Ship ahoy

Being able to devote an entire floor to the master suite gave the architect of this house the opportunity to explore the possibilities of an innovative, integrated design.

Eric Terry of Soli Terry Architects says the owners wanted a contemporary, open interior for their remodeled house, which was rebuilt from the basement up. The design was also determined by height restrictions and a gabled roof line at the front of the house, which is in keeping with the local architectural vernacular.

"The high gabled roof in the center of the room provided a way to accentuate the focal points the bed and the elevated bathtub, which sits directly behind the headboard," Terry says. "The position of the tub, which was suggested by one of the owners, ensures the owners can enjoy the spectacular sea view while bathing."

Low, curved fir-lined ceilings on each side of the room create more intimate areas a fireplace reinforces the sense of retreat. The lowered roof line on either side also fits with the local height restrictions, says the architect.

Sloping steel structural supports and steel tension rods across the ceiling enhance the slightly nautical feel of the interior, and repeat the materials used on the exterior of the house.

The suite also has a strong symmetry. Matching fir wood vanities have large mirrors that reflect the view, which Terry says was the key driver for the design. Separate his-and-hers dressing rooms and closets are positioned to either side.

The vanities flank the opening to the shower and toilet rooms one on the left and one on the right. To enhance the symmetry, both rooms have slatted teak wood floors and suspended teak ceilings that don't compromise the flowing arc of the curved room above.

Story by: Colleen Hawkes

Photography by: Roger Turk