The House on Buzzards Bay, completed in 2007, is a remarkable residence designed by Robert A.M. Stern Architects. Situated at the tip of Mishaum Point in Massachusetts, this expansive 17,646-square-foot home offers unparalleled 270-degree views of Buzzards Bay. The property encompasses 10 acres with over 1,500 feet of water frontage, providing a serene and picturesque setting.
The architectural design of the house is inspired by the Shingle Style, a hallmark of New England architecture. The residence features a staggered pair of haystack gables, presenting a bold yet picturesque profile. The entry is framed by a single-story service wing to the east, while a lighthouse-like tower anchors the composition to the west. Broad covered porches atop rustic stone walls wrap the three water-facing facades, enhancing the home’s connection to its natural surroundings.
Inside, the house is thoughtfully designed to accommodate both intimate family gatherings and large-scale entertaining. A central hall connects the major rooms, including a long, broad living room, an octagonal dining room, and a cubic stair hall. The kitchen, breakfast room, and family room occupy the east end of the house, while the west end features a round library within the tower. This library boasts a floor-to-ceiling beachstone and driftwood chimney breast under a beamed and vaulted ceiling, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.
The tower itself is a distinctive feature of the design, accessible via a dedicated mahogany staircase. This staircase, adorned with a native fieldstone wall crafted by local mason-artist Lew French, connects the library to the lighthouse-lookout study above and the octagonal wine cellar below. This thoughtful design ensures that every level of the tower offers unique views and experiences.
The lower level of the house is dedicated to recreation and entertainment. It includes a fully equipped exercise room, a two-lane bowling alley, a pool table, and a bar designed in the shape of a boat’s prow. This level is connected to the wine cellar by a “hall of fishes,” adding a whimsical touch to the home’s design. These amenities are thoughtfully integrated to provide a variety of entertainment options for residents and guests alike.
The exterior of the house is designed to maximise the enjoyment of the coastal environment. To the east, the pool area is sheltered from the prevailing summer winds, creating a comfortable outdoor space. A pergola and a screened porch offer shaded seating near the pool deck, allowing residents to relax and take in the surrounding natural beauty.
On the second floor, the master suite occupies the west gable, offering unobstructed water views. Guest bedrooms are situated to the south and east, ensuring that all rooms benefit from the home’s prime location. A guest house to the east of the entry court echoes the main house with a gambrel roof and covered porches, maintaining architectural harmony across the property.
The House on Buzzards Bay exemplifies Robert A.M. Stern Architects’ commitment to creating timeless residences that blend traditional architectural elements with modern comforts. The design thoughtfully integrates the home’s features with its natural surroundings, providing a harmonious living environment that celebrates the beauty of its coastal setting.
This residence stands as a testament to the firm’s expertise in designing homes that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The House on Buzzards Bay continues to be a prime example of how traditional architectural styles can be adapted to meet contemporary needs, creating spaces that are both enduring and relevant.
In conclusion, the House on Buzzards Bay is a masterful creation by Robert A.M. Stern Architects, showcasing their ability to design residences that are deeply connected to their environments. The home’s thoughtful design and attention to detail ensure that it remains a cherished and functional space for its inhabitants, embodying the timeless appeal of traditional architecture.
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