It’s about the atmosphere, the way the light hits the water, and the deep connection between nature and architecture
When it comes to creating dream homes along the coastline, we believe that luxury transcends design—it’s about the atmosphere, the way the light hits the water, and the deep connection between nature and architecture. At the heart of our latest projects, we’ve worked to craft coastal havens that redefine waterfront living, each one unique in its approach yet unified in its celebration of the ocean. Here, we highlight three stunning homes that showcase our love for the coast and our commitment to exceptional design.
Fairfield Beach: The Captain’s Seaside Getaway
Fairfield Beach is maritime luxury at its finest, offering both the rugged charm of shingle-style architecture and the sleek sophistication of a steamship. Situated on the shores of Long Island Sound, this home was designed with the sea in mind. Its Dutch gambrel roofline casts a dramatic silhouette, while the sleek, glass-encased living spaces allow the ocean to become an extension of the home.
The highlight of this project is undoubtedly the two-step sunken living room, which offers unobstructed panoramic views of the water through frameless glass panels. The interplay between the shingle-clad exterior and the modern, transparent facade creates a perfect balance between tradition and innovation. Here, the details tell the story: the subtle curve of the roof mimics the hull of a ship, while the careful placement of windows brings the water’s edge within arm’s reach.
Whether gazing at the crashing waves or watching the gentle ebb and flow of the tides, Fairfield Beach offers its owners an unparalleled connection to the ocean. It’s not just a home—it’s a captain’s retreat, where every element nods to the surrounding seascape.
South Beach: A Cantilevered Masterpiece
South Beach was a lesson in transformation. Once a dated, sprawling structure with competing additions and unclear lines, it now stands as a unified, elegant retreat that seems to float above the Long Island Sound. The clients wanted more living space and a greater sense of cohesion so we delivered by completely reimagining the home’s structure.
We softened the home’s once-chaotic appearance, streamlining the exterior with a monochromatic palette and giving it a sense of calm and order. Inside, we opened the previously fragmented spaces and introduced illuminated newels that act as guiding lights throughout the home’s multiple levels.
At its most dramatic, the house cantilevers over the water, with large glass panels that invite the ocean inside. The crowning feature is the glass-walled eagle’s nest, perched atop the structure, offering 360-degree views of the surrounding seascape. From here, the owners can enjoy a sense of retreat, as though perched on a private lookout over the endless horizon.
Historically New: A Modern Rebirth
A project unlike any other, Historically New was a challenge that pushed us to the limits of creativity, regulatory navigation, and architectural preservation. Set in a charming coastal town, the original structure dated back to the early 1800s—a former general store that had aged gracefully into a residence but had never seen modern upgrades. The home was steeped in history but faced a harsh reality: it violated virtually every zoning regulation and was dangerously below flood elevation standards.
The solution wasn’t to tear it down but to revive it. In collaboration with the local land-use department, we discovered an obscure regulation classifying the property as a protected town landmark. This allowed us to preserve its historic integrity while modernizing it for today’s standards.
We raised the home’s foundation to meet flood regulations, crafting a stone porch that harmoniously followed the natural landscape and eliminating the need for intrusive guardrails. Inside, we preserved the original floor plan and restored iconic features like the first-floor windows, front door, and shutters. The result is a seamless blend of past and present—a structure that honors its history while embracing the comforts of modern coastal living.
Creating Coastal Dreams
We believe that true luxury is about how a home makes you feel, and in each of these projects, the connection to the sea is palpable. Each of these homes represents our commitment to creating coastal sanctuaries that go beyond beautiful architecture. Through thoughtful design, historical preservation, and a deep respect for the coastal environment, we’ve crafted homes that are as unique as the shores they rest upon.
Want to Learn More About Waterfront Architecture?
Hallmark of a Christopher Pagliaro Architects project is the marriage of the structure and site to create a sense of place. To get started on your waterfront home project, get in touch with our team today.
PHONE 203.838.5517