Bayside Retreat
Long Beach Island, NJ
A coastal home with expansive bay views lacked a clear relationship to its surroundings, limiting the potential of its setting. The existing structure provided ample space but required reorganization to improve orientation, livability, and connection to the landscape. O Z Collaborative approached the renovation through a subtractive strategy, removing portions of the existing structure to clarify form and create new outdoor space. By pulling back the second floor, a large deck was introduced, extending living areas toward the water. The existing gambrel roof was simplified to establish a more cohesive architectural profile.
The upper level was reconfigured as the primary living floor, with shared spaces and the main suite oriented toward the view. A cathedral ceiling, clerestory windows, and integrated lighting enhance natural light and spatial volume, while direct access to the deck strengthens the connection between interior and exterior. Material and system selections address the coastal environment. Hurricane-rated windows, durable siding, and a dedicated dehumidification system improve resilience and comfort. The renovation transforms the house into a cohesive living environment that responds to its site and maximizes its connection to the bay.
Photographed by Matt Wargo