A new private boathouse on the Cape May, N.J. waterfront appears as if it has been part of the historic town’s landscape for years thanks to a design that combines Old World craftsmanship with its modern amenities. The seaside retreat is a certified LEED project with natural and reclaimed materials playing a large part in the design.

The two-story notched and pegged timber structure features natural cedar trim as well as three custom-made sliding mahogany doors. An existing windmill on the property is utilized to help provide energy to the house. A two-story frameless glass curtain wall, a centerpiece, lets in natural light as well as provides unobstructed panoramic views of the water. Additional motorized windows at the roof line open to let out heat and keep cooling costs down. There is a full-insulated 6” core to the walls that is invisible and provides for energy efficiency. Floors are made of reclaimed oak planks. The whole space is lit with low-voltage lighting that accents the timber structure and the exposed ductwork.

In addition to the large open living space, the boathouse retreat also features a galley kitchen with custom-welded stainless steel counter and sink, and a sleeping loft. The interior is an eclectic mix of modern furniture, such as classic white leather Barcelona loungers, alongside found objects appropriate to the environment, including surfboards, fishing poles and tackle.