Shingle-Style Waterfront Residence in Riverside, Connecticut - A Refined Interpretation of New England Coastal Living

Perched above a serene cove on Long Island Sound, this custom coastal residence in Riverside, Connecticut is a modern interpretation of shingle-style architecture, crafted to embrace its commanding waterfront setting while honoring the timeless traditions of New England architecture. Designed for a family seeking sophisticated living, comfort, and enduring craftsmanship, the home combines classical composition with bespoke detailing, resulting in a retreat that is as functional as it is beautiful.

The home's approach reveals a front façade that radiates balance and refinement. Flanked by projecting gable ends and clad in weathered cedar shingles, the symmetrical elevation features a wide, columned porch that stretches across the central volume. A heavy stone base, nautical blue shutters, and crisply detailed white columns, trim and railings reference the vernacular of historic coastal homes, while leaded glass sidelights and a transomed front entry add quiet refinement to the composition.

As seen in the aerial image, the residence is sited with intention, anchored by mature trees and manicured lawns, its orientation maximizes both privacy and views, creating a rare sense of seclusion within this historic coastal community.

The waterside elevation reveals the full depth of the home’s relationship to its environment. A deep, central porch spans the rear façade, offering shaded outdoor living space with uninterrupted views of the Sound. To one side, a screened porch provides year-round comfort; to the other, a pergola-topped terrace opens to an expansive, round projecting porch designed for entertaining. With its rustic stone outdoor fireplace and angled orientation, this sculptural volume becomes both a focal point and a gathering place, harmonizing architecture and landscape.

Above, the Study of the Master Suite occupies the home’s most coveted perch, a semi-circular retreat wrapped in glass, as shown in the interior image. Coffered ceilings with exposed mahogany beams evoke the character of a yacht interior. From here, the owners enjoy panoramic views of sailboats and shifting tides, a daily rhythm that infuses the home with calm and coastal energy.

The interior architecture reflects a commitment to handcrafted detail and spatial flow. Visitors enter through a wainscoted, beamed-ceiling Entry Hall, where a custom staircase commands attention with three alternating baluster profiles, spiral-fluted newel posts, and a gracefully carved handrail. The craftsmanship here sets a tone of quiet excellence that continues throughout the home.

The Living and Dining Rooms, each with commanding water views, are designed as separate yet interconnected spaces. Their millwork, finishes, and proportions reflect traditional shingle-style home design, yet their open relationship fosters a sense of ease and movement. Together, these spaces provide both formal elegance and informal grace.

The adjacent Kitchen and Breakfast Bay embrace morning light and family rituals, while connecting seamlessly to the Family Room and outdoor Entertaining Porch. This effortless circulation allows the home to adapt fluidly from intimate moments to large gatherings, all enhanced by the visual presence of the water.

On the second level, the architecture pivots toward privacy and retreat. The Primary Suite is expansive and serene, with high ceilings, two fireplaces, and a private Study that elevates the experience of daily living. Four additional bedroom suites are distributed across the rear of the house to provide panoramic views and natural light; each designed with personalized details and cohesion.

A sixth suite, positioned above the garages, includes private outdoor access, making it ideal for extended family, guests, or staff. This spatial hierarchy reflects the home’s larger design ethos: one that balances classic coastal architecture with contemporary functionality.

This luxury waterfront home exemplifies how shingle-style architecture can be both rooted in history and tailored to modern life. It’s a study in proportion, craftsmanship, and coastal vernacular, one that responds with sophistication to its site, its views, and its occupants’ needs. It is a bespoke coastal estate that feels both timeless and intimately personal.

For more information on our Shingle Style Architecture visit https://www.hiltonarchitects.com/blog/tips-for-designing-a-shingle-style-home.

For more information about our Custom New Residential projects visit https://www.hiltonarchitects.com/new-homes, and for more information about our designing a luxury waterfront home visit: https://www.hiltonarchitects.com/blog/the-allure-of-living-on-a-waterfront-property.