The home would feature the classic shingle-style exterior, characterized by its weathered cedar shingles that blend harmoniously with the coastal environment. The shingles would be installed in a traditional overlapping pattern, giving the house a textured, natural appearance that complements its seaside location. The color of the shingles could range from a soft gray or weathered brown to a natural wood finish, allowing the home to harmonize with the surrounding landscape, enhancing its connection to the water.

The house would have a welcoming, understated façade, with gentle curves and asymmetrical shapes typical of the shingle style, as well as wide eaves that offer a sense of protection from the elements. Large modern windows would be strategically placed to frame views of Long Island Sound from every room. The windows would feature clean, sleek lines, with wide panes of glass that reflect a contemporary design while still respecting the heritage of the shingle style. These windows might be full-height or picture windows, allowing natural light to flood the interior and offering unobstructed views of the water and surrounding greenery.

Inside, the tall ceilings would elevate the sense of openness and airiness, creating a grand, expansive feel. The great room, which would likely be the heart of the home, would feature vaulted or beamed ceilings, allowing for a spacious living area that feels expansive and connected to the natural environment. Exposed beams or natural wood accents would blend with the modern windows and sleek finishes, combining rustic charm with contemporary sophistication.

The home would embrace a modern, open floor plan, where the living, dining, and kitchen areas flow seamlessly into one another. The open design allows for easy movement and creates a sense of spaciousness that capitalizes on the stunning surroundings. The living room would likely feature comfortable, contemporary furniture and could include a large, central fireplace framed in natural stone or wood. The focus of this space would be on the views, with the large windows framing vistas of Long Island Sound, bringing the outside in.

The modern windows would be a key feature of the design, providing not only sweeping views of the coastline but also allowing natural light to flood the interior. The windows could be in expansive panels that slide open to connect the indoors with the outdoor living spaces, such as a large deck or patio that extends the living area into the natural landscape. The light, airy feel of the home would be enhanced by the seamless connection to the outdoors, with views of the sound serving as the backdrop to daily life.

The windows would also offer opportunities for ventilation, making the home feel fresh and inviting, even in warmer months. Sliding or bifold doors might open from the living room or dining area to the outdoor spaces, blurring the lines between the interior and exterior and allowing for easy access to the water’s edge or the home’s outdoor entertainment areas.

The home’s exterior would feature large covered porches or terraces designed for enjoying the coastal breezes and views. These outdoor spaces could include areas for dining, lounging, or entertaining, with comfortable seating and outdoor kitchens or fire pits that extend the living areas outside. The landscaping would be simple yet elegant, with native grasses, coastal plants, and stone walkways, blending seamlessly with the natural environment.

A pool or hot tub could be integrated into the outdoor living area, perhaps overlooking the water, creating a serene space for relaxation. Adock or private beach access could also be part of the design, offering easy access to Long Island Sound for boating or swimming.

The interior design would reflect a balance of casual elegance and coastal charm, with natural materials and a light, neutral color palette to echo the serenity of the surrounding environment. The floors might be wide-plank wood or stone that brings texture and warmth to the home, while white or light gray walls would create a soft backdrop for the natural beauty outside.

The kitchen would be spacious and modern, with high-end appliances, sleek cabinetry, and an oversized island that serves as both a prep area and a place for casual meals or entertaining. A large dining area would be positioned near the windows, offering a front-row seat to the water views. The home would likely feature open shelving or glass-front cabinets, allowing the kitchen’s design to feel as airy and open as the rest of the home.

The bedrooms would maintain the airy, light-filled ambiance, with large windows allowing for views of the water or the lush coastal landscape. The master suite would be a private retreat, with an en-suite bathroom featuring luxurious finishes like a freestanding soaking tub with water views, a walk-in shower, and dual vanities. The master bedroom would open onto a private balcony or terrace, where one could enjoy the fresh sea air and the calming sounds of the water.

Given the location near Long Island Sound, the home could incorporate sustainable design elements, such as solar panels, rainwater harvesting, and energy-efficient systems to reduce its environmental footprint. High-performance insulation, low-E windows, and smart home technology could ensure comfort year-round while maintaining energy efficiency.

This shingle-style home on Long Island Sound would be a perfect blend of traditional elegance and modern living. The large modern windows and tall ceilings would create an inviting, open atmosphere that takes full advantage of the surrounding coastal beauty. Whether lounging indoors with a view of the water or entertaining on the outdoor terrace, the home would offer a serene, stylish retreat that celebrates the best of both classic and contemporary design.

Architecture: Tanner White Architects

Interior design and Builder: SBP Homes