THE DRAWING BOARD – February 2014

Whitten Architects and Richardson and Associates Landscape Architects are collaborating on the design of this outdoor-oriented haven for a young family. From the sheltering porches and courtyard of Spurwink Retreat, “little scientists” will be able to explore the rocky shoreline, pocket beaches, tide pools, open fields, woods, and wetlands of the site via a well-considered trail network. A landscape stewardship plan is being developed that will address the elimination of invasive plant species that have begun to take over portions of the property, and the planting of indigenous plant species will return the property to a more native Maine landscape.

The primarily one-floor design is situated to allow direct access to the landscape from just about every room in the home. The main living space sits at the intersection of a sunny open field with expansive ocean views and an intimate courtyard that offers protection from the sun and wind. The contrast between these two differing outdoor spaces is celebrated through lift-and-slide doors on both sides of the living room. On buggy days, the family will be able to enjoy dining or games by the ocean from the protection of a screened porch. Starry nights can be celebrated from a stone-paved promenade directly adjacent. The bedrooms of the home will open onto a covered porch that has views out over a grassy meadow to the open ocean beyond.

Ultimately this retreat will provide lifelong memories of summers by the ocean for the entire family.

Location: Scarborough

Architect: Whitten Architects

Landscape Architect: Richardson & Associates Landscape Architects

Structural Engineer: Albert Putnam, PE

General Contractor: Wright-Ryan Homes

Lighting Design: Greg Day Lighting

Construction start: Summer 2013

Construction complete: Summer 2014