Welcome in for a tour of our recently completed Coastal Gambrel Shingle project, a faithful re-interpretation of late Gilded Age resort architecture that takes full advantage inside and out of near-wraparound views.
A hallmark of a VanderHorn design is the sense of beauty achieved through authenticity. In true Shingle Style tradition, that authenticity often comes from a façade that feels as though it has grown over time. Our Coastal Gambrel Shingle project is a prime example, with a prominent central Gambrel roofline and the suggestion of successive additions extending to either side.
Those additions often embrace variation, and we believe those subtle differences add depth and character. Here, that variation is expressed through a mix of dormer styles, diverse window details, changing stone heights, and even the impression of an older porch that has been thoughtfully ‘infilled’ over the years.
The front entry has a greater sense of formality than the rest of the home by utilizing symmetry and detail. Design highlights include an oil and stone drive, 7” thick bluestone treads, and solid bronze handrail. The porch provides shelter to visitors before passing through the elegant elliptical entry with intricate muntin pattern and stain grade door slab set between paneled side lites. Above, a balustrade wraps the porch and a Palladian attic window sits like a crown jewel.
The rear of the home is truly waterfront and required all of the careful planning and execution one might imagine. The southwest-facing facade opens directly onto an expansive patio, lawn, and beachfront, creating a seamless connection to the outdoors. Upstairs, multiple balconies take full advantage of the view, while shed dormers add space and keep the scale modest. On the third floor, a dramatic bay window with beveled corners becomes a standout architectural moment.
An octagonal porch at the southwest end of the house offers the perfect vantage point to take in sweeping views of the ocean and jetty. Stainless steel cable railings fade into the background, creating an airy, open space that invites children to run out to the lawn and encourages adults to settle into a cozy sofa with their favorite cocktail. Octagonal columns and a high-gloss v-groove ceiling reflect the same level of craftsmanship and detail found throughout the rest of the home.
Moving to the interior, the light-filled coastal kitchen features glass-fronted cabinets with a pretty muntin pattern and a fold-up window that opens right up to the deck to conveniently serve food and beverages.
As our Coastal Gambrel Shingle extends along a narrow lot, the design called for a modern, open-concept floor plan. At its heart, the Great Room offers a comfortable seating area anchored by a large cased opening that leads seamlessly into the sunroom. Nearly every window on this side of the home captures sweeping ocean views with French doors opening directly onto the adjacent patio.
In contrast to the divided lite windows at the front of the home, the water-facing facade is defined by uninterrupted panes of glass, enhanced with detailed transoms above and elliptical accent windows that add architectural interest.
In fact, the sunroom is a glazed space with windows on three sides. The sunroom bar features light finishes that complement the bright, airy space, including a custom glass bottle display, integrated lighting, and striking Blue Onyx countertops. The paneled island’s radiused corners are echoed in the curved wicker back bar stools, thoughtfully chosen to coordinate with the rift and quarter sawn white oak floor finish.
Another home design highlight is the elegant staircase spanning three floors, featuring curved window casings, three distinct styles of ornate balustrades, and beautiful newel posts topped with urns. Built-in bench seating lines the hallway, while eye-catching handcrafted wallpaper by Gracie Studio and light fixtures, both selected by Amy Aidinis Hirsch Interior Design, complete the space.
Moving upstairs, there are five bedrooms, each with an en suite bathroom and balcony, on both the second and third floors.
The primary suite offers a sweeping view and a generous balcony. A clever detail is the tabletop television lift, designed so the waterfront vista remains unobstructed whenever the TV isn’t in use.
The primary bathroom design is marked by soothing green hues and an elegant curved vanity.
Another fun feature of the home is the hidden speakeasy in the lower level of the home. The space features chic Art-Deco style, high-gloss blue paint and a large baguette for hanging out.
To see more of our Coastal Gambrel Shingle project, check out our video tour:
If you’re considering hiring an architect, we’d be happy to further discuss your home plans. Give us a call at (203) 622-7000 or shoot us an email at info@vanderhornarchitects.com.