Coastal Retreat

A couple from just outside Boston purchased this home away from home on Chatham's Stage Neck. They immediately saw the potential to transform the property into a space that would accommodate their dream to entertain family and guests with outdoor living spaces centered around a pool. They also wished to renovate the first floor, kitchen, and basement spaces. SV Design created master plans and pursued a phased strategy so the family could enjoy the summer and utilize the house between phase one and phase two.

The first phase of design included a backyard renovation creating outdoor living spaces that created a strong indoor-outdoor connection, including a fully equipped pool and cabana. The "L" shaped pool with a rectangular spa and sun ledge was designed to maximize pool space with room for swimming laps and pool volleyball games. Vertical boards and hidden doors were added to create massive outdoor storage for kayaks, paddleboards, and a dinghy. A portion of the unused deck was removed to give more light to the basement, and in its place, a Juliet deck was built to accommodate a grill area off the kitchen. The outdoor shower deck was designed with sailcloth above for privacy and its own stair. The flow, accessibility, and function allow for a seamless transition from inside to outside while entertaining and enjoying this home.

The second stage of the project involved renovating the existing unfinished basement and redesigning the kitchen. The basement space now includes a cabana to service the pool area and a new family room, complete with built-in bunk beds, lounge chairs, and a swinging chair. This newly designed space opens to a media room, left for flexible use, overflow dining, or table games. Durable and easily maintained materials were a priority of the homeowners; thus, the existing concrete floor was refinished and stained. The basement cabinetry varies from a simple white shaker in the laundry room to a shutter detail in the cabana and driftwood inspiration in the bathroom.

There are many coastal touches with shiplap wallboard used throughout, porthole mirrors on interior doors, wavy tile in the bathroom, fun marine-themed hardware, a fish tile backsplash in the bar, and custom steel fish sconces. The reimagined kitchen space includes a functional open layout designed for everyday cooking and entertaining. The kitchen's white cabinetry with rope details, complement a countertop reflective of the beach with its sand and light blue swirls. The addition of grass cloth wallpaper completes the transitional coastal aesthetic.

The transformation of this home from the blank slate of a steep, grassy backyard and an unfinished basement that lacked outside access to the newly designed outdoor living sanctuary connected to well-thought-out interior spaces make this home ready for delight and entertaining. Whether hosting a summertime party or gazing at the stars from the spa in the winter, this home is truly a coastal retreat.