Salt Spray Retreat

Screen porch with views of the Maine coast

Project Details

Architect + Builder

Knickerbocker Group

Interior Design

Knickerbocker Group

Photography

Darren Setlow

The Maine cottage reimagined

Perched on a rocky coastal ledge, our client was originally drawn to a quirky mid-century modern home for its unmatched location. Offering stunning ocean views, the home’s setting exuded calm with its crisp ocean breeze and the soft sound of lapping waves. The home’s disjointed layout and dark interiors however were misaligned with its serene site. Although plans to salvage the existing home through an extensive renovation were explored, the decision was ultimately made to start fresh.

Building new allowed our clients’ dream of a “quintessential Maine cottage” to take shape. Without needing to adhere to the oddities of the existing home, our design team reimagined the property, creating a home that feels attuned to its coastal setting and graciously welcomes family and friends.

Coastal garden with stone path to the ocean

Unparalleled views

Entering Salt Spray Retreat is an experience. Impressive windows on the waterside immediately draw you in and offer an unparalleled view of the sea beyond. The open concept living/kitchen/dining space flows freely and allows for easy entertaining along with cozy corners to curl up when there isn’t a crowd. The kitchen features an oversized island and exquisite quartzite countertops with colors and shapes that imitate crashing ocean waves over sand. Just outside, a three-season porch creates an easeful connection between indoor-outdoor living and has quickly become a favorite spot for morning coffee or an evening cocktail.

Pendant lights and marble counter at Salt Spray

Wavy blue back splash of stove at Salt Spray

Maine cottage kitchen with views of the ocean

Soft blues, creams and whites

Throughout the home, a palette of soft blues, creams and crisp whites are found within the paint and fabric selections, weaving together the spaces, and bringing a lightness to the home. Vaulted ceilings and extensive custom millwork add a hint of formality, while the rich heart pine floors provide a welcomed warmth. Select wallcoverings further add refinement including a grasscloth in the mudroom and Cole & Son’s Melville pattern which takes inspiration from seafaring journeys of the past in the laundry room.

View of stairs and kitchen at Salt Spray

Sailboat drapery & entertainment

For the littlest guests, a nautically themed red, white, and blue bunkroom pays homage to the home’s coastal setting. Sailboat drapery and a custom 5’ lobster crafted by local artist Jon Strom add a touch of whimsy to the space. The custom bunks feature sweet nooks to stash toys and books.

The lower level, referred to as the “ocean level” is all about entertaining. Designed as an oasis for visiting guests, the space has an entertainment room, wet bar, additional guest quarters, and a secondary laundry room. Adding to the ease of entertaining, the lower level leads directly to a stone patio, featuring a pergola and built-in grill and opening to the expansive lawn. During the summer months, the ocean level welcomes a constant flow of visitors and exceeds all expectations. When the doors and windows are open and the sea breeze rolls in, there is nowhere the homeowner would rather be than her sanctuary by the sea.