Broad Creek Waterfront Retreat

Royal Oak, Maryland

The busy owners of this Eastern Shore family retreat wanted the residence to embody the informal open living of their favorite vacation destinations, with spaces both ample to accommodate large gatherings with their adult children and a growing number of grandchildren, in addition to more intimate spaces for the two of them. The house reflects a combination of influences: beachfront vernacular, Carolina coast, Shingle-style and an island-feeling outdoor space – together, evoking a Chesapeake character.

Set on a wide expanse of land, it is organized as a linear composition, allowing broad water views from every room in the house. A primary hall element connects a first-floor master suite at one end to a spacious sunroom at the other end, perfect for enjoying watery sunsets within view of the lanai, with its full outdoor kitchen, fireplace-centered covered seating area, and large saltwater pool. At the push of a button, the lanai can be screened in, allowing afternoons to turn into evenings without the company of mosquitoes. An artfully curved staircase unites foyer and living room, whose double-volume space brings an abundance of natural light deep into the house. A tower element contains a second stair that leads to a large “secret” third floor dormitory room to be shared by grandchildren; its door concealed in a hinged bookcase.