Located in the heart of Pine Orchard, this 1890s cottage suffered through several unsuitable 20th century updates. In restoring the home, the owners asked that its redesign reflect the neighborhood’s shoreline character. Additionally, structural issues were addressed as well as the function of each space to better meet family lifestyle needs. 

Renovations to the home’s façade included removal of a dilapidated, overscaled, upper story wrap-around porch. The south-facing entry was transformed from a concrete stoop into an enlarged open porch replete with bluestone patio and new colonnade, where family can now sit and enjoy the property’s waterfront views. The porch’s foundation, and that of the entire house, was cladded with a fieldstone veneer. The new porch roof, which became an extension of the main gable roof, gives emphasis to the geometric form of the original house. 

The roofline was addressed for aesthetic as well as structural reasons. The front-facing gable was redefined and now features a centrally located balcony and custom wood railing with a decorative geometric pattern. Large, high-performance windows replace smaller casement windows; grey-stained eastern white cedar shingles clad the once dreary exterior of the home. Additional details include new copper gutters and front door and light fixtures.

The interior of the 2,600 SF home was gutted. The homeowner’s en suite bedroom was expanded and reconfigured with custom millwork and built-ins. The redesign also features French doors that open onto the second-story balcony and full-height windows with lower sash shutters that maximize daylight and waterfront views. 

The attic of the home was converted into a family room, finished with white painted shiplap and custom cabinetry and a tongue and groove wood ceiling. Additional interior finishes include red oak floors, a fieldstone fireplace, and copper light fixtures.

AIA Connecticut Alice Washburn jury awarded Shoreline Cottage its Merit and Commendation Award in Interior Design / Additions / Renovations in 2022 for the “wonderful revival of this little cottage (and) nice use of materials.”