2026 Architectural Design (Modern) Winner: Cove House
This modern residence transforms a constrained waterfront site into a cohesive family compound that harmonizes architecture, landscape and legacy. The design establishes a strong dialogue between a new residence and an existing cottage, connected through a carefully positioned courtyard that guides circulation and frames entry into the home’s central kitchen. Inspired by the craftsmanship of classic wooden boats, the material palette — local granite, Douglas fir, and precision metalwork — reflects both durability and refinement. The entry sequence unfolds dramatically, moving through a granite-lined passage into a luminous living space framed by expansive glazing. A two-story steel moment frame enables sweeping lake views while maintaining structural clarity. Light is carefully orchestrated throughout, from skylit bathrooms to a sculptural staircase that distributes daylight across levels. Crafted with input from local artisans, the home balances technical precision with tactile richness, creating a modern lakeside retreat that is both sophisticated and deeply connected to its surroundings.
What the judges said: Form, space, materials, furnishings and landscape masterfully coalesce into a unified whole.
Marcus Gleysteen
Marcus Gleysteen Architects in Lincoln, Mass.
617-542-6060
mgaarchitects.com
