“We have persistently honed our craft. An understanding of historic architecture and domestic architectural precedents fuels and informs our design process — allowing us to discover and define the details that lead to timeless, remarkable design.”
“The needs of their multi-generational family inspired the campus-like organization of the site and buildings,” Catalano said.
But before construction could begin, substantial work was needed to prepare the site, which used to be a low-lyingisland that was partially filled in the mid-20th century from an existing structure. As sea levels continued to rise, the oceanfront property flooded frequently.
“The first challenge for the client was to build resiliency into the site, as he and his wife plan on passing the house down to their children,” Catalano said.
To help protect and secure the property as well as raise it by several feet, Catalano Architects worked with a civil engineer and environmental consultant to develop a rock revetment wall along the shore of the property. The team also did mitigation planting with native plants that resist saltwater incursion and offer habitat to local fauna while also removing invasive species and augmenting an existing grove of wild cedar trees.
“It all helped to ensure the site was resilient to rising sea levels, flooding, and other environmental threats,” Catalano said.
The project’s primary residence was situated to take advantage of the site’s breathtaking views. Other buildings were designed to respect their unique relationship to the primary dwelling, as well as the relationship of each of the buildings to the sun and the outdoor environment created between the buildings.
In the end, the clients got their Cape Cod dream home, and Catalano and his team completed another project that typifies the firm’s dedication to craft, high standards, and remarkable design that brings joy to others.
“We are very fortunate to have great clients who share our passion for timeless, sustainable design and who wish to bring something to a family heirloom,” Catalano said. “We pride ourselves on being careful listeners who strive for a thorough understanding of how our clients will live in the home that we are designing.”
— Excerpt from New View: A Curated Visual Gallery: Twenty Magnificent Homes by Northeast Architects
Photography by Trent Bell
Photography by Trent Bell
Photography by Trent Bell