Summer on the Clock
Outdoor spaces in New England are all about maximizing short summers through thoughtful, seasonal design. Northeast summers are fleeting—gone before you’ve had the chance to settle in. These brief months are a race to soak up the sunshine, gather around firepits, and take in every warm breeze. Designing outdoor spaces here isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about making the most of every moment before winter rolls back in with a vengeance.
Whether it’s savoring a quiet morning coffee or gathering for a family dinner al fresco, these outdoor spaces become true extensions of the home—providing not just comfort, but a deep connection with nature and the seasons. This is what New England interior design (I mean, exterior design), is all about – making the most of each space.
Urban Outdoor Living (AKA Backyard Tetris)
In the city, outdoor spaces are prized escapes. A garden-level patio feels like a weekend retreat, a rooftop deck turns into a summer sanctuary, and even a small balcony becomes a personal oasis—neighbor’s laundry line and all.
In a recent Boston brownstone renovation, we created not one but three outdoor spaces. A garden patio for lounging, a second-floor deck for grilling and lunching, and a rooftop escape complete with a sun-blocking sail. We love that this home offers views of green trees, garden hydrangeas, and the city skyline. Each view from different spaces throughout the home. See more of this brownstone’s interior design in Boston Home, and in our portfolio.
Poolside, No Excavator Needed
Our South Street project proves you don’t need a gut-landscape renovation to make a poolside area feel posh. Instead of tearing up the dated concrete surround at this historic Hingham home, we zhuzhed things up with designated zones: dining, lounging, and more lounging. New sliding doors connect the kitchen to a dining area. Teak loungers beckon you to nap by the pool. And facing sofas are perfect for everything from evening cocktails to the occasional accidental staring contest. It’s all about having options.
Vineyard Vibes
A wraparound deck becomes the heart of the home, complete with angled chaise lounges for laid-back afternoons and a dining area close enough to the kitchen to keep meals effortless. And, of course, the essential outdoor shower—because rinsing off under the open sky is as much a Vineyard tradition as it is a luxury, even if the water pressure keeps you guessing.
A Breezy & Open Feel
For one suburban family, we redefined “outdoor living” with a custom pool house. Featuring a kitchen, grill area, and spacious dining zones—plenty of room for everyone. Inside, oversized sliding doors connect indoor and outdoor spaces, creating a breezy, open feel with seamless flow. (Architectural credit to Peter Twombly of Estes, Twombly + Titrington Architects).
Fleeting Seasons
Neortheast outdoor living is all about maximizing the region’s fleeting outdoor season. We designed these outdoor spaces with purpose, using durable furniture and practical storage to handle whatever the weather brings. Stackable chairs and heavy-duty umbrellas make it easy to shift from sunny days to stormy skies without missing a beat. These spaces capture the spirit of New England interior design—practical, adaptable, and built to enjoy every warm day while it lasts.
