No matter how tight-knit a family, there comes a time when the younger generation has to strike out on its own. For a couple with three teenage children, that point came while building their dream vacation house in Osterville, Massachusetts—right next door to the wife’s parents. Though they followed her mom and dad’s lead when it came to selecting the architects (Arthur Hanlon and Jose Goncalves of Shope Reno Wharton), the couple chose a different direction for the interiors, which led them to Michael Cox and Mary Foley of New York design firm Foley & Cox. “Most homes in the area have a similar traditional, New England feel,” says the wife. “Our goal was to create a more contemporary look. We wanted to make sure the house was livable and comfortable for our entire family.”
The designers set to work assembling a modern mix of furnishings that would bring a fresh feel to the Cape-style house, blending comfortable—and durable—seating with contemporary accents in Lucite and stainless steel. “We wanted to create a sense of surprise,” says Cox. For the palette, they worked in neutral seaside shades while taking inspiration from the clients’ art collection, including pieces by Alex Katz and James Nares in the great room, to add pops of color. Foley and Cox also made a statement with eye-catching light fixtures throughout, from the Roll & Hill pendant in the dining area to the Noguchi lanterns in the daughter’s bedroom. “The lighting is very modern and new,” says Foley. “It’s not the sort of thing that you would typically find in a home like this.”
This being truly a family affair, the youngest members of the household were called upon to assist in the design of their bedrooms. “We worked with them and tried to make sure that the rooms reflected each of the kids,” says Cox. For the parents, the designers crafted a serene suite complete with a wood-paneled sitting room and terrace overlooking the water, a private version of the larger one where they often entertain guests. With plenty of space for kids and visitors, the home has become the perfect family haven. And as for their decision to blaze their own stylish trail, the clients have no regrets. Says the wife, “Every room is more incredible than the last.”
