This tiny, beautiful site lies at the edge of Oyster Pond marsh, with views across the bird-filled landscape of the wetlands and pond. The existing cottage required extensive renovation, which was not allowable as it was in the flood plain. It was, therefore, torn down, and the owner made a deep commitment to respecting the fragility of the environment, while creating a new cottage on the footprint of the old.
The owner collaborated closely with us through the entire process, and together we created a one and a half story jewel box of craftsmanship and meaning. Balconies, dormers, and bays expand the limited footprint, while exposed structural fir framing and rich details throughout create a consistent cottage language.
The interior exudes warmth and charm, with structural fir exposed framing, vertical grain fir walls and floors, reverse board and batten wainscoting, colored plaster walls, nooks, built-ins, benches, and cut-out details of cattails and birds. The children’s playroom has a large chalkboard, a corkboard, a daybed, and plenty of toy storage.
The outdoor shower enclosure is nature itself, with a rain head mounted to a locust tree. A rustic tree house for the children nestles in the small side yard, and a basket runs on a line from the house porch to the tree house, allowing treats to be delivered!
Builder: Thoughtforms Corporation
Landscape Architect: Stephen Stimson Associates
Photographer: Dan Cutrona