A Spectacular Weekend Getaway on the Mystic River
After supplying the lumber to build the condominium complex, Steamboat Wharf, in 1979, Nort Wheeler and the Mystic River Building Company was recently hired to completely renovate a three story, 2,100 square foot Steamboat Wharf condo into a spectacular waterfront getaway.
We gutted the interior of the home, which is located with boat dockage on the Mystic River, and Chistopher Arelt of Nautilus Architects used striking architectural details to create a nautical theme. We widened the narrow hallways with the inventive use of recessed wainscoting wall niches, and 5 inch wide white oak floors were pickled for a stunning maritime look.
Universal Design Problem Solved
Our clients required a fully accessible home within the three story layout. This created a major challenge, because the chimney was located in the only space that a personal elevator could be installed. We solved the puzzle with a Savaria Eclipse machine roomless elevator, which easily accommodates multiple passengers safely up and down all three levels on a rail system enclosed in the lift tower, so no machine room is needed.
Special Living Spaces
We raised the lower level sunken living room to prevent flooding, and the new man cave serves as an ideal retreat during Red Sox season, while providing extra sleeping space for visiting college students.
The second floor sleeping quarters features two bedrooms with separate baths. A fabulous master bedroom with 10’ coffered ceiling opens to a sun deck, where the home owners can spend many hours relaxing and watching the activity on the river.
The upper level designer kitchen is equipped with striking granite countertops, a Kohler farmer’s sink and a dining area with built in booth for six.
A discrete ramp provides access to the upper living room which overlooks the river, park and Bascule bridge. A library ladder in the living room accesses a cozy loft with wainscot cathedral ceiling that provides plenty of head room for more visiting college students.
The home’s charming covered porch offers the perfect spot to watch and judge Mystic’s Antique Wooden Boat Parade and many other downtown happenings.
Real Energy Savings and Comfort
Since every Mystic River home is an E-Save Home, we insulated the entire condominium with Icynene spray foam insulation for highest energy-efficiency. The home is heated and cooled with space saving, ductless Mitsubishi Hyperheat Mini Splits, which offer eco-friendly technology, allergen filtration, and whisper-quiet comfort.
This past July was the hottest month recorded in Connecticut in 110 years, and the total electric bill with air conditioning was $149. That included $60 in usage for the homeowner’s 34 ft Swift Trawler power boat parked at the dock. Now that is real E-Savings!
Most important of all – our clients are thrilled with their spectacular weekend getaway because it maximizes their comfort, enjoyment and those breathtaking views of the Mystic River!