A Great Ascent

A seaside property levels up in more ways than one.

Nothing says vacation mode like an immediate view of the sea—it’s the ultimate symbol of departure. Though the sounds of seagulls and the scent of salty air were cues of a seaside locale, this Cape Cod beach house was obscured by its own limitations: a nondescript entry, obstructed views and untapped potential on all three floors. 

To solve those issues and infuse the home with their own essence, the homeowners called on ARCHWRIGHT Fine Home Builders, Catalyst Architecture and Interiors, and Mrs. Paranjape Design + Interiors to perform an extensive renovation, carried out in two phases. Though phase one revitalized second floor bedrooms and covered much-needed repairs, phase two served as a driving force in unlocking the property’s full potential.  

“From an architectural standpoint, the central part of the design was the approach and arrival into the house,” says Todd Carson, Co-Vice President and Architect at Catalyst, noting that the original entry was crowded by an obstructive staircase and adjoining wall. “The homeowners were willing to do whatever it took to move that stair.”

Though no easy feat, the strategic maneuver created a sense of openness and connectivity, allowing natural light and ocean views to permeate throughout the space. “That stair was really a collaborative effort, and it was magnificent to see everybody work together to make it come to life,” shares Galen Farrar, Project Manager at ARCHWRIGHT. “It connects the home from top to bottom, both visually and physically.”

The striking stair design connects all three levels of the home while also creating a sense of transparency, with glimpses of the water visible from every vantage point. It features grain-matched oak treads, transparent glass guardrails with seamless turns, and a smooth, radius-edge handrail. Provided by Blu’s Shower Door, the glass panels were positioned by the ARCHWRIGHT team to conceal hardware, which affords a sleek look.

Just beyond the stair, an open concept kitchen, dining, and living space was also designed to highlight the views, with the addition of large windows and sliding doors. “It’s not your typical great room,” says Kurt, Co-Vice President and Architect at Catalyst. “We think it’s more interesting.”

With continuity and functionality in mind, Lori Paranjape designed the interiors to embrace the home’s newfound sense of space. “We didn't want stark beginnings and endings. We wanted it to feel like a through and through experience,” says Paranjape.

Throughout the home, matte finishes, natural tones, and mid-range neutrals mingle with sleek, versatile furnishings that contribute to a relaxed, coastal ambiance. “We really had to consider how the family would be using the space, and design it in a way that would allow them to live really beautifully,” emphasizes Paranjape.

The childrens’ bedrooms underwent a transformation of their own, where the focus was on creating cozy spaces for the family and their frequent summer visitors. Wallpaper was key to adding texture and personality to each space, creating a sense of departure from their year-round bedrooms. 

The kitchen, with a separate workspace and spacious pantry, features open shelving, a servery window, and a stunning Naica Quartzite backsplash sourced by Ricciardi Marble & Granite. “The subtle Gold Veins and cream color tones of the Naica Quartzite brought together a wonderful kitchen design,” says the team at Ricciardi Marble & Granite. “Being precise and detailed is always our main goal.” The glistening stone also carries into the counter tops and hood. “To execute the kitchen hood, we needed to be very precise with the dimensions to make it happen,” notes Brian Lafauce, Owner/President of ARCHWRIGHT. “The design selections were very fun to work with, and even more fun to see finished.”

 “The design team chose timeless, contemporary pieces from Kallista for the kitchen in this home. The Juxtapose pot filler in matte black is the perfect complement to the full slab backsplash wall and hood. It makes a subtle statement and truly earns its name in this space,” says Patti Jones, VP of Retail Sales at Snow + Jones. “The minimalist design of the ONE kitchen faucet adds architectural interest without taking away from the wall of windows.  Pairing this faucet with the oversized Multiere workstation kitchen sink makes this space extremely functional.”

Though the extensive undertaking required foresight, collaboration, and immaculate planning, the striking result speaks to the team’s stellar synergy. As Paranjape reflects, “It was one of those wonderful experiences where the right players were on the team.”

(Builder: ARCHWRIGHT Fine Home Builders, Architect: Catalyst Architecture & Interiors, Interior Design: Mrs. Paranjape Design + Interiors, Millwork: Mid-Cape Fine Home Centers, Appliances: KAM Appliances, Kitchen Cabinetry: Christopher Peacock, Plumbing Fixtures: Snow & Jones, Stone: Ricciardi Marble & Granite, Windows:  JB Sash & Door, Shower Glass Doors & Stairs: Blu’s Shower Door, Photography: Greg Premru)