Connecticut Shingle Style Residence

Connecticut Shingle Style Residence

Originally designed by MFA and completed in 2001, this New Canaan Shingle Style residence underwent a transformative renovation in 2019 to better align with the evolving needs of its original owners. The redesign centered on creating a more open and fluid floor plan while introducing abundant natural light, with the kitchen and family room serving as the focal point of the intervention.

As the family grew, the program shifted to prioritize informal gathering and daily living. A key move was the introduction of a dedicated dining area within the kitchen—previously absent—achieved by extending the footprint into the landscape with a fully glazed volume. This addition creates an immersive experience, allowing the surrounding natural setting to become an integral part of everyday life.

The kitchen and family room underwent the most significant stylistic evolution, embracing a contemporary aesthetic while remaining grounded in the home’s original architectural language. A refined material palette—white cabinetry, natural oak beams, concrete countertops, and a custom metal hood—balances warmth and modernity, seamlessly blending current sensibilities with the enduring character of the Shingle Style tradition.

Photography: Ellen McDermott
Interiors: Dominic Rotondi
Featured In: CT Cottages & Gardens