Nestled atop a hill on Fishers Island, the “Pointer Perch” is a striking tower house designed by Haver Skolnick Architects. This unique home captures breathtaking panoramic ocean views while blending seamlessly with its rustic surroundings. From its winding drive through trees and boulders to its carefully designed architectural elements, every feature of this house exudes elegance and harmony with nature.
A Design Inspired by Island History
The design of Pointer Perch draws inspiration from the island’s shingled cottages from the early 20th century, blending traditional charm with crisp, modern details. As you approach the house, you’ll notice the tower rising above a meadow of native grasses, which are carefully curated to maintain the site’s natural beauty. Mowed pathways weave through the landscape, creating a serene atmosphere.
Thoughtful Outdoor Features
The exterior of the home is just as impressive as its design. A large terrace features jumbo bluestone pavers, perfectly scaled to match the site’s natural boulders. Surrounding the house, undulating beds of beach stones anchor boulders, creating an organic, yet meticulously crafted look. One of the most standout features is the copper outdoor shower, which offers sweeping ocean views, providing a unique and relaxing experience.
On the lower level, the design incorporates everything needed for easy access to the beach and garden, ensuring practicality is combined with style.
A Crisp, Inviting Interior
The interior of the house offers a clean, sophisticated design. The crisp white walls contrast beautifully with rift and quarter sawn oak floors, while hand-hewn beams add a touch of rustic elegance. A massive antique ebonized poster bed serves as the centerpiece of the bedroom, creating a calming retreat. The Italian daybed in the room offers a perfect vantage point to enjoy the ocean views.
Visitors are invited to ascend to the Living Room via a custom bronze railing, which leads to the heart of the house. The Living Room, located at the top of the tower, boasts sweeping water views and is surrounded by walls and ceilings clad in shiplapped boards, enhancing the room’s open, airy feel.
A Beautiful Blend of Antique and Contemporary
Throughout the house, antique furnishings are thoughtfully paired with contemporary abstract art, striking the perfect balance between old and new. In the Kitchen, a vintage bronze lantern hangs from the pyramidal ceiling, while the countertops feature highly figured Calacatta marble, adding a touch of luxury. Oversized copper lanterns accentuate the rugged stone foundation, casting a warm glow on the home’s exterior as the sun sets.
A Glowing Beacon at Night
As evening falls, the tower becomes a glowing beacon on the hill, highlighting the home’s striking design. The combination of the rugged stone foundation, copper details, and carefully planned landscape design creates a harmonious, picturesque setting that’s just as captivating at night as it is during the day.
A Home that Fuses Nature with Architecture
The Pointer Perch is a stunning example of thoughtful architectural and landscape design. Its simple, classical organization, combined with its distinctive features and panoramic ocean views, creates a home that is as practical as it is beautiful. Whether you’re drawn to the rich history of the island’s architecture or simply appreciate stunning design, this tower house offers an unparalleled living experience.
Photography: Robert Benson Photography
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