After living in Germany for 20 years, the owner decided to retire at her family’s summer homestead, a scenic property near Sakonnet River. The original house, known appropriately as “Menagerie,” was made from a chicken coop and garden sheds attached to each other along a ridge. The new design aimed to preserve its charm while improving views and using modern, energy-efficient construction.

We designed a collection of task-specific buildings with nostalgic intent. Given the grade change, the garage straddles the upper approach level down to the house level with traditional garage above and access to storage and trash at the lower patio. A salvaged brick walkway leads to the entry hall, which features river views. The living room building sits by the wetlands with expansive glass that captures views of the meadow down to the river. The central gable houses the kitchen and dining area which accesses a west deck via three large sliding doors, while pantry, laundry, powder room, and mudroom are tucked behind. A glass passage separates the bedroom wing from the public spaces. The termination of this collection is a tiny house, linked via a small deck, and serves as an office and guest space. All structures feature framed or open views of the meadow and river, and a solar array supplies the home's electricity and heat.

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Gale Goff Architect

Leslie Costa, Landscape Designer

DBR Builders

Anthony Crisafulli, Photographer