built in benches

The home’s modest size meant Caleb did not have to worry too much about material and labor costs. For example, all the interior walls are done in plaster, which is three-to-four times more expensive than drywall in Maine.

Shannon Richards, Caleb’s partner, often uses her laptop at the 13-foot long banquette, which needed to be finessed a bit because the initial version looked too bulky. The team laid the maple floorboards at an angle and used a white-tinged stain that will preserve their natural appearance.

The built-in sectional in the "dank lounge

Extruded bay windows become sleeping nooks for the kids.

Extruded bay windows become a special area for the kids.

“The fireplace really turns out to be a focus of the deck and the house,” says Marlatt. “We use it a lot more than I ever thought we would, frankly.”

A built-in couch sits against birch plywood walls.

The great room in the new addition. “Every day walking into that big room, you just have that, ‘Oh, wow,’ moment,” says Marlatt.

Upstairs, three small bedrooms share a bathroom.

Discrete storage is designed into the bottom of the booth, while the seat is upholstered in vegan leather made from pineapple skin as both the owners are strict vegetarians.

The couple are also design lovers, particularly when it comes to vintage furniture. The study is furnished with a Saarinen Table by Knoll and Thonet Cantilever Chairs.

The built-in nook is the perfect spot to read, while the shelves mimic the shape of the hideaway staircase on the left side.

A full-length window seat overlooks views of the beach and the bay.

A long bench seat is built into the rear wall of the living room, allowing for various seating configurations and a relaxed atmosphere.

A custom dining table by Godar Furniture can seat up to 12 with an extension. Its walnut base lightly contrasts the oak chairs with leather seats. In the background, a coffee bar was organized by Haven Home.