Old Client, New Project
Let’s dive into this project: a repeat client, a fresh start, and a completely new direction. We previously worked on this client’s historic Boston-area home—full of timeless charm and character. It’s the kind of estate you only find in New England, with intricate millwork, classic architectural details, and traditional exteriors—all brought to life with cool furniture and fun art.
Now, this client is building a modern waterfront retreat in Osterville. Think: Sleek lines, open spaces, and ocean views. We’re teaming up with PSD—Polhemus Savery DaSilva, an integrated architecture and construction team on Cape Cod. With their architects, landscape designers, and construction crew in the mix, we are in good hands.
We started with lead architect Mackenzie Pratt’s thoughtful plans. Collaborative, sharp, and always open to feedback, he worked closely with us and the client to define how “life in the new house” should look and feel. Together, we refined details to align with the client’s vision. More bookshelves, a freestanding tub, and a kitchen you can open for the view or close off when hosting—we took the time to figure out what works best for the homeowner. Mackenzie welcomed ALL of our input (a true team player) and the end result feels just right—practical, inventive, and perfectly suited for everyday living.
Room With A View
The preliminary renderings are complete, and this living room is stunning. A two-story space, the natural wood ceilings stretch upward. Sliding doors on one side open to a pool, while a wall of windows draws you in and out, framing ocean views that are impossible to ignore – the design is equal parts expansive and inviting. The living room transitions to a dining room with 8-foot ceilings, the change in height making the living room feel even grander by contrast. We’re still working on furniture selections and placement—these are just placeholders—but you get the idea. Not shown: a fireplace on the interior and wood-burning fireplace outside.
Groundwork
Step outside, and it’s all about flow. The pool anchors the outdoor spaces, surrounded by a covered porch and inviting living areas. Lead landscape designer Rob Calderaro created an environment that connects the home to its natural surroundings—a challenging task given the waterfront conditions and major grade changes on site. While we don’t design exteriors, we see them as extensions of the home—spaces that deserve furniture just as durable and functional as their indoor counterparts. PSD laid the groundwork beautifully, and we’ll bring it to life with chaise lounges, umbrellas, and the final touches.
Al Fresco Dining
The covered porch offers views of both the pool and the ocean. An opening in the roof above allows sunlight to filter through, adding a unique design detail—like a skylight, but not quite. Beyond the porch, a deck spans the entire back of the home, creating a natural connection to the outdoors. What you don’t see are the planned screen panels that can be pulled down to keep bugs out of the dining area. We’ll be reusing an amazing Gloster dining table and simple chairs from the client’s other home, keeping things simple and practical for easy al fresco dining.
Looking Ahead
We’re deep into interior elevations and exploring color palettes that will shape tile and material selections. This Cape Cod new construction project leans into vintage finds, unique fixtures, and a creative approach to reusing furniture from the client’s previous home – all pairing with PSD’s modern design. Stay tuned as the vision unfolds! Learn more about our new construction home design work and explore other new construction projects we’ve recently completed.
Architecture & Landscape Architecture: Polhemus Savery DaSilva (PSD)
Design Lead: Mackenzie Pratt, PSD Senior Architectural Project Manager
Landscape Design Lead: Rob Calderaro, PSD Senior Landscape Architect
