Renovating a home brings its unique set of challenges, especially when dealing with a structure as intricate as a Cape Cod–style cottage. For interior designer Meghan Shadrick, transforming this residence in Harwich Port, Massachusetts, was a journey of knowing when to indulge in extensive renovations and when to refrain. While some areas required a complete overhaul due to hidden structural issues, others were enhanced with cosmetic improvements that aligned the vintage charm with contemporary appeal.
PROJECT OVERVIEW
Architect: Joe Fournier
Location: Harwich Port, Massachusetts
Interior Designer: Meghan Shadrick
Builder: Mike Pierce of Pierce Building Company
Style: Cape Cod–style Cottage
The project was not without its complexities; during demolition, unforeseen structural problems such as rotten floorboards and inadequately modified support beams were uncovered. These issues demanded practical solutions that momentarily overshadowed the creative aspects of the renovation. Shadrick, alongside architect Joe Fournier and builder Mike Pierce, navigated these hurdles with a focus on safety and longevity. Once the structural integrity was assured, the team turned its attention to the creative challenges that make home renovation rewarding.
In the living room, Shadrick blended a beachy vintage vibe with modern elements, creating an inviting atmosphere perfect for the home’s coastal setting. A comfortable leather sofa, sourced as a bargain, became the centerpiece, complemented by vintage finds and textiles that add layers of character and warmth. The dark, moody ambiance enhanced by woven rush chairs and a whiskey-colored sofa offers a cozy retreat for the homeowners during cold winter months.
The kitchen, however, was where the homeowners made their most significant investment, transforming it into a dynamic hub for entertaining and culinary endeavors. Custom cabinetry in wire-brushed cerused white oak became a standout feature, requiring creative solutions to accommodate structural constraints like low ceilings. The kitchen’s design was skillfully elongated to give an impression of height and connected to adjacent cabinetry to maintain a harmonious flow throughout the space.
Upstairs, the low ceilings and sloping roofline of the bedrooms inspired creative ingenuity. Shadrick crafted intimate nooks that turned these rooms into charming retreats. The use of wallpaper to cover both walls and ceilings in one of the children’s bedrooms was a novel approach that not only made the room appear larger but also served to distract the eye from the ceiling’s low height. This clever use of patterns and built-in furnishings maximized functionality and aesthetic appeal, even in the property’s most compact spaces.
Each area of the house was meticulously transformed to maintain consistency and reflect the home’s history. The mudroom, part of a newer addition, was redesigned with nostalgic paneling that aligned with existing elements found in the older parts of the house. Shadrick’s thoughtful approach to design weaves a seamless narrative throughout the cottage, creating a space that feels enriched by its past yet equipped for modern living. Through inventive solutions and a keen eye for detail, the renovation pays homage to the cottage’s heritage while providing a fresh, functional environment tailored to the homeowners’ lifestyle.
