Legacy on the Shore

 A coastal estate is designed with the future in mind.

On a picturesque two-acre site along the Cape Cod shoreline, a family estate, designed by Patrick Ahearn Architect and built by Sweeney Custom Homes, blends traditional architecture with modern sophistication. Driven by a forward-thinking vision, the homeowners desired a summer retreat that would grow with their family for generations, blending Ahearn’s classic architecture with contemporary touches reflective of their personal style.

Despite its recent construction, the estate’s multi-structure, gambrel-style layout conjures a sense of historical narrative and evolution. “There’s a notion that the house could have been added on to over time,” says Patrick Ahearn, Owner of Patrick Ahearn Architect. The architectural composition deftly connects a carriage house to the main residence, extending to a cabana and outdoor entertainment areas beyond the front facade. “In new construction, it's all about scale,” Ahearn emphasizes. Though substantial in size, the estate is articulated into distinct pieces, maintaining a cottage-like feel in compliance with the region’s 26-foot height limits.

Approaching the estate, a curvilinear driveway winds through a wooded glen, revealing glimpses of the house before opening into the motor court. The thoughtful approach sets the stage for  breathtaking sea views visible from multiple vantage points across the property, and affords a grand sense of arrival. “When you open up the front doors, you look right through the house toward the ocean,” says Ahearn.

(Photography: Taylor Allegrini)

Initially, a nondescript 1960s structure occupied the waterfront site, positioned closer to the shoreline. The strategic relocation of the new construction outside the 100-foot buffer zone preserves the natural landscape, garnering praise from the conservation commission and enhancing the property’s appeal. “It was a win-win for the town,” Ahearn affirms.

At first glance, the estate exudes a classic shingle-style vernacular. Yet, a closer look reveals a contemporary reinterpretation of timeless aesthetics, where vertical shed dormers, exaggerated bluestone-capped chimneys, and Zephyr blue shutters and doors adorn the home’s exterior.

(Photography: Taylor Allegrini)

Inside, modern minimalism blends with traditional craftsmanship, pairing clean lines and transitional forms with classic beams, moldings, and trim. Against a backdrop of refined classical architecture, interior accents embrace a tranquil simplicity with neutral furnishings, touches of texture, levered door handles, and character-grade white oak floors.

(Photography: Taylor Allegrini)

In the kitchen, Scavolini cabinets are seamlessly incorporated into classical millwork and ceiling beams. For a family who loves to cook and entertain, the kitchen serves as the heart of the home. The living room features a mirrored wet bar and custom soapstone mantel, and collection of art and coffee table books curated by the homeowners.

(Photography: Taylor Allegrini)

Flowing seamlessly from the open concept kitchen, the living room extends to a four-season sunroom and outdoor patio, creating a fluid progression of inviting entertainment spaces.

(Photography: Taylor Allegrini)

“We've created multiple places on multiple levels to take advantage of the views,” notes Ahearn. Key living areas, including the sunroom, are strategically oriented to capture the site’s expansive vistas, where sunset unfolds nightly over the western shoreline. Ground-level outdoor amenities include a cabana complete with changing rooms and kitchenette, a dining area shaded by a bespoke white pergola, and a luxurious pool and spa. A New England fieldstone wall encloses the pool area, and offers a smooth transition between terrace levels.

(Photography: Taylor Allegrini)

Stepping back inside, considerable attention was given to planning for the family’s future needs, with versatile spaces designed for adaptability. Ideal for aging in place, the primary suite is located on the first level. In an upstairs bedroom, a spacious closet with a large window could serve as a nursery down the line. Another bedroom features an adjoining space for easy integration, should a larger living space be needed.

(Photography: Taylor Allegrini)

“As the family grows, we can convert existing spaces over time, for multiple uses,” Ahearn says. Located in the carriage house, a bunk room is fitted with twin-over-queen beds that are integrated into the gambrel roofline, offering flexible sleeping arrangements for present-day guests and future grandchildren.

(Photography: Taylor Allegrini)

Designed for both immediate enjoyment and lasting legacy, every detail reflects a commitment to creating a home that evolves gracefully alongside its owners, ensuring a timeless sanctuary by the sea.

Architect: Patrick Ahearn Architect - Principal in Charge: Patrick Ahearn FAIA - Project Architect: Colby Mauke AIA

Builder: Sweeney Custom Homes

Landscape Architect: CBA Landscape Architects

Garage Doors: Designer Garage Doors

Photography: Taylor Allegrini