Flavin Architects envisioned this stunning modern house nestled into a steeply sloping site that overlooks the Annisquam River in Cape Ann, Massachusetts. The home’s linear layout is oriented parallel to the contours of the hillside, minimizing site disturbance. The stacked massing and galvanized steel detailing of the home recall the industrial vernacular of the Gloucester waterfront, and the dark color helps the house settle into its wooded site.

To integrate the house more fully with its natural surroundings, a tree was planted that extends up through the second-floor deck. An exterior steel stair adjacent to the tree leads from the parking area to a second-floor deck and the home’s front door.

DESIGN DETAILS: ARCHITECT Flavin Architects GENERAL CONTRACTOR Brookes + Hill Custom Builders LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT Wagner Hodgson Landscape Architects INTERIOR DESIGNER Atsu Gunther Design STRUCTURAL ENGINEER Webb Structural Services MECHANICAL ENGINEER Sun Engineering SURVEYOR + CIVIL ENGINEER + WETLANDS SPECIALIST The Morin-Cameron Group TECHNOLOGY DESIGN System7 STRUCTURAL STEEL Kelley Welding MILLWORK Modern Heritage

The first-floor bedrooms enjoy the privacy provided by black-painted wood screens that extend from the concrete pad to the second-floor deck. The screens also soften the view of the adjacent road, and visually connects the second-floor deck to the land.

What We Love: This galvanized steel home provides an architectural facade that has modern, clean lines and can withstand the elements. Inside, bright and airy living spaces are conducive for family living and entertaining. A neutral color palette helps to not detract from this home’s stunning surroundings, while large windows help to frame the tranquil views.

Tell Us: What are your thoughts on the architectural design of this home? Let us know in the Comments below!

Note: Check out a couple of other stunning home tours that we have showcased here on One Kindesign in the state of Massachusetts: Luminous update to Massachusetts home encourages family intimacy and Luxuriously crafted three-story beach home in Massachusetts.

The owner’s suite is situated even higher, tucked into the rear on the third floor. There, the owner enjoys private views of the steep woodland bank behind the house.

Because the view of the tidal river and wetlands is improved by a higher vantage point, the open plan kitchen, living, and dining areas look over the deck to a view of the river.

A generous screen porch occupies the front of the house, facing the marsh, providing space for family gatherings and a sleeping porch to enjoy the breezes on hot summer nights.

PHOTOGRAPHER Nat Rea Photography