Aucoot Cove

Project Details

Project Description

Builder's Choice and Custom Home Awards Finalist

The client's vision for this home is rooted in the eastern tradition of 'Wabi-Sabi', an aesthetic world view that embraces simplicity, asymmetry, economy and intimacy while celebrating the integrity of materials. With this concept as an overarching guide, the volumes of the house are arranged to take advantage of multiple targeted water views. A curving driveway begins the approach to the house, framed by giant rhododendrons and a soaring tree canopy which culminates in a parking court in full view of the main house. The focus and views afforded by the building's volumes vary dramatically, with each space appearing to be faceted toward a different view, breaking down the visual aspect of the house. At the same time, each volume outlines different interior spaces with a clear hierarchy, indicating their intended use. Utilitarian spaces including laundry, bathrooms and pantries are located under a a low sloped roof, while the living spaces are contained in two story, gable roofed volumes.

Entry to the main house occurs via a glass enclosed breezeway. To the north, the main wing of the house contains the dining, living, kitchen, screen porch, and master suite, which are aimed southwest to the ocean views. To the south, the second wing contains a media room, guest suite, sitting room, and two bedroom suites, all oriented to the northwest in order to capture views of the harbor. A palate of exterior materials was chosen for durability, longevity, and aesthetic character. Yellow cedar shingles are used on major living spaces, while vertical and horizontal red cedar siding is applied to the utilitarian spaces, each eventually weathering to a different color. The low metal roof reflects the color of the ocean beyond, with deep overhangs that shade the expanse of glass.

As a final dramatic element, a conical outdoor shower occupies a corner of the front porch, acting as an asymmetrical anchor. As both an accent and functional support for the low roof, the experience from within extends your view up to the sky and the passing clouds. It is a small encapsulation of the principles ordering the rest of the house; composed of simple forms, with an economy structure, it is an intimate space out in the open.