Project Title: The Get Away

Firm: David Matero Architecture

Submitted for Consideration in: Architecture

Client:

Location: Harpswell, Maine

Project-At-a-Glance:
The main house is perched on the rocky coast and is opened to incredible views of the water with disappearing sliding pocket doors. The great room is the center of the house with high ceilings, a 20' kitchen island, and a dining table for a crowd.

Project Narrative:

An existing, modern-designed house has been in the family since the 1960's. Age has not been kind for this large cottage as it was constructed so low to the shore that sometimes high tide would make its way into the basement. In addition, mold and mildew had taken over by poor construction techniques.

An expansion was allowed per shoreland zoning ordinance, and the cottage was expanded to its limit and raised above the allowable flood elevation. Much of the footprint and massing remains, but the contemporary nature of the cottage was tamed and integrated into a new, timeless, aesthetic that was more appealing to the owner. 

The 4,000 sf main house is perched on the rocky coast and is opened to wonderful views of the water with a 24' sliding pocket door that disappears into the wall. The great room is the center of the house with high ceilings, a 20' kitchen island, and a dining room for a crowd.

The wrap-around deck leads to a two-story screen porch that features a polished stainless steel spiral staircase up to sleeping porch with a hanging, raisable, bed. The guest room has its own private roof deck. The interior design, finishes, and fixtures by the interior designer create a unique house perfectly tailored to the owner's family. 

The Get Away enjoys a well-insulated envelope, including a double stud wall and geothermal HVAC system. Although large windows face west, sun shades and special glazing help reduce glare and heat gain. A subtle palette of exterior colors settles the house into the landscape as ir raises out of the ledge.