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Everything Old is New Again - A Monmouth Beach Classic Shore Colonial Reinvented
05/02/2008 - By Michael Berman
The Shaw home is a classic shore colonial
Danielle and Kenny Shaw discovered Monmouth Beach while taking a long bike ride together when they were still dating. Kenny grew up in Ocean Township, and Danielle in Middletown. They share a love of the outdoors and both enjoy being active.
Danielle and Kenny Shaw discovered Monmouth Beach while taking a long bike ride together when they were still dating. Kenny grew up in Ocean Township, and Danielle in Middletown. They share a love of the outdoors and both enjoy being active. The couple was drawn to Monmouth Beach by the sun, the sand, and, of course, the water. Seven years of marriage and three children later, they have finally settled into their dream home near the water.
Kenny, owner of K. Shaw Construction, got involved in building homes while still in school. He worked at a number of job sites for construction companies in the Monmouth County shore area to learn his trade, picking up many skills, and learning what it takes to be successful in the home construction industry. His experiences working for others served him well, as he now heads up his own custom-home construction company.
When they were looking for a place to build their new family home near the water, Danielle and Kenny found a beautiful lot in Monmouth Beach that called out to them. Although the original plan was to renovate the existing structure, they soon realized that it would be more of a challenge than originally expected; the project, therefore, evolved into a new structure that required expanding the footprint of their home slightly to the side to accommodate the new design. James Monteforte of Neptune designed the new home, combining elements of a classic shore colonial with the needs of modern living. The result was a home with timeless shore appeal.
The Shaw family lived in a rental during the 5-month building process. The results of their labor have exceeded their expectations, and they are fully enjoying the 5,400-square-foot shore colonial house that is their new family home.
The Shaw home is a classic shore colonial, from the shingle-style exterior to the multiple decks that allow them to take full advantage of the breathtaking views of the Shrewsbury River, the Atlantic, and beyond. Shore living often limits the amount of land available for building; the Shaws’ architectural plan exhibits a classic vertical growth plan to include a very livable third story.
The centerpiece of this beautifully designed, exceptionally built home is the custom circular oak staircase. The staircase almost became a casualty of budgetary concerns, but made it back in at the last minute, much to the delight of all concerned. It has now become the architectural focal point for all to marvel at upon entering the front door.
The dining room’s center-spoke-beamed ceiling is dramatic, giving the rectangular room a completely unique feel. Kenny commented, with a knowing sigh, that this ceiling detail posed many challenges, but was well worth the effort it took to fabricate. Danielle handled much of the interior design choices, focusing on comfort and a “surf-and-sand” feel that doesn’t scream “seashore design.”
Unique architectural elements abound in this well-conceived home. The 9-foot ceilings on the first floor add a feeling of grandeur without overpowering the warmth and overall scale of the living spaces within. The warm color choices, made by Danielle, help to create a welcoming and sunny feeling to the interior. The classic plantation shutter window treatments, by Beth Rooney of Monmouth Beach Plantation Shutters, add architectural and design interest, and are the perfect choice for regulating the amount of sea breezes and sun rays allowed through the home.
The kitchen is a perfect gathering place for the Shaws’ three growing children, and the space is designed with function in mind. The travertine marble floor stays warm in the winter and cool in the summer, and includes a radiant heating
system underneath. A Themador stove top and griddle
combination, plus a two-drawer dishwasher and double wall oven, can accommodate cooking for large parties as well as intimate family meals.
Though originally planned as a classic butler pantry, the wine room has been transformed into a temperature-controlled space with mahogany counters that currently holds 144 bottles of the Shaws’ favorite select wines.
The master bedroom features beautiful views of the Shrewsbury River and a two-sided fireplace, with ample room for a writing desk. French doors lead to private deck space just outside this intimate living area.
The master bath reflects Kenny’s penchant for the circular, as the flow is anything but typical. The soaking tub was framed out by custom cabinetry and was created in place by Kenny and crew. The walk-in shower’s multiple heads offer the very best water experience short of a quick dip in the Atlantic.
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