Situated on a small, private road on Cousins Island, this 1990s well-built home sits on a peninsula stretching into Casco Bay, boasting 180-degree water views. The owners, a young family returning to Maine to raise their first child, envisioned transforming the modest, outdated home into a modern, family-friendly residence that takes advantage of the stunning surroundings. They wanted the feel of a New England coastal cottage, similar to the wife’s childhood memories of growing up in Stonington.

Before the renovation,  the first-floor design included individual rooms with minimal light and water views.  By tearing down walls, and adding windows and doors, a bright and welcoming atmosphere was created with a more modern feel.   The kitchen was also moved and increased in size to support entertaining family and friends. An existing first floor bedroom was transformed into a spacious primary bathroom.  The original design of the home had 3 gables which limited natural light and space due to the slopes of the roof. Addition of large dormers enhanced the usable space on the second floor, allowed for more natural light and contributed to the aesthetics of the exterior.  A second primary bedroom was created on the 2nd floor and  has an incredible view down the bay. Dormers were also added to the garage, making usable space for an entertainment room and office.

A design challenge with this project was the original approach to the home appeared very garage centered with the main entrance being barely visible. The solution was to extend a covered porch alongside the garage to the main entry.  Using Douglas fir for the porch added warmth and helps draw the eye to the front entrance as you approach the home. The exterior was brightened with white shingles and the client’s choice of Nantucket dormers maximized space and gives a feel of a New England coastal cottage.  Reworking an open deck/patio created a multi-purpose outdoor living area that takes advantage of the stunning views of Casco bay.

This complete renovation project on Cousins Island successfully transformed the dated home with restricted natural light into a modern, bright, family-friendly home. With its open interior spaces and inviting outdoor areas, the home now provides an ideal environment for a young family to live, play, and grow together. Close collaboration with the client, builder and interior designer resulted in a stylish and functional living space that meets the family's needs and reflects their contemporary taste.

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