Coastal Maine

About this project

This seaside home carries a storied history, originally constructed in the early 1800s and first renovated in the early 1900s by a mother and daughter who added a second floor…

This seaside home carries a storied history, originally constructed in the early 1800s and first renovated in the early 1900s by a mother and daughter who added a second floor and introduced modern amenities like indoor plumbing and lighting. The 1990s home saw a transformation by homeowner and resident architect Brian Rodonets, who expanded the home to include an additional bedroom, side entry, and breakfast nook. Most recently, in 2020, the new homeowner, looking to simplify her life and age-in-place, embarked on an extensive renovation that introduced a new staircase, elevator, mudroom, kitchen, sunroom, primary bedroom and bathroom, as well as
comprehensive updates to the interior and exterior finishes. Landscape improvements, including a stone wall, entry walkway, steps, and new plantings, completed the transformation.

The current homeowner, an artist, has further imbued the home with creativity and purpose by incorporating her art studio within the home. Specializing in nautical-themed works, she finds endless inspiration in the breathtaking views from her home.

Despite the challenges of undertaking this project during the height of COVID-19, including product delays, rising costs, and surprises uncovered in the 200-year-old structure, the project team’s dedication and collaboration ensured its success. This renovation has secured the home’s legacy for another generation by honoring the home’s rich history while introducing modern functionality and charm.
The design achieves a balanced interplay of modern and traditional elements, creating an inviting, timeless retreat for the owners to live and entertain.

Project Details
  • Coastal Maine
  • Renovation
  • 2 beds, 3 baths
  • New internal staircase between first and second floors
  • Sunroom converted to year-round family room
  • Natural red cedar shingle siding, Alaskan yellow cedar shake roof, and copper accents create a timeless aesthetic
  • Emphasis on waterfront views from interior living space
  • Custom residential elevator in the mudroom provides access to second floor
  • Original 1900s front door and an 1800s Dutch door were kept with all other doors newly replaced
  • Hidden Pantry and broom closet built into kitchen design
  • Previous screen porch replaced by a sunroom that provides year-round enjoyment
  • Second floor study designed with a darker palette, new bookcase and window seat to emulate old English study
Share this project

This seaside home carries a storied history, originally constructed in the early 1800s and first renovated in the early 1900s by a mother and daughter who added a second floor and introduced modern amenities like indoor plumbing and lighting. The 1990s home saw a transformation by homeowner and resident architect Brian Rodonets, who expanded the home to include an additional bedroom, side entry, and breakfast nook. Most recently, in 2020, the new homeowner, looking to simplify her life and age-in-place, embarked on an extensive renovation that introduced a new staircase, elevator, mudroom, kitchen, sunroom, primary bedroom and bathroom, as well as
comprehensive updates to the interior and exterior finishes. Landscape improvements, including a stone wall, entry walkway, steps, and new plantings, completed the transformation.

The current homeowner, an artist, has further imbued the home with creativity and purpose by incorporating her art studio within the home. Specializing in nautical-themed works, she finds endless inspiration in the breathtaking views from her home.

Despite the challenges of undertaking this project during the height of COVID-19, including product delays, rising costs, and surprises uncovered in the 200-year-old structure, the project team’s dedication and collaboration ensured its success. This renovation has secured the home’s legacy for another generation by honoring the home’s rich history while introducing modern functionality and charm.
The design achieves a balanced interplay of modern and traditional elements, creating an inviting, timeless retreat for the owners to live and entertain.