Some homes are built for everyday living and others are designed to make life feel a little bigger. The South Harbor Residence by Blaze Makoid Architecture falls into the second category. Set on Sag Harbor in North Haven, New York, it sits on a site that naturally invites you to slow down and look out across the water. The architects leaned into that feeling by creating a layered experience that begins the moment you arrive and continues through every corner of the home. With water views stretching across a saltwater pond, a quiet cove and the harbor beyond, the design was shaped to make the most of the setting while giving a family a place to entertain year round.
A Patio Arrival Framed by Greenery
Upon arriving at the house, guests step onto a patio that doubles as an outdoor dining area. It is surrounded by plantings that soften the architecture and set a relaxed tone from the start. The zigzag approach down the slope brings you to a front door that looks straight through the house to the swimming pool and the harbor beyond.
Living and Dining Divided by Wood and Glass
Inside, the layout opens with the living room and dining room. The two spaces are separated by a wood and glass room divider that lets the light move freely while giving each area its own identity. Materials stay simple and timeless with warm wood, clear glass and soft stone accents.
Indoor and Outdoor Living at the Center
At the heart of the home, floor to ceiling, wall to wall glass panels slide open to create a true indoor and outdoor living environment. On one side of the living room is the front patio and on the other side is the swimming pool. This central zone was designed to open on both sides so the family can shift easily from sunny pool days to quiet evenings in the garden court.
Poolside Moments and a Fireplace Lounge
The swimming pool stretches out toward the water side of the property. At its far end sits a small outdoor lounge with a fireplace, creating a cosy spot for cool nights. Steps lead down to the lawn, where the view spills out over the cove and harbor in layered planes of water.
A Kitchen with Soft Blue Details
Back inside, the kitchen brings in a gentle wash of color with soft blue countertops and a matching backsplash. Wood cabinetry warms the space, while open shelving with integrated lighting keeps it functional and inviting. It is designed for easy entertaining, flowing naturally into the living areas.
A Second Living Room for Family Time
Next to the kitchen is a secondary living room designed for more relaxed moments. Wood, glass and stone are used throughout the home to maintain a sense of calm that works across all seasons.
A Contemporary TV Room with Built Ins
In the family TV room, light colored furnishings keep things contemporary, while a built in floor to ceiling shelf lined with wood brings texture and warmth to the space.
A Hallway Turned Gallery
A long hallway connects the bedrooms and displays the homeowners art collection. The changing light throughout the day adds a soft sense of movement to the pieces.
Bedrooms Filled with Light and Views
In one of the bedrooms, large windows flood the room with daylight and provide sweeping views of the harbor and cove. It is a simple, calming space that feels connected to the water.
A Playful Children’s Room
In one of the children’s bedrooms, a colorful patterned wall has been created behind the bed, adding personality to the serene palette seen in the rest of the home.
Bathrooms Designed for Calm, Light and Comfort
The bathroom mixes grey tiles with wood cabinetry that includes an open shelf for storing towels. Large windows invite in plenty of light and a door leads out to a small private balcony.
The second bathroom is bright and open, filled with natural light from its generous windows. A door leads out to a small balcony that brings in fresh air and a quiet outdoor moment, making the space feel calm and refreshing.
The South Harbor Residence was shaped by water, light and the rhythm of family life. With spaces that open fully to the outdoors and a layout designed for everything from pool days to dinner parties, it brings together comfort, clarity and a sense of place. Every room feels connected to the landscape, proving that good design does not need to compete with nature when it can work alongside it.