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Captain’s Watch

Oriental, North Carolina

TO COMMEMORATE ITS 10TH ANNIVERSARY, Coastal Living magazine turned to Historical Concepts to design a present-day interpretation of the stately historic homes that dot the Eastern Seaboard. Located at River Dunes, a maritime-inspired community on North Carolina’s Inner Banks, Captain’s Watch rises over Grace Harbor and the yachts and sailboats that flock to its protected inland marina. The design team studied historic fishing villages and old seaports to set the foundation for the architectural style, in their mind’s eye envisioning a home that may have once belonged to a venerable sea captain. Topped by a crow’s nest, the three-story residence epitomizes nineteenth century coastal design, while sustainable materials, updated finishes, and an open floor plan firmly root it in the twenty-first century.

FROM THE PICKET FENCE TO THE CROW’S NEST, Captain’s Watch captures the nostalgia of seaside architecture.
On the harbor façade, dual porches supported by simple square columns greet visitors arriving by land or sea.

ARCHITECTURAL DETAIL CONTINUES INSIDE, where wood walls, custom millwork, and cabinetry are painted in a sailcloth white. Furnishings, art, and accents in a soothing palette recall the ocean, wetlands, and other coastal vegetation.

THE KITCHEN’S WATERY HUES speak of the coastal vernacular. Through a transom-topped opening sits the adjacent breakfast room. Wrapped in glass and topped with a coffered ceiling, the room captures abundant natural light and boasts panoramic views of Grace Harbor.

IN CONTRAST TO THE QUIET SOPHISTICATION BELOW, the third level is vibrant and youthful. In the sitting room and bunkroom, nautical decor and details abound. At the center of the playful painted floor is a traditional compass rose,
anchoring a spiral stair that ascends to the crow’s nest above.