Crosswater is a new year-round coastal home on Little Neck, built within the exact footprint of the seasonal cottage that preceded it. With the house only inches from the road and unable to move farther into the site, the design works vertically. Excavation created a split-level basement, while raising the house seven feet above grade opened broad views across the Ipswich River toward Crane Beach.
A window-lined, open first floor keeps the water present throughout the main living spaces. Custom cabinetry and millwork bring character to the interior, including three-quarter-height wainscoting in the den and warm walnut at the fireplace mantel and wet bar. Along the stair, alternating tapered balusters are turned in opposite directions, creating a subtle pattern within a familiar architectural detail.
Outside, varied shingle coursing and rounded petal details give texture to the façade, while a balcony tucked into the roofline provides a sheltered place to take in the view. Designed by architect Art Dioli as his own home, Crosswater turns a tightly constrained site into a carefully detailed place for year-round life by the water.
