Peter McDonald Architect has reimagined this cozy and welcoming beach house situated along the water in Provincetown, Massachusetts. Typical of many West End houses in the region, this early 20th-century home on the water is situated on a tight lot in a Historic district. Before the renovation of this 2,456-square-foot, three-bedroom and three-bathroom home, the interior was separated into several small rooms with low ceilings.

The kitchen and bathrooms were very dated. Additionally, there were structural issues — the majority of the second level was under-framed and sagging. On the walk-out basement level, the low ceiling height resulted in a dark and dingy space. The homeowners commissioned the architects to open up the floor plan, maximize views of the water while bringing in natural light, and make the basement level livable.

DESIGN DETAILS: ARCHITECT Peter McDonald Architect CONTRACTOR Cape Associates INTERIOR DESIGN Vantine Interior Design

When the architects began this renovation project, they were restricted by the Historic Commission to keep the front and side elevations similar to what already existed. However, they were able to push an addition off the back of the home by 10 feet. This enabled more extensive decking overlooking the water.

The architects preserved the existing window and shutter style and extended the cedar-hipped roof with exposed rafter tails.

The basement slab and basement level deck were lowered a foot which helped to make the lower walk-out space airy, livable, and more connected to the outside. A project engineer designed a new structure to support the second floor.

This minimized the thickness of the floor, which was done through a series of steel beams. This enabled the living room ceilings to be higher, while maximize the amount of water-side glazing. Integral to the design, was to unify the home to the incredible views of Provincetown Harbor and beyond, with its ever-changing light, tide, and wildlife.

What We Love: This Provincetown beach house showcases tranquil views of the water throughout the main living spaces and the master bedroom. We love the expansive deck for relaxing and enjoying the peaceful surroundings. It is also ideal for entertaining family and friends in style. Cozy and comfortable living spaces offer a beach-chic vibe that is perfect for this home’s setting.

Tell Us: What are your overall thoughts on the renovation of this beach house? Do you think the architects were successful in creating an inviting design? Let us know in the Comments!

Note: Have a look at another fabulous home tour that we have featured here on One Kindesign from the portfolio of the architect’s of this project, Peter McDonald Architect: Saltbox home features nautical-inspired elements in Cape Cod.

Above: The deck is situated off the great room and was designed to be very durable and low-maintenance with a high-wind and saltwater environment in mind.  The railing system is by Feeney, while the Zuri® Premium Decking is by Royal Building Solutions. 

PHOTOGRAPHER Brian VanderBrink