Given the opportunity to preserve, restore and renovate this historic property in Madaket, Nantucket, Allison Babcock, in collaboration with architect Emeritus LTD, created a family retreat that celebrates water-front living. Babcock was challenged with strict zoning regulations that would not allow changes to the footprint of the house, but with careful reorientation of the spaces, the designer created spaces that are elegant, efficient, and perfectly suited to her clients’ needs. Designed for a family of three people and two dogs, with guests in mind,

The 1,800-square-foot waterfront cottage contains generous living spaces, three bedrooms, including a fabulous bunk room that sleeps four, and two bathrooms, with three outdoor showers. The outdoor living and dining areas, where the homeowners enjoy most of their meals, are essential extensions of the interiors. Shades of cream, blue, and warm wood throughout the home evoke the ocean and waterfront living. Materiality and attention to detail make this cottage feel true to the original house and the architecture of the island.