Mason's Island

Flood zone guidelines mandated elevated structures, requiring up to 30" of fill within canopies of mature trees and near lot lines and neighbors. Close collaboration between architects, engineers, and builders resulted in an elevated, flood-tolerant structure that still feels connected to the ground and nestled within preserved vegetation.

At the client’s request, close collaboration with a biologist persisted throughout the design and construction process to maximize success of expanded coastal pollinator habitat. The designed palette is resilient to coastal conditions (salt spray and tidal surges) as well as dry, sandy soils and is a designed as an ecotone from tidal wetland to coastal woodland.

A monoculture of locally-sourced stone was used throughout the project for all paving, steps, curbs, and walls. With one stone selected for all masonry elements, the design plays with finish, scale, pattern, and composition to create varied experience with both contemporary and rustic details.