Asking $1.4M, This Cape Cod Hideaway Was Made for Forest Bathing

The modernist-inspired design by Hundred Mile House features elevated living areas with a direct connection to the shady pine forest.

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Kathryn M.

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In a forested enclave near the small town of Wellfleet, Massachusetts—between the "tip" and "elbow" of Cape Cod—sits a striking three-bedroom residence that almost disappears into the natural setting. The home is the brainchild of designer Duane Smith of Hundred Mile House, who built the property in 2006 after becoming inspired by the area’s midcentury heritage.

Known as the Pond Ave House, the three-bedroom dwelling was built in 2006 by award-winning designer Duane Smith of Hundred Mile House. When designing the property, Smith was inspired by both the area’s midcentury heritage (including projects by Marcel Breuer and Walter Gropius), as well as more subtle Cape Cod elements—such as rugged concrete seawalls and rich black-brown pine tree bark.

The living spaces are located on the second floor as a way to create a more intimate connection with the surrounding forest. Custom Arcadia windows wrap around the spacious sitting area, framing sweeping views of the nearby oak, pine, birch, and cherry trees. Sliding glass doors open up to the adjacent terrace, extending the living spaces outdoors.

Since being completed, the home has been featured in numerous books and magazines for the way it captures the site. By putting the bedrooms and private spaces on the lower level, the primary living areas are raised into the treetops, immersing residents in the forest. "The intention with the design was to encourage relaxation and appreciation of the environment," notes the architecture firm. "The main entrance is on the second level at the back of the house, which also makes you travel a bit from the driveway and around the house. So you’re forced to appreciate the natural surroundings."

The well-lit kitchen, located steps from the living room, is equipped with all new appliances, as well as plenty of counter space. Wooden countertops tie back to the encompassing forest.

While the exterior features a mixture of glass and black-stained mahogany siding to blend the dwelling into the surrounding forest, the interiors are dressed with a crisp shade of white, which contrasts against the black-framed windows and polished concrete floors. Wooden staircases add to the mix of materials.

"The stairs help slow one down on the ascent and descent through the long, shallow steps," explains the firm. "This almost forces you to not rush as you head upstairs in the morning or head downstairs to take a shower."

A minimalist wooden staircase connects the home’s two levels.

Large windows allow natural light to sweep inside, creating patterns against the white walls.

Measuring 2,400 square feet, the home spreads out across two floors and offers three bedrooms, all of which are located on the lower level. The firm designed this level with limited views into the courtyard. "Since you can’t see any traffic or other activity," they say, "the focus is on the sun and gentle sway of the bamboo so you’re again reminded to slow down and appreciate the subtleties of the natural environment." Scroll ahead to see more of the property, currently listed for $1,399,000.