Located just 36 feet from water’s edge and with spectacular views over the Oyster Pond and the church steeples in town, this 1950's Ranch was demanding  a renovation to bring it more in line with its multi- million dollar location. A Pandora’s Box of building constraints enmeshed the project. A pre-existing non-conforming footprint, sensitive proximity to both coastal conservancy and inland wetlands, lot coverage and height restrictions placed the project before Chatham’s Zoning Board of Appeals and Chatham Conservation. Neighbors' concerns about a “mega house” were also a factor.

After numerous planning sessions, removing the home and utilizing the existing footprint with slight modifications seemed the best direction.

A plan was created for a 3800s.f., four bedroom, three and a half bath cedar-shingled contemporary Cape with a more modest front belying the vast waterfront exterior with floor to ceiling glass windows, multiple decks, patios and octagon shaped dining area jutting towards water’s edge. The simple front was made more interesting by the addition of an octagonal shaped entrance way with upper and lower windows. It not only accomplished a unique entrance, but flooded the front rooms with natural light. A two car under garage built into the hillside was also  utilized to reduce the “mass” of the house.

Originally built on spec, the project was purchased during the building process. The new owners brought  diverse tastes, ranging from love of the clean lines offered by a modern contemporary home to a more traditionalist view with a love of crown molding. To satisfy both parties, a fusion of the different tastes was necessary.

This was accomplished by use of  an open floor plan with ample glass to capture the dramatic water vistas which first unfold from the entrance way. Warm six inch red elm floors in a natural finish mesh nicely with a clean-lined modern kitchen with black granite countertops. Crown molding circling the great room complement the flat front granite fireplace made contemporary by lack of a mantle. The second floor is accessed by a modern floating staircase, placed in the rear of the room as not to impede the 180 degree water views. The stairs themselves are a blend of both the homeowners' taste's; combining red elm treads with a powdered coated metal handrail evoking memories of a fine cruise ship. All the principle bedrooms were located to have commanding views over Oyster Pond and decks were designed with Plexiglas to limit any possible obstructions to the views.

The exterior of the property was built with cedar shingles made to weather and mellow with time. Coastal landscaping, rock retaining walls, and infinite bluestone patio help anchor the property as it now sits, in good company and worthy of its spectacular natural location at water’s edge.