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Approach to Oliver's

Lobster Shack

A local mainstay gets a new lease on life.

Project Details

Architect + Builder

Knickerbocker Group

Interior Design

Knickerbocker Group

Photography

Darren Setlow

Community history reimagined

The E.W. Pratt General Store and Merchandise was opened by Gus Pratt and his wife Emolyn in 1948. Many years later, the store closed and fell into disrepair, until a generous benefactor and Cozy Harbor resident had a dream of bringing it back to life.

Door handles at Oliver's
Several old additions, including one that housed a bowling alley, were demolished to make room for a new 4,500-square-foot commercial pier.
– Design Team, Lobster Shack

Finding a new home

The original barn building was salvaged, moved, and underwent a major renovation. Several old additions, including one that housed a bowling alley, were demolished to make room for a new 4,500-square-foot commercial pier, one of just a few wharves in the area open to the public for both fisheries and recreational uses.

Restoration and preservation

The old bowling alley was re-purposed to make the dining room tables and a long sweeping bar. The fresh and colorful ‘retro-nautical’ interiors were inspired by a Caribbean restaurant. Surprisingly, the neon “Boothbay Lobster” sign was salvaged from a restaurant in Texas!

A revival through
community

Once used for candlepin bowling at “The Alley,” the old bowling balls now serve as handholds on the upstairs railing.

Nourishing new traditions

Whether you share a picnic table on the pier, relax in the screened interior, or—better yet—grab a seat on the 2nd floor porch, the views of Cozy Harbor just can’t be beat!