Capitol Island

An island just three-quarters of a mile long and 700 feet at its widest point, Capitol Island is a place where everyone-knows-everyone, and the main dirt road of 15 mph is busier with local foot traffic than cars. By and large, the properties on Capitol Island are owned by the original families of the 1870s—translating to one of Maine’s most intact historic summer communities.

This property is historically rich, with the owner’s children being the 5th generation to have come to the island during their summer months. The homeowner recalls his own childhood excitement, “The last day of school marked when mom would load us up in the car and we would just go!” The clients knew early on they needed to reconfigure to accommodate their four children, and it was evident the old structure would not support such growth.

As longtime island residents, our clients’ primary goal was that the new cottage embody the sense of community on the island and honor the charming and traditional elements found in so many of the old island cottages. Signature accents known throughout Capitol Island are part of the design, such as the cross-gabled roof, two over two windows, and the mixture of shingle, clapboard, and board-and-batten siding.

Design twists and quirky details are integrated in a way that is both fun and discrete. Carved into the hillside, the back of the structure nests into the rising ledge. A glass bridge connects to a bedroom known as the “tree house”. The bridge allows one to float between spaces, while bringing the outside environment in. With this clever connection to the upper ledge, the treehouse captures water views to the opposite side of the island.

In tandem with the many innovative architectural details, Phillip Miller, interior designer of America Dural Inc., curated the home’s interior design, from the color palette to the thoughtful integration of the client’s taste. This Maine cottage merges with antique and modern touches in a zesty, harmonious style.