The Owner had a beach house on the site for over 15 years.  She had also spent many enjoyable weekends at a Victorian Cape May, NJ bed and breakfast.  Her design request was to build a new home that kept the charm of her house; the feel of the grand Victorians; was handicap accessible; and incorporated spaces for her antiques and art.  All of the program had to be accomplished within the tight building code dimensions including a max 30 foot height.

Beth's solution was a nod to the Queen Anne style with relaxing spaces that open to allow light, sea breezes and movement throughout.

There are four vertical elements placed on each side of the home. An octagonal tower in front provides for a sunny Breakfast room and the Artist's Studio on the second floor.  On the south facade are the bay windows for the Kitchen and Master Bath. The rear element provides a sunset view from the formal dining room.  The home's anchor - the Grand staircase tower is in the middle of the home and faces north with window seats at both landings.  By creating a winsome arched opening from the Kitchen into the Grand staircase hall, Beth allows the Owner to open windows in each tower and enjoy natural light and air conditioning for the summer season.

The third floor, uncommon with this height, is carefully tucked into dormers.  The guest apartment here has its own deck and can be reached by stairs or elevator.  There are arched openings, accent walls and lighting to enhance antiques and art.