Katama Bay Compound

Edgartown Harbor, MA

Because this property’s water views are on the right of its acreage, this newly built double-gambrel cottage required an unexpected orientation. The back of the house—featuring the most-used spaces and largest expanses of glass—looks to the bay, with the entrance façade opposite, meaning one of its sides, rather than its front, faces the street.

A red brick path meanders up a lawn to the front door, which is lined up, across the grass, with a gated arbor. The gate provides access through a privet hedge to the bluestone-terraced pool area and cabana. Fronting the street, a three-bay carriage house with guest suite above shields the pool from passing traffic.

Inside, clerestory dormers and three pairs of French doors that open to the rear porch flood the entry foyer and a double-height family room with light. The right wing hosts the primary gathering areas in a fairly open floor plan, while the left wing hosts the more formal living spaces.

Despite its somewhat surprising setup, the house easily embraces both residents and guests. Rotating the house’s expected orientation allows it to maximize water views and make the most of its acreage. This establishes it as a welcoming and wonderful summer retreat.