- Project: Acton Cove House
- Architect: Bates Masi Architects
- Location: United States, Annapolis, Maryland
- Year: 2017
- Area: 518 m2
- Photography: Michael Moran
Situated on the edge of Chesapeake Bay in Annapolis, Maryland, the Acton Cove House by Bates Masi + Architects exemplifies a harmonious blend of modern design and coastal resilience. Designed for an active family passionate about boating, this waterfront residence transforms a compact lot into a layered sanctuary that engages with its maritime surroundings.
Design Inspired by Historical Layers
During the demolition of the site’s previous 1970s structure, layers of old bulkheads and fill were uncovered, revealing a history of land expansion into the harbor. This discovery inspired the new design’s layered approach, addressing challenges posed by the coastal environment and the need for privacy in a densely populated area.
The home’s design features multiple layers:
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Bulkhead and Boardwalk: The outermost layer consists of the existing bulkhead topped with a 2×8 ipe deck, connecting various docks and providing direct water access.
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Weathering Steel Planters: Stepped corten steel planters mediate between the boardwalk and the elevated ground level, referencing industrial sheet pilings.
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Cantilevered Decks and Drapes: The second floor is surrounded by cantilevered decks, wrapped in fixed ipe screens and operable canvas drapes that slide along a continuous track, offering adjustable privacy and protection from the elements.
Material Palette Reflecting Maritime Heritage
The materials chosen for Acton Cove House pay homage to the working harbor’s character:
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Reclaimed Heart Pine Siding: 3×14 boards evoke the heavy timber bulkheads common in maritime structures.
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Silicone Bronze Screws: Exposed fasteners draw from shipbuilding techniques.
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Woven Rope and Sailcloth Details: These elements incorporate local craftsmanship into the home’s aesthetic.
These traditional materials are combined with modern insulation, glazing, and building systems, resulting in a high-performance, LEED-certified structure.
Interior-Exterior Connectivity
Large expanses of operable glass pocket into adjacent walls, seamlessly merging indoor and outdoor spaces. Interior linen drapes and roll shades provide additional layers of privacy and light control. This configurability allows the family to adapt the environment for various activities and weather conditions, extending their time spent outdoors.
Landscape Integration
The landscape design by Gregg Bleam complements the home’s layered architecture:
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Corten Steel Site Walls: Supporting tall hornbeam hedges, these walls create minimalist garden spaces.
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Granite Sett Parking Court: Flanked by bayberry hedges and London planetrees, the court offers a welcoming entrance.
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Stepping Stone Paths: Leading through sweetbay magnolia groves to the front door, these paths enhance the site’s natural beauty.
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Harborside Terraced Planters: Featuring native spartina marsh grass, these planters step down to the bulkhead, creating a dynamic, seasonally changing landscape.
