Touching the water’s edge, brave owners saved this former general store from regular flooding to create a calming seaside retreat that’s as charming as it is weatherproof. (Bonus: it’s also available for vacation stays – more on that below.)
Set on the bay in Martinsville, Maine, Harbor Cottage was moved to its present location in the 1960s. In the decades to follow, it suffered numerous basement floods during high tides. Fixing that issue was the first order of business for owners Tony and Fiona Hooper. Once the waves were no longer coming inside, they turned their attention to the interiors.
To create an optimal living space from the original structure, the third in our House Tour Series, the owners enlisted architect Sheila Bonnell. Bonnell reconfigured the interiors, which consisted of multiple small rooms, opening the flow and maximizing the harbor views.
While modernizing the store was important, Bonnell also made it a priority to honor the history and integrity of the building by retaining as many original store windows as possible. In addition to the originals, she added others where needed, bringing in natural light and the beauty of the coastal surroundings.
Following the structural re-do, Fiona went to work updating the interior décor. To keep the focus on the harbor beyond, she let simplicity take the lead. Soft textiles in neutral colors pair with natural wood finishes, white-painted shiplap walls, and carefully curated decorative touches.
In the image above, a woodstove in the living room wards off any chills, while French linens made into Roman shades grace the windows without obstructing the view.
Shiplap extended to the kitchen, including the paneled refrigerator, ensures continuity in the space. Durable Vermont soapstone was used for the countertops while open shelving keeps coffee mugs and other items handy.
Upstairs, a much-needed bathroom expansion takes advantage of space under the eaves of the house. More shiplap and natural wood combine for a calming spot to relax and clean up.
Red berries in a stoneware pitcher offer a pop of color in the otherwise-neutral room. A farmhouse-style sink feels right at home atop the pine counter.
To create the master suite, Bonnell combined three cramped rooms on the second floor into one. The result is an airy retreat with gorgeous views of the harbor. Positioning the bed in the middle of the room ensured the right proximity to the windows while providing ample space to move around the furnishings.
Who wouldn’t want to wake up to this view?
Also in the master suite, a desk offers a quiet spot to enjoy the scenery, read, or practice the lost art of letter writing. Next to the desk, a large vintage map serves as artwork, while the bookcase behind the bed holds reading material to suit a variety of interests.
Outside, it doesn’t get more “vacationland” than an open-air shower. Tucked in just behind the porch, you can enjoy harbor views while you rinse off in the great outdoors.
After your shower, head to the deck to soak in the beauty of the harbor. Adirondack chairs invite you to sit down with a cup of coffee and the newspaper, where you can enjoy the sunrise and ocean breezes. It’s also the perfect spot for a glass of wine or your favorite cocktail in the evenings.
Next door, a two-bedroom guest house provides additional space for friends and family. Formerly, a run-down cottage, Fiona and Tony had it renovated, as well, expanding the number of people the property can accommodate.
A twin daybed set amid windows provides incredible views of the harbor beyond, as well as an additional sleeping spot. Part of the living area, the daybed doubles as seating during the day. Fiona maximized storage with drawers under the bed, saving room for a desk and chairs.
Both bedrooms include a full-sized bed and equally dramatic views of the outdoors.
In keeping with the style of the main house, furnishings and decorative elements are kept minimal, allowing the surroundings to be the star of the show.
Finally, a small kitchen provides anyone staying in the guest house with the perfect spot to brew some morning coffee, grab a snack, or prepare a light meal.
Harbor Cottage, in all its shingled glory, offers its owners and guests with an authentic, relaxing Maine experience. To learn more about the property or book a stay, visit Harbor Cottage Maine.
For more cottage tours, visit the Centuries-Old Southport Island Home or tour the Seaside Gem Loaded with Antique Treasures!