Second Time Around

This article details the extensive renovation of a Cape Cod home owned by Liz and Richard, a Newton couple. Initially, the sprawling Cape, purchased nine years prior in East Orleans, lacked appeal due to several piecemeal additions from the 1980s and 1990s. Despite its location half a mile from Nauset Beach, Liz felt disconnected from the house, stating it 'never felt like my house,' and consequently, did not decorate it for seven summers. The property's existing features, such as a prominent hill created by a new septic system installation, further contributed to her dissatisfaction. The couple's five children, however, enjoyed the property for its relaxed atmosphere, a stark contrast to their more formal Newton home. While the property included a clay tennis court and later saw the addition of a pool and basketball court, the family primarily spent their time at the beach, with the house serving a functional rather than aesthetic purpose. Liz initially considered demolishing the house, but in 2011, she consulted with Canton builder Steve Overstreet of S. J. Overstreet Construction and Brookline architect Kent Duckham. They proposed retaining the foundation and altering the existing structure, a more time-efficient and cost-effective solution than a complete rebuild. A key objective of the renovation was to relocate the kitchen to overlook the backyard, which had previously felt disconnected from the interior. Liz entrusted much of the design decisions to her team, particularly interior designer Lindsay Bentis, known for her West Coast aesthetic, who had also designed their Newton home. The renovation, without significantly increasing square footage, involved strategic reconfigurations. The first-floor master bedroom was converted into a guest suite, and the new master bedroom was situated above the garage, complete with an added bathroom. The upstairs layout was redesigned to accommodate two large bedrooms, each with its own bathroom, for the couple's children and their friends. Custom bunk beds and trundles were integrated into the dormers, providing ample space for sleepovers. The former kitchen area was transformed into a mudroom featuring colorful tile flooring, a walnut built-in cabinet, and an antique locker for beach essentials. The new kitchen, now positioned at the back of the house, became a bright, airy space with views of the backyard. A notable feature is the 'ice cream window,' an operable pass-through to an outdoor counter on the bluestone patio, a design element Bentis recalled from her upbringing in Los Angeles. Although Liz acknowledged its slightly less practical application in the Northeast, the family's cats found it a convenient escape route. The conspicuous septic system, an initial point of contention, was addressed through collaboration between Bentis and Liz's landscaper. They transformed the area into a wildflower garden with a natural stone retaining wall, effectively concealing the septic system. Liz reflected that living in the house for seven years prior to renovation provided valuable insights, allowing her to realize that only specific modifications were necessary rather than a complete demolition. The result is a tasteful and peaceful home that harmonizes with its surroundings, fulfilling her long-held desire for a cherished summer retreat. #HomeRenovation #CapeCodHome #InteriorDesign #WestCoastAesthetic #KitchenRedesign #ArchitecturalRenovation #FamilyHome #CustomDesign #LandscapeDesign #HomeRenovation #CapeCodHome #InteriorDesign #WestCoastAesthetic #KitchenRedesign #ArchitecturalRenovation #FamilyHome #CustomDesign #LandscapeDesign

138 months ago

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