About the Project

An extensive renovation to a 1920s home located at the crest of a thirty-foot hill, with peripheral water views of Greenwich Cove is intended to build upon and refine the character the original house. In the client’s brief of requirements were a number of items reflecting the way they imagined themselves living in their renovated home. A “hip” beach cottage was the term coined to describe the overall look and feel they desired.

The program requirements not only called for expanding the footprint of the existing 2,500 square foot home, but also adding a swimming pool and outdoor entertainment space. Due to the lack of level yard space, it became apparent early in the schematic design phase that the introduction of retaining walls would be necessary to solve a range of design challenges.

Valuable level front yard space was thus created allowing the addition to be pulled forward of the existing house façade, facilitating direct water views from the new living room and master bedroom suite above. Bridging the identically proportioned new and existing wings is a repositioned entrance landing with balcony, decorative rail, and hipped gable dormer above. The design and proportions of which pay homage to the charming shingle cottages of yesteryear.


Process Insights

The interior of the completed six bedroom home, now measuring 6,000 square feet, has a light and airy feel and a neutral color palette, with bleached oak flooring throughout. The effect is one of a beach home with a nod to the contemporary.

Drawing: Old Greenwich Shingle Front Elevation


Before and After

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