Westport River Retreat

Nestled into a private cove on the Westport river in southern Massachusetts, this residence demonstrates how a challenging site can push creativity to an unexpected outcome. The British husband, a kitchen software executive, and his Scandinavian wife who works at a local university, requested a warm minimalist design integrating the latest technology. Programming included two home offices, play space for their toddler, ample outdoor decks, eco friendly materials, and energy independence from the grid. This simple enough design brief was coupled with a challenging set of existing conditions: a small existing footprint which could not be modified due to previous permitting, high impact flood zoning which required break away walls on the lower levels, privacy from the neighbor’s house facing their front door, and a modest budget.
The completed home lives large on a compact footprint, embracing the site with oversized patio doors and decks facing the water. The cantilevered decks and front porch could not touch the ground due to setback restrictions. The main floor blends the kitchen, dining and living room into one flowing space, complimented by voice activated lighting and electronics. Flexible rooms for guests, home offices, and recreation occupy the upper floor with a private outdoor veranda. Solar panels atop the low-slung roof power the fully electric home with car charging station (hoping to be net zero after calculations are determined), and the slatted cedar wood façade discretely provides privacy in front of the windows and entry door. The lower flood plain level integrates 50’ of glass garage doors- easily opened to let the high waters flow through as well as creating a spacious area for indoor/outdoor river side activities for the family to enjoy.