The Casa del Vino
From second home to Shore home.
Building something more.
After their property survived Hurricane Sandy, these homeowners held onto it knowing they eventually wanted to turn it into a primary home. Over a decade later, they decided it was time to make it happen.
Local knowledge: Crucial.
Elevation: Essential.
The property is in a flood zone, which meant building up and navigating a height variance through the planning board, followed by state land use approvals. It's a layered process that takes time. CMM led the effort, drawing on years of experience building in Shore towns.
The foundation sits on pilings and a grade beam with Superior Walls, a precast concrete system that adds insulation and long-term resilience. For a family that had seen the effects of Sandy first-hand, it was the only way to build.
Room for everyone.
Architect Michael Melillo of Melillo Architecture designed a versatile layout. Each kid's bedroom has its own en-suite bathroom. The primary suite is stunning. An elevator serves visiting parents, and two laundry rooms keep everything convenient.
A bunk room on the top floor fits a queen below and a full above, with its own full bathroom. The family loves to host and has the space for guests to stay comfortably.
Wall of wine.
The family had a vision for the first floor: a full feature wall dedicated to his wine collection. He came in with an inspiration photo. CMM worked with Joseph & Curtis Custom Wine Cellars to develop a walnut racking system behind glass, with integrated temperature control built in. It's the first thing you notice when you walk in.
A space that changes with the seasons.
The outdoor living space is designed with flexibility in mind. A Dutch door opens to an elevated deck with an outdoor kitchen. Custom fiberglass panels let the space open fully in summer or close off in winter. A double-sided with indoor/outdoor fireplace with a TV mounted above keeps it usable year-round.
The patio beyond expands to 18 feet in summer and pulls back to 8 in the colder months utilizing the panels, a seasonally appropriate juxtaposition of breezy and cozy.
