This new home by ARQ Architects is sited on an existing clearing in the woods with views to a tidal harbor. The clients desired a straightforward but modern interpretation of traditional New England design. They also wanted durable, timeless materials but were open to untraditional materials. The design process focused on critical plan relationships, along with views and natural light for all rooms. After reviewing exterior materials, weathering Cor-Ten steel wall panels and a standing-seam roof were chosen to pair with the barnlike gable roof forms. The design approach adopts the simplicity of Shaker style and reflects the clients’ desire to keep things simple and not fussy.

The home will sit between existing ledge outcroppings and mature trees, critical features the clients wanted to retain. The one-story, 2,500-square-foot plan is designed to accommodate aging in place and to be fully accessible. The simplicity and ease of maintenance continues in the interior. There will be a restrained palette, with emphasis on sustainable materials. Floors will be primarily linoleum made from all-renewable natural materials. Gypsum walls and ceilings will be augmented with smaller areas of locally sourced wood ceilings.

The owners and ARQ are excited to be pairing with Maine-based Ecocor for the construction of the home. Ecocor’s sustainable, factory- built, panelized approach greatly reduces normal construction waste. Their sustainable, passive house approach also greatly reduces energy use and carbon footprint. ARQ has designed the exterior of the house to use only standard 4-foot-wide Cor-Ten panels. Window and door openings are aligned with the standard panels. The house design incorporates all the elements the clients desired and is true to ARQ Architects’ simple, smart, and sustainable approach.

Location: Kittery Point
Architect: ARQ Architects
Design Team: Lucy Schlaffer, Paul Bonacci, & Jay Orr
Building Envelope Factory Fabrication: Ecocor, Searsmont, ME
General Contractor: Ecocor, Searsmont, ME
Construction start: Fall 2022
Construction complete: Summer 2023