A couple recently relocated from Charlestown and Provincetown to Truro after discovering a cottage for sale along the Pamet marshes. The discovery occurred during a fishing outing near Pamet Harbor with friends, including their real estate agent, who informed them about the newly listed century-old property on a tidal pond. The couple, seeking a more spacious residence in Truro, arranged a viewing the following day. The view at high tide convinced them to purchase the home and make the move full time.
The original cottage, although set on a well-maintained foundation, was not suitable for year-round living and did not take full advantage of its scenic location. Architectural designer Nick Waldman, founder of Nick Waldman Studio and a native of the area, was enlisted to redesign the residence. Under local conservation guidelines, the house’s footprint was required to remain unchanged due to its proximity within 100 feet of a coastal dune, limiting expansions. The focus shifted to building a modern, two-story home atop the existing foundation that would open up the view and enhance energy efficiency.
Embracing the Outer Cape’s tradition of modern architecture, the design features a flat roof with solar panels and predominantly electric systems. The new residence encompasses approximately 1,243 square feet on the main level, with an open-concept layout combining the kitchen, living, and dining areas. Large windows, doors, and an adjoining deck all face the marsh, maximizing natural light and views. The interior includes exposed timber floor joists and nine-foot ceilings, imparting a sense of spaciousness.
The entire 793-square-foot second floor is dedicated to a primary suite with expansive glass walls overlooking the tidal landscape. The bathroom incorporates two mirrors suspended before windows above a double vanity, preserving the views while adding a distinctive aesthetic element. A soaking tub situated beneath a skylight offers direct sightlines to the sky, drawing inspiration from the works of light artist James Turrell. This feature provides ambient natural light and visually striking shadows throughout the day.
On the main level, a powder room distinguishes itself with dark turquoise tiling, walnut framing, and sculptural fixtures, intended to create an intimate, jewel-like space. Adjacent to the bedroom, a screened porch was included at the homeowners’ request, reflecting a tradition common in the southern United States where one of the spouses grew up. The porch allows for outdoor enjoyment without insect nuisances.
Exterior design elements incorporate horizontal Alaskan yellow cedar siding accented by vertical motifs repeated in features such as the entryway door and staircase slats. The surrounding yard softens the home’s geometry with curving paths and plantings of feather grasses, lavender, and Russian sage. The couple collaborated with landscape designer Carl Lindgren, complementing their own gardening efforts.
Overall, the project sought to create a “casual but sophisticated” home that respects the site’s natural beauty and environmental regulations while providing a light-filled, modern living space. Waldman reflected on the unique opportunity to work on the Pamet marshes, an area he has long appreciated from his upbringing in the region.