas hot water heater ensures efficiency, while the fireplace recoups and recirculates heat and energy for added comfort.