Project Spotlight: Cotuit Bay Pool House

When an opportunity called to expand their Cape Cod property, the homeowners didn't hesitate. When they acquired a neighboring 2-acre property overlooking Cotuit Bay, the family envision a sanctuary nestled the trees. With Longfellow Design Build at the helm, an existing home was reimagined as a luxurious, multi-faceted outdoor living experience, where the boundaries between nature and structure blur. The result is a seamless blend of comfort and sophisicated design that celebrates life outdoors, and was recently awarded Silver Winner for Most Creative/Unique Use of Space at the 2024 PRISM Awards.

With long summer days and crisp autumn nights in mind, the guiding principle for the project was versatility for maximum use, as the homeowners desired a space they could utilize throughout the day without needing to return to the main house. Longfellow Design Build meticulously crafted distinct yet cohesive activity areas, each designed to take full advantage of the spectacular bay views and Cape Cod’s ever-changing light.

At the heart of the design is an infinity pool built with foundation stones repurposed from the original home, featuring built-in seating and a dramatic waterfall. Its edge aligns with the bay’s horizon, creating a visual flow between land and sea. The pool’s modern glass fence allows for unobstructed views, while black posts add a sleek, contemporary feel.

Adjacent to the pool, a canopy structure with a hip roof offers shaded lounging for poolside relaxation. An all-cedar outdoor shower offers a rustic, spa-like feel amidst the lush trees. Nearby, the pavilion seating area boasts marine-grade speakers and a 65-inch Samsung Terrace outdoor TV.  A Lutron lighting system with automation offers a customizable ambiance as day sways into night.

Each activity area offers a distinct experience, yet the design’s genius lies in its cohesion. In each zone, sightlines were carefully evaluated to ensure the Cotuit Bay remains a constant focal point. Evenings are made memorable around a round Marino glass gas firepit, surrounded by Adirondack chairs—perfect for storytelling under the stars. A poolside kitchen with a quartz-topped bar serves as a hub for alfresco dining. Whether it’s a quick lunch for the kids or cocktails with friends, this space invites connection and entertainment.

Once a garage, the converted pool house now boasts a bespoke kitchen with custom plywood cabinetry and maple doors, a quartz island countertop, and a luxurious bathroom. The craftsmanship is evident in every detail, from dovetail joints to soft-close hinges.

Stones from the demolished home’s foundation were thoughtfully repurposed throughout the site—serving as retaining walls, column posts, and even the base of the outdoor grill and firepit. The outdoor living space is framed by gardens featuring native species, ensuring the property blends effortlessly with the natural Cape Cod landscape, and additional plantings were selected for their resilience and low maintenance.

Whether basking in the sun by the infinity pool or gathering around the firepit as the evening mist rolls in, this outdoor living space offers an ever-changing--yet always-captivating--experience of coastal luxury.