Northshore magazine showcases the best that the North Shore of Boston, MA has to offer.
Issue link: https://read.uberflip.com/i/380056
176 is, in a word, spectacular. Situated on the Neck, an island-like spot of land connect- ed to Marblehead proper by a causeway, the home faces open ocean—an expanse of blue that shifts from white-capped to gloomy grey depending on the day. The backyard boasts a rocky meet-and-greet of land with sea. The Shingle-style home was originally built at the turn of the last century as a summer retreat. The linear structure runs perpendicular to the ocean and street, an orientation that makes maximizing views from street-side locations a chal- lenge. Although generous in size, the mostly original interior (some updates were made along the way) was a warren of small rooms. The interior layouts were convoluted, and storage was lacking. Initially, the current owners ap- proached the Beverly-based architecture firm Siemasko + Verbridge about more mundane improvements, such as a new roof and heat and electrical updates. The kitchen was outdated, and the bathrooms were antiquated as well. But once design discussions began, the project's scope increased organically. "As part of our initial study, we couldn't stop ourselves from seeing better layout solutions," says principal Jean Verbridge. "Our design iterations promised better transmission of natural light and better views throughout." See- ing their home's potential, the owners warmed to the idea of a more comprehen- sive renovation and decided to invest in its future possibilities. Although their three children are grown, the couple defies the "empty-nest"