Eric Reinholdt - Project Architect/Lead Designer
with Elliott + Elliott Architecture

This building marries the familiar with the unexpected in an unusual site at the edge of a harsh sea environment. Three simple cottages linked by a series of decks make up this summer compound which extends over the site of an existing condemned structure. Inspired by local fishing shacks and wharf buildings dotting the coast of Maine, this retreat interweaves large glazed openings with simple taut-skinned New England shingled cottages. This skin is incised to open views to the sea beyond and relies on light steel framing and thin braces to preserve the simple forms eroded toward sweeping views.

The main ‘wharf’ cottage extends over the tidal salt pond below with a structural steel frame anchored to the pond’s granite basin and contains communal living spaces: kitchen, dining, and living rooms. Linking interior space to the views beyond is a cantilevered deck which appears to float above the water. The flanking cottages contain private sleeping quarters and frame views to the surrounding moss covered forest.