Coastal New England Harbor House - Patrick Ahearn Architect

This hilltop, shingle-style new-build home has everything people love about coastal New England architecture, including a widow’s walk, decks, oversailing eaves, and multipaned windows with harbor views. You’d never know its waterfront location subjected its design to significant constraints, including a maximum height of twenty-six feet and a setback from the sea.

These restrictions became advantages, however. The gambrel roof gave a classic look while maximizing upper-level square footage, ceiling heights, and outdoor entertaining areas that respect the mandated setback from the water. Placing the pool to the south allows the sun to reach the pool area all day and leaves the harborside spaces free for garden parties and entertaining.

Inside, high ceilings create expansiveness, classical detailing instills nostalgia, and sequential rooms sit along two primary spines, making for long views. These spines open onto three covered outdoor living areas, offering abundant alfresco space—a key component of the clients’ large program.