In many remodel projects, constraints provide fertile ground for creative solutions. Such was the case with this top-to-bottom makeover of a Montauk beach house. The original plan was a mishmash of ideas and tight spaces, so in 2018 the homeowners reached out to Descience Lab to transform it into a more cohesive, open retreat. The design/build workshop specializes in architectural millwork, and they stepped in to remodel the 2,600-square-foot home while preserving the sensitive wetland that surrounds it.

Before: Front Facade

After: Front Facade

The clients and design team opted to update the existing structure rather than demolishing and starting over. This meant working with the original footprint, window openings, and many of the existing plumbing locations. “The challenge was to replace like and kind,” says Project Manager Jason Chernak. “We didn’t have carte blanche in that respect.”

The first phase of the project addressed the exterior. The team removed the existing eaves and clapboard siding, then wrapped the entire home in a rain screen composed of Meranti, a wood commonly used in boat building. The existing window openings received new black-framed units for sharp contrast, and metal accents at the bay window and rooftop cupola lend mellow patina.

Before: Rear Facade

The deck was also rebuilt within the same footprint. A cable railing offers better sight lines out to the water, and two new outdoor showers, one open and one private, are tucked beneath.

After: Rear Facade

For the second phase of the project, the team tackled the interior. Descience Lab decked out rooms with custom millwork and furniture, unifying the living spaces, and directing views to the place everyone wants to look: the water.

“Pretty much everything was built in our 8,000-square-foot wood shop in Greenpoint, Brooklyn, allowing the design to happen organically,” says Chernak. “As certain rooms started to take shape, they informed the next room—and things could change and evolve as we went.”

Before: Kitchen

After: Kitchen

Before: Living Area

After: Living and Dining Area

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After: Bedrooms and Principal Bathroom

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Project Credits:

Interior Design: Descience Lab / @desciencelab

Builder: Paul Cleary Construction

Landscape Design: Piazza Horticultural

Cabinetry Design: Descience Lab