The architect wanted to avoid a basic boxy look , so creating interesting features became an important design challenge . “ I suggested that the Polings create an idea book on [ the website ] Houzz for inspiration ,” says Carlisle . The front entrance portico , along with several covered and open decks that create shadows , and a generous number of well-positioned windows , add understated accents . The cupola , with its sailing ship , perches atop the garage and comes from Rod ’ s stash of weathered must-keeps .
No one wants to spend valuable beach time doing laundry and house cleaning . There ’ s a washer / dryer on both the first and third floors , and the quartz counters in the second-floor kitchen are virtually indestructible , says Lynn . The easy living vibe extends to the spa-like master bath with Carrara marble and the dining area , with its roomy oak table that Rod fashioned out of pews from their former Massachusetts church . Of the Crate and Barrel chairs , Lynn says , “ I wanted something the kids could sit on in wet bathing suits .”
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