The focus from the outset was for “Backfin Point” to be a true family compound. The orders were to create a place for “play”, a place that could be beaten up a bit, a place opened up for communication and entertaining. And it all started with the master planning of the main house, garage/guest quarters, and pool/pool house and how they connect and reconnect with the environment.

When it was time to consider the house’s design, the couple rejected the region’s typical brick vernacular and reached, instead, for a more casual shingle-style building reminiscent of Nantucket . “We wanted to create an instant getaway feel,” says Christine Martinelli. Researching their favorite houses on the Massachusetts island, they discovered homes by architect Lyman Perry.

For the interiors, the couple signed on designer Kathleen Jamieson of Mock Fox Interiors, Inc., in Haverford, Pennsylvania. Doug Croker and Project Manager, Jeff Lee, rounded out the design team.

As hands-on clients, the Martinellis compiled lists of must-have features. “They conveyed the need to create a place for family play,” the architect, Jeff Spoelker, says. The design team incorporated the family’s wishes into the plans. Water views permeate every space, an eat-in kitchen and family room sustain gatherings, and multiple fireplaces and screened porches provide outdoor dining and entertainment spots.

The family loves to point out favorite architectural details, such as the custom breakfast table with a sliding top to allow easy access to the banquette, and the lofts above the children’s rooms. “The architect and Doug came up with the novel idea of creating these lofts, but the fact that they are so high made us worry that someone would fall overboard,” says Christine. To allay her fears, they covered the openings with sailcloth and secured it with grommets. “It not only looked nautical, but also became totally safe,” she says.

Today, the family gravitates to their dream house for off-season weekends and long stretches in the summer. “My kids are even beginning to recognize beauty in the nature that surrounds us,” Christine says. “One of them said recently, ‘Look, the ospreys are in the nest!’ That’s what it’s all about.”