PROJECT NAME: Ridgewood Cottage

PROJECT TYPE: Renovation and Addition to Single Family Residence

PROJECT CONTEXT:  The carpenter gothic style home with its wraparound porches, balconies, and playful rooflines was a favorite of the vibrant shoreline neighborhood. The home was in disrepair and when it came on the market, our client acted quickly to purchase the home with a vision to return it to its former glory without sacrificing on energy efficiency or modern conveniences.  

PROJECT LOCATION: Madison, CT

PROJECT COMPLETION:  Fall 2008

PROJECT PROGRAM:  The cottage is a family retreat for the near future with the intention to become a full time residence for a growing family. The house is designed to evoke a casual summer lifestyle for the nuclear family while gracefully accommodating visits from extended family and friends. Harsh shoreline conditions, strict zoning and building code regulations were also part of the deign challenge.

DESIGN SOLUTION:  Spaces were carefully designed to maximize function without exceeding the limited area increase allowed by zoning. We raised the attic headroom and tucked in a children’s play space and a writer’s loft. A third floor balcony was carved into the roof allowing sweeping views of Long Island Sound. By using a house mover to pick up the existing cottage, we were able to pour a new foundation underneath. This created space for geothermal equipment; much needed storage, and allowed for better pest and weather protection around the perimeter of the house. Inside, we opened up the existing walls to create a dynamic living space with an abundance of natural light. Strategic, larger connections to most of the porches brought the outside spaces in, while a less functional porch space was claimed as part of the expanded kitchen. Undersized bedrooms were reconfigured into a master suite and a children’s suite, with a first floor guest suite in the addition. A back entry with outdoor shower, laundry and mudroom are ideal for beachside living.

MATERIALS:  The clients chose to restore the exterior to its original red cedar shingle appearance, with white trim. Playful colors were added on the front door and interior porch wall. Salvaged interior doors and painted pine floors give a rich, yet casual feel. In the kitchen, white cabinets, marble counters and stainless appliances were balanced by bolder colors inside the glass uppers and on the window trim. Much of the original framing was saved and reinforced for hurricane resistance through a steel superstructure. The client invested wisely in spray foam insulation, all new mechanical and electric systems, new fiberglass thermal windows and durable materials proven against the shore environment to assure that the home will be appreciated for generations to come.