Special Advertising Section
➊ PROJECTS WE LOVE
Underground Sauna How is this project distinctive? The hidden gem on this property is the luxurious underground sauna. Tucked under the boathouse, it is the most amazing sauna we have ever had the privilege to work on. In collaboration with Maryann Thompson Architects and Tate Builders, the original saltbox home was transformed, and two new structures added. The traditional exteriors blend nicely with the surrounding Martha’s Vineyard meadow. The interior of the home positively soaks in the beautiful views, while the clean, modern aesthetic accommodates the family and all their guests. The new detached garage and a separate boathouse near the swimming pool are reminiscent of outbuildings common to older homes.
curves in toward the building creating a shaded patio. In addition, three elegant seating nooks are tucked into the shaded curved wall. Inside the boathouse there is organized storage space for small boats and outdoor gear, plus all the convenience of a pool cabana: restroom, kitchen, and both indoor and outdoor wash stations. Downstairs is the sauna with serpentine walls clad in tongue-andgroove western red cedar. The completed design is both extremely functional and welcoming. Multiple levels of gently-curved benches hug the walls and provide sufficient seating to socialize. Another lovely curved feature on this property is the outdoor shower that sits on the corner where the far wall curves around to the back of the building.
Why do you love this project? The boathouse is my favorite building on this property for three reasons: innovative design, practicality, and the sauna! Although the boathouse blends with the traditional style of the main house, it is definitely not a traditional structure. Rather than a four-sided building with 90-degree corners, one wall cleverly
Was there an “ah-ha” moment when you knew you were creating something unique for the homeowners? My “ah-ha” moment was more of a jaw-dropping moment. Seeing the finished sauna, even in a photograph, causes most people to exclaim “Wow!” This stunner has definitely raised the bar in sauna design.
110 New England Home | November-December 2019
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ARCHITECT: MARYANN THOMPSON | BUILDER: TATE BUILDERS DESIGN: SHELTER DESIGN STUDIO | PHOTOGRAPHY: CHUCK CHOI | AERIAL PHOTOGRAPHY: MARC FAIRSTEIN
10/18/19 12:59 PM