Thomas Catalano — Architect
“We have persistently honed ourcraft. An understanding of historicarchitecture and domestic architecturalprecedents fuels and informs our designprocess — allowing us to discover anddefine the details that lead to timeless, remarkable design.”
“The needs of their multi-generational family inspiredthe campus-like organization of the site and buildings,”Catalano said.
But before construction could begin, substantial work wasneeded to prepare the site, which used to be a low-lyingisland that was partially filled in the mid-20th centuryfrom an existing structure. As sea levels continued to rise,the oceanfront property flooded frequently.
“The first challenge for the client was to build resiliencyinto the site, as he and his wife plan on passing the housedown to their children,” Catalano said.
To help protect and secure the property as well as raise itby several feet, Catalano Architects worked with a civilengineer and environmental consultant to develop arock revetment wall along the shore of the property. Theteam also did mitigation planting with native plants thatresist saltwater incursion and offer habitat to local faunawhile also removing invasive species and augmenting anexisting grove of wild cedar trees.
“It all helped to ensure the site was resilient to risingsea levels, flooding, and other environmental threats,”Catalano said.
The project’s primary residence was situated to takeadvantage of the site’s breathtaking views. Other buildingswere designed to respect their unique relationship to theprimary dwelling, as well as the relationship of each ofthe buildings to the sun and the outdoor environmentcreated between the buildings.
In the end, the clients got their Cape Cod dream home,and Catalano and his team completed another projectthat typifies the firm’s dedication to craft, high standards,and remarkable design that brings joy to others.
“We are very fortunate to have great clients who shareour passion for timeless, sustainable design and who wishto bring something to a family heirloom,” Catalano said.“We pride ourselves on being careful listeners who strivefor a thorough understanding of how our clients will livein the home that we are designingtrivefor a thorough understanding of how our clients will livein the home that we are designing.”
— Excerpt from New View: A Curated Visual Gallery: Twenty Magnificent Homes by Northeast Architects
Photography by Trent Bell
Photography by Trent Bell
Photography by Trent Bell