International Design on Ring’s Island

The husband is from Switzerland, the wife from Kansas. They sought a Net Zero, contemporary designed home suitable for the two of them. Yet easy to accommodate their two adult children when they return with friends or future families. The setting is a quiet neighborhood near the Merrimac River and Newburyport, Massachusetts. The homes here are tightly arranged on a narrow street.  

A local zoning procedure evolved into a neighborhood design review. The owner’s goal was for a contemporary design. Project Architect Rick Bernard worked some detail magic to preserve elements of a modern home while satisfying the neighbors desire for a home that fit within the 18^th and 19^th century historic styles of the adjacent structures.  

Energy efficiency was achieved with sensible insulation details that exceeded building code requirements. A solar array provides power adequate for their living needs. Thoughtfully sized individual rooms and communal spaces allow for shared and private gatherings. This "Forever Home" was designed with the primary living and sleeping spaces on the main floor level. Tucking the connected garage behind the home allowed it to be a few steps below the main floor level. 

In good weather, the owners enjoy a covered outdoor space that is adjacent to a small garden. The husband’s office is a short walk away. This space was achieved by renovating a small outbuilding.    

A study and the two grown children’s bedrooms are on the second floor. A small escape nook and adjacent outdoor deck are perched – bird’s nest like – at the third-floor level. From the deck, one can gaze across the Merrimac River to Newburyport. Net Zero and views to Newburyport.

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