Work in Progress

Home of Sharon Matzek and Robert Raymond

This newly built Arts & Crafts home sits on a quiet street a short walk from Silvershell Beach. It replaced a 1950s ‘Gunnison’ prefab ranch house that was the first house on Cove Street and had served the original owners, the Long family, and subsequent residents well for over 50 years. When Robert (BArch 1973), an architect, and Sharon decided to update and expand the ranch house, the prefab construction presented many obstacles, so the building was razed and a new 2 story design was developed to sit on the same foundation.

The goal was to use salvaged architectural objects, rich custom detailing and strong colors to bring a sense of history and romance back into modern home design. The inspiration was the summer camps, carriage houses and shingle style homes of coastal New England. The home is compact enough to be energy efficient yet has enough space for large family gatherings and reunions.

Special features include a double height glass conservatory, a 25’ high living/music room with custom matchstick board ceiling, a cupola at the top of the stairs; a salvaged Eastlake mantelpiece, recycled leaded glass and entry window and custom built Mission style staircase and balustrade. Extensive stained woodwork and robust Windsor trim complement Sharon’s rich southwestern color palette and eclectic collection of art objects for a warm and welcoming effect.

In the Arts & Crafts tradition local craftsmen including Greg Sullivan of Sippican Cottage Furniture, the McGuigans of NE conservatories and the Devlin brothers of Central Construction of Cape Cod lent their considerable talents (and wit) to the project.

Since moving in this April 2008, Robert and Sharon have enjoyed living in their dream house and hosting family and friends. Grandchildren in particular enjoy the playroom on the second floor and the tree house created especially for them.

Submitted to Boston Globe House of the year competition 2009
Selected for Marion house Tour December 2008