A Japandi Inspired Home in Cape Neddick, Maine

Inspired by the Japandi aesthetic, Kevin Browne Architecture designed this 3,400-square-foot residence as a response to its waterfront site. The exterior features a mix of vertical stained-cedar siding, horizontal white nickel-gap siding, black trim, and ipe decking. A portion of the roof is planted, which aids in cooling and absorbing stormwater runoff, while another area features solar panels to offset the home’s electric loads.

Architect Kevin Browne wanted visitors to see straight through the house and out to the ocean upon arrival. The first floor features an entertaining-friendly open plan as well as a private primary suite, while the guest quarters occupy the top floor.

The upper level cantilevers above the main living areas, providing the deck with a bit of protection from the elements; in addition to a balcony, the house features an outdoor shower and a plunge pool.

Ash paneling helps delineate the living room within the open floor plan, while the simple glass fireplace and concrete hearth serve as the room’s focal point. The artwork is by Claire Seidl.

In the dining area, a table from the clients’ own collection pairs with lighting and chairs from Room & Board; the adjacent wet bar features custom cabinetry from Kitchen Cove Design Studio and Ann Sacks backsplash tile.

Ash paneling also appears in the stairway, where a bentwood light fixture from Luceplan takes center stage.

A second-floor guest room affords expansive views of the rocky coast.

Located on the upper level just outside the den—which is complete with a wet bar—is a ladder leading to two bunk spaces; the rope detailing recalls the fishing nets on passing boats.

Reimagining a Cape Neddick Home

Having lived in a 1960s residence on this Cape Neddick, Maine, property for the better part of a decade, these Washington, D.C.–based clients already had a good handle on their priorities for a new house. When the time came to reimagine their beloved waterfront site, the couple’s first call was to local builder Richard Moody & Sons Construction.

“The previous structure had a non-traditional shape that mirrored the shoreline, which forms a point,” recalls builder Jason Moody. “It was interesting and unique, but it didn’t properly capture the views.”

After hearing the couple’s goals, Moody wasted no time connecting them with Falmouth, Maine, firm Kevin Browne Architecture. Aside from optimizing ocean views, the mandates included a private primary suite on the main floor, a place to work, an open floor plan for entertaining, and ample space for overnight guests.

Contemporary Architecture Maximizes Ocean Views and Outdoor Living

“The clients’ inspiration images were very contemporary, with simple forms and lots of glass,” says Browne, who also cites Japandi influences (a mix of Japanese and Scandinavian aesthetics). The resulting 3,400-square-foot three-bedroom residence features a sleek mix of stained cedar and painted white siding, black trim, and an abundance of glazing.

“The second floor looks like a box placed atop the lower level,” says the architect. “This overhang provides the deck with some protection from the sun and rain.”

Speaking of which, the deck was a critical factor in the design, given that the clients wanted to recreate the vantage point that the original home’s elevated deck offered.

“To decide on the height of the main floor and visualize how the house would sit on the property, Jason’s team built temporary platforms for the clients to stand on,” notes Browne, who also worked closely with landscape architect Soren Deniord on the site plan.

Warm Minimalist Interiors Add Personality to the Coastal Retreat

The Japandi aesthetic is carried inside, where wood, concrete, and black accents lend interest to the neutral palette.

“The design is driven by restraint, with natural textures, clean lines, and pops of color in the form of art and textiles,” says interior designer Andrea DiBello of Kevin Browne Architecture. “We did incorporate a few playful details, such as the shark wallpaper in the
powder room, rope netting in the bunk areas above the den, and a bentwood pendant light hovering above the staircase like a bird in flight. These are fun clients, so it was important to imbue the house with some personality.”

Project Team
Architecture and interior design: Kevin Browne Architecture
Builder: Richard Moody & Sons Construction
Landscape design: Soren Deniord Design Studio