Hutker Architects, in collaboration with Kathleen Walsh Interiors, has designed this beautiful modern family getaway home situated in Chilmark, a town located on Martha’s Vineyard in Dukes County, Massachusetts. Overlooking a saltwater pond and barrier beach with the Atlantic Ocean beyond, the property was once used as an old fishing and hunting camp.
The owners sought to create a comfortable gathering place for family, preserving the essence of the property’s unique history. Collaborating with the project team, the design called for a “modern beach camp.” What is unique to this 5,000-square-foot home is the layout: the owner’s bedroom suite (with a private study) is housed in a separate cabin. It is situated across from the main house and offers privacy and relaxation.
DESIGN DETAILS: ARCHITECT Hutker Architects INTERIOR DESIGN Kathleen Walsh Interiors CONSTRUCTION Perry Builders LANDSCAPE DESIGN Horiuchi & Solien
The main building contains an open layout kitchen, dining, and living room, as well as a bedroom wing, ideal for multi-generational entertaining and gathering. A boardwalk leads guests to catch a view straight through the meadow to the pond and beach dunes beyond the house upon entering the property. A roof deck, with its lush plantings, provides breathtaking ocean views—perfect for enjoying a morning coffee.
Throughout the interiors, rough-hewn timbers frame a simple palette of natural materials, which were chosen for their durability against harsh sunlight and sandy feet. The structures are elevated several feet above grade, perched on a boardwalk that connects the buildings and leads to an outdoor stairway to a rooftop lookout. Natural cedar and a green roof help to blend the home seamlessly into its surroundings, while the simple gabled forms pay homage to the property’s roots.
For the interiors, the design focused on comfort, napping, and togetherness. The family requested spaces that would encourage conversation, games, crossword puzzles, reading, and cooking. Finishes, furnishings, and textiles were selected from artisans whose craftsmanship showcases a personal touch, while all the art in the home is by Vineyard artists, reflecting the diverse perspectives of those who call the island “home”.
The design process prioritized environmentally conscious choices and supported small, American manufacturers. Above all, a sensitivity of “place” was utmost in all the architecture and interiors.
What We Love: This getaway home on Martha’s Vineyard provides a family with a comfortable and relaxing respite. The thoughtful design creates a welcoming space that seamlessly connects indoor and outdoor living. We love the green roof and the series of boardwalks, which help minimize the home’s environmental impact. We also love the idea of the detached suite for the homeowners, with a bedroom, bathroom, office, and large closet, a private oasis for when they have overnight guests.
Tell Us: What are your overall thoughts on the design of this dwelling? Let us know in the Comments below, we enjoy reading your feedback!
Note: Check out a couple of other fabulous home tours that we have showcased here on One Kindesign in the state of Massachusetts: Charming agrarian cottage provides a family escape on Martha’s Vineyard and Woodland retreat on Martha’s Vineyard with ultimate indoor-outdoor living.
PHOTOGRAPHER Brian Van Der Brink
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