Cove House
Buzzards Bay, MA.
The Cove House is located on a sloping pine and scrub oak covered site in coastal Massachusetts. Traditional New England forms and materials were studied and reinterpreted to create a modern, comfortable and contextually responsive home.
Renewable, sustainably harvested, local and low impact materials are used throughout the home. The sustainable nature of the design elements were fundamental to this project from its initial studies. Building orientation, sun shading, natural ventilation, a white PVC roof and geothermal hydro-air conditioning were all incorporated to produce an efficient temperature controlled space.
The building is sited and the program arrayed to take advantage of the layered bay and cove views to the south. Three masses are organized along a glass circulation spine, simultaneously providing broad borrowed views through the main floor of the house from the sheltered rear courtyard to the water beyond.
Views of the water are featured in a number of details throughout the house. In the living room these views are unobstructed, bringing in the cool green and blue tones to contrast the warm wood interior. The doors open the space to the outdoors on two sides allowing fresh air to pass through. The breakfast nook, having windows on all sides, creates an enjoyable place to share everyday meals.
It is not only important for us to understand our clients needs but also for us to engage with their wants. For this couple in particular books were a passion they shared. To highlight this common interest there are a number of spaces throughout the home with integrated shelving and seating nooks designed to make it easy to hideout with a good book.
The master bedroom and guest rooms alike frame the surrounding landscape with the careful placement of glazing. In the master, the bed wall acts as a room divider while integrating shelving for their more personal book collection.
