Modern in Long Beach

My husband and I moved to New York from Southern California several years ago, bringing with us a love of the architecture, especially the newly evolving “California Modern” style. When we adopted our kids, we moved from the Village to the south shore of Long Island to give our family the waterfront/boating/beach lifestyle that we love – at least for 4-5 months of the year. In the spring of 2012, we decided to go “all in” and move to Long Beach for the ultimate beach experience--- boat in the back yard, walk to the beach, laid back people. We found a fixer upper on a unique piece of land: open bayfront plus a protected canal across from a park and the most amazing views we had ever seen (see aerial photo). The house itself was pretty rough, from the foundation to the finishes, but we planned to rebuild after a few years of living there.

That “a few years” schedule flew out the window when SuperStorm Sandy hit 5 short months later! As with all waterfront property, we experienced wind and water that our 1950’s era split level was not designed or maintained to take. As we assessed the situation, it was clear that now was the time to replace, not repair. We had noticed that the innovative modern designs we loved in LA were becoming popular on the East End of the island, and believed it was only a question of time that the same trend would come to our area. We also felt strongly that the style lent itself well to a FEMA compliant raised home that wouldn’t look awkwardly “stilted”, but our desire to even exceed the minimum of the new standards would integrate organically (see street view photo).

Part of the rebuilding process goal was to keep the work as local to our devastated community as possible, so we hired local architect George Bella and contracted with Refinements- both owned by individuals who had grown up in the area and were also committed to bringing Long Beach back better than ever. Refinements was one of the few local firms who had experience with modern architecture and the more exacting standards that are needed to execute it. Anthony Rector of Refinements also was a boater who lived on the bay himself and had years of personal experience in discovering the little elements that needed to maximize waterfront living.

We didn’t want or need a huge house, but wanted one that “lived large” by bringing in elements of nature and the water from every angle. The design captures that, but also provides defined spaces that function as a wonderful family home and a great entertaining space. While the home has clean and modern lines, it is also cozy, with 3 fireplaces, dark bamboo floors and a deliberate mix of modern and classic appointments. The sloped roof allowed for a significant solar installation, and energy efficiency was considered in all mechanical selections.

The property is not large (common in beach towns), but has been carefully designed to maximize the space. We have entertained up to 100 people in our home easily, with 6 different “conversation spots” on different levels, centered around the salt water pool. Because of our love for easy indoor/outdoor living, we updated the great room and kitchen floor to waterproof luxury plank vinyl so friends and family can run in and out without worry.

In the six years since we completed construction, our prediction for modern architecture taking off here has come true—several waterfront locations on Long Beach Island are under construction in this style. Our home has been featured in Long Beach’s 2018 calendar, and we currently have editorial coverage pending with Newsday. We have not yet submitted to the Times or WSJ, but may do so in the coming weeks.

The house is on the market currently for $2,399,000. Address below. Listing broker is Ruth Redlener of RealtyConnect.