Nantucket has been a prominent fixture in American culture for centuries, from classic literature like Herman Melville’s Moby Dick to acclaimed films such as Summer of ’42. For Clare Casademont and Michael Metz, a couple from Houston, their connection to the island has evolved over time, starting with memorable summer rentals in Siasconset. Their love for Nantucket led them to purchase a small house in Surfside, but they soon realized it lacked the space to entertain and showcase their art collection.
After searching for their dream home, they found a unique property in Monomoy that required a complete renovation. With the help of Workshop/APD, an esteemed architecture and design firm, the couple transformed the house to suit their lifestyle and maximize its stunning location.
The revamped home now features a spacious entryway that extends towards the water, creating a welcoming atmosphere for guests. The foyer is adorned with elegant furniture and artwork, including a round bluestone-topped table, stylish stools, and a striking piece by artist Pat Steir.
Embrace the allure of this enchanting island escape and create your own story amidst the beauty of Nantucket.
Welcome vignette. The area rug is from ALT for Living and the Scarabe side chair by Laura Kirar is from Maison Gerard.
In the living room, the space was originally divided into three separate areas, but has now been opened up into one larger area to showcase the spectacular view. The furniture chosen for this second home is tailored to the homeowners’ lifestyle and complements the sculptural elements of the home. A custom sofa by Workshop/APD upholstered in a Rogers & Goffigon textile, a Tombos coffee table from Atelier Stefan Leo, teak chair from Carlyle Collective, and a vintage Italian lounge chair from Forsyth Art create a harmonious flow in the space. A Kevin Walz daybed from Ralph Pucci and a Cable side table from Alexander Lamont sit against the window, while a custom shaped wool rug from Doris Leslie Blau ties the room together.
The fireplace in the living room is a modern focal point that extends into the dining room and kitchen, creating a cohesive design element throughout the space. A custom designed marble fireplace mantel features a sculpture by William Lamarley, with a pair of sculptural stools by Gio Ponti positioned in front.
In the dining room, a banquette serves as the primary dining space, offering comfort and a view of the harbor. The custom banquette and table by Workshop/APD, along with six #634 walnut dining chairs by Carlo de Carli for Cassina, create an intimate dining setting. Artwork by Suzan Frecon and a painted bronze sculpture by Mark Manders add visual interest to the space.
The kitchen has been relocated to offer views of a beautiful garden on the south side of the house. The space features three Carlotta barstools from Nacho Polo’s Studio Twenty Seven, a custom travertine island by Workshop/APD, and a Mobile Chandelier 8 from The Future Perfect.
In the media room, a custom sectional by Workshop/APD upholstered in Holland & Sherry leather and boucle textile from Rogers & Goffigon provides a cozy seating area. A custom cocktail table, Aloe Loop area rug from ALT for Living, and an oil on canvas artwork complete the inviting space with panoramic views of the harbor.
Etel Adnan
Powder Room
The custom mirror by Workshop/APD features a Slim End to End wall sconce from Articolo Studios, with the vanity in honed Perla Venata marble also by Workshop/APD. Architect Kotchen notes, “In all our projects we always balance materiality, texture and tone, and here we did a sweet little customized sink and vanity.”
Stair
A dramatic stairway greets guests upon entry, with glass and steel-framed thresholds designed by Workshop/APD that redefine the home’s circulation flow.
Upstairs Hall
Described by the architect as a “sort of a gasket,” a windowed hallway connects Metz’s study to the couple’s bedroom. A rustic wood table from 1stDibs and a vase by Judy Legerwood from 1301PE Gallery in Los Angeles adorn this space.
Primary Bedroom
The primary bedroom offers a serene retreat for the homeowners, boasting sweeping eastern views. A custom king bed by Workshop/APD, a mohair throw from Lena Rewell Textile Studio Ltd., bespoke pillows from Pat McGann Gallery, leather side table nightstands from BDDW, and Bruno table lamps from Elan Atelier furnish the room.
“I didn’t want the art to compete with the beautiful harbor views,” says Casademont. “It had to be much quieter and not feel bold or splashy. I really love the wall I created in here; it includes works by many Latin American artists from Sicardi Gallery in Houston that reference nature.” The custom desk is from Bradley Clifford Design, the Eleor chair is from De Merry Paris, and the stool is an antique basket from the client’s grandmother, with a Nangis table lamp from Forom and a small sculpture from a trip to Mexico.
Primary Bathroom
Clad in Stormy Grey travertine with fittings from Waterworks, the primary bathroom features a rock sculpture by Polish artist Alicia Kwade hanging over the bathtub.
Laundry Room
The entry point from the guest cottage to the main house functions as an all-purpose laundry and mudroom.
Pool
Workshop/APD revamped the home’s rear exterior, adding a 60-foot lap pool and spa, essential for the clients who enjoy daily swims and outdoor living.
The significant renovation included relocating the kitchen and expanding a second-floor bedroom. “It was a complete, extensive renovation,” Metz comments. “We opened up all the walls and took it right down to the studs.” The compartmentalized room layout was eliminated, along with obstructive chimneys, to enhance the water views from the front door. Architect Kotchen, with 25 years of experience in island home design, elaborates, “I didn’t want the art to compete w…”
“With the stunning harbor views,” Casademont recounts. “It needed to exude a sense of tranquility and sophistication rather than being loud or ostentatious. I absolutely adore the gallery wall I curated in this space; it showcases pieces by numerous Latin American artists sourced from Sicardi Gallery in Houston, all of which draw inspiration from nature.”
“Andrew truly grasps the essence of Nantucket and contemporary design within this locale,” Casademont adds. “While I deliberated extensively on the furniture and art placements, our aim was to create a beach house atmosphere, not a sterile museum, and Andrew truly captured that vision.”
The outcome is a bright, airy sanctuary that reflects the couple’s passion for art, design, and the island’s natural allure that initially drew them in years ago. “There’s an undeniable feeling of peace and tranquility when you are within these walls,” shares Metz. “The location contributes, but it’s the house itself — a place destined to be cherished by our family for generations to come.”
