This project restores and renovates a late-1950s modern home on a peninsula overlooking the Tred Avon River—a structure once in such severe disrepair that demolition seemed inevitable. Guided by the client’s commitment to preserving the home’s original character, the renovation celebrates its iconic rooflines, exposed timber beams, expansive glass, and strong horizontal datum lines that frame the sweeping Eastern Shore landscape.
The design preserves the home’s mid-century identity while adapting it for contemporary living, improving energy efficiency, and enhancing its relationship to the site. Prior alterations that obscured the original design intent were removed, including an enclosed indoor pool and a freestanding metal fireplace. The main living spaces were restored to their original scale and openness. New walnut panels maintain the home’s original datums while allowing for insulated transom glazing, and the expanded kitchen integrates these materials seamlessly.
The west end of the house was reconfigured as a private primary suite that retains its exposed beams, clerestory windows, and period character. Existing builtins in the secondary bedrooms were reconstructed, and the exterior received a new roof and updated glazing. The carport was rebuilt, and the former storage room was transformed into a pool house to support a new outdoor pool and terrace anchored by a small equipment building.
Amid renewed appreciation for midcentury modern architecture, this project preserves an important example of the era—rescuing it from demolition and preparing it for decades of modern family living.
Project team includes
- Contractor: Blue Point Construction
- Interior Design: Shaun Jackson
- Photography: Anice Hoachlander Photography
