This estate sits atop a hill with an expanse of lawn, lush gardens and views to the sea. The arrival court features a custom-designed fountain within an elliptical courtyard of granite and permeable pavers for stormwater infiltration. Building the driveway and parking area required extensive site regrading, as well as realignment of portions of an existing granite retaining wall. We sourced large-scale, salvaged granite locally, and newly constructed retaining walls throughout the property use local Cape Ann granite.

Trees frame views of the sea and perennials. Topiary and a reconstructed historic water garden and fountain (planted with water lilies and lotus) are all sited within a sunken garden that provides shelter from the site’s strong winds. The back of the home features new bluestone terraces offering sweeping ocean views. Along the water’s edge, mature trees were pruned to enhance their health and the views they frame. The most recent phase of work included a partial swimming pool reconstruction, granite terraces, a custom limestone and granite outdoor kitchen island, stone fire pit, stone seat walls and a new deck adjacent to the swimming pool.

Designer: Halvorson Design, Inc. / Photography: Justine Hand

Beach Residence

Swathes of grasses and perennials unite the main house, boathouse, beach house and guest house. Granite was used throughout the property, including salvaged granite for the paving and interior courtyard. Other features include Ipe wood decks and boardwalks, stone veneer on the house, chimneys, interior fireplaces and entryway, and special plantings and reinforcements to stabilize the dunes. Native plants were utilized throughout the property.

Designer: Studio 2112 / Photography: Studio 2112

Great Island Residence

An entry drive, enclosed garden, Japanese fern and moss garden, dry pond and cutting garden were added to this ocean-front estate. The choice of locally sourced granite makes a series of stone walls feel like they’ve always been there. The walls also create and enclose multiple garden rooms, connected by elaborate stone walkways using a mixture of materials and finishes.

Designer: Morgan Wheelock Inc. / Photography: Morgan Wheelock Inc.