Seaside

Seaside is an example of new infrastructure creating opportunity to improve and restore the natural systems of a site and its surrounding context. The project site was highlighted by a dilapidated home that was falling into the Atlantic Ocean; the result of a receding shoreline. The landscape was comprised of overgrown ornamental and invasive planting types, which had out- competed the native plant species. The new design relies on a minimalist approach to development, that harmonizes with the natural systems of the site. Walls and terraces of limestone rise out of the grade, the buff-color echoes the color of the beach sand and extends the lines of the house, creating a strong visual sense of integration. This theme of integration continues throughout the landscape. A new dune was created between the house and ocean as protection from future storms, and this was stabilized with a planting of American beach grass. The swimming pool was placed overlooking pond, overflow edges in both the pool and the spa transform them into mirrors whose still water surface mimics that of the pond below, creating another visual link between residence and setting.