Sight Sea House by The Up Studio

The previous layout was closed off and compartmentalized by half walls and small punched window arrangements. By reclaiming unused balconies and reimagining the interior layout, the new design unlocked additional living space while maximizing views from the most used areas of the home.

In the original layout, one used to have to walk through each space to get to another. We resolved that by creating an inner spine of circulation that allowed us to push internal spaces over the perimeter wall to fully engage the family with redirected views. A continuous ribbon of floor-to-ceiling glazing opens up views of the water, balancing the interior and exterior ecosystems of style and scenery.

Repositioning the spine of the home allows the kitchen, living room, and dining areas to engage in a newly situated open floor plan that also encourages more gathering together. The minimalist kitchen acts as a functional boundary, transitioning the home’s bedrooms to its main gathering areas. The kitchen’s sleek, geometric design, built with handleless Bulthaup cabinets and a partial backsplash of Calacatta marble, guides views towards the ocean.

From the bedroom hallway, a monolithic terrazzo shower stall creates a sculptural gesture that piques interest. Clad in stone, it acts as both a focal point and a shield to views upon entry. The monumental form produces a momentary effect of compression upon entry, and gives the bathroom a sense of grandeur as the natural light and surrounding trees reveal themselves. Custom vanity millwork follows the exterior architecture and carries a consistent material palette with the rest of the home’s interiors.

Sight Sea’s emphasis on maximizing views and creating additional living space, while maintaining a minimalist yet striking aesthetic, demonstrates a fresh design solution. The project beautifully and thoughtfully improved functionality and livability, while providing the homeowners more opportunities to connect with nature and each other.