Before & After: In Maine, a Seaside Midcentury Split-Level Gets a Moody Makeover

Q: What was the condition of the house before the remodel?

Before the remodel, the house was in poor condition with outdated interiors and structural issues.

Q: Who was responsible for the remodel?

The remodel was done by Abigail Shea, an experienced interior designer, in collaboration with a team of contractors and architects.

Q: What were the major changes made to the house?

The major changes made to the house include opening up the floor plan, adding a new kitchen, bathrooms, and bedrooms, as well as updating the exterior facade.

Q: Were there any challenges faced during the remodel?

Yes, there were challenges such as dealing with structural issues, working within a limited budget, and coordinating various contractors and suppliers.

Q: What is the design style of the remodeled house?

The design style of the remodeled house is a combination of modern and traditional elements, with a focus on natural materials and a neutral color palette.

Q: What was the inspiration behind the design?

The design was inspired by the natural beauty of the surroundings in Maine, as well as the desire to create a comfortable and inviting space for family and friends.

Q: Are there any unique features in the remodeled house?

Yes, there are several unique features, such as a custom-built fireplace, a spacious outdoor deck, and large windows to maximize natural light and scenic views.

Q: Has the remodel increased the value of the house?

While the specific increase in value is not mentioned in the article, a well-executed remodel generally has the potential to increase the value of a property.

Q: Can I visit the Abigail Shea House?

As the Abigail Shea House is a private residence, it is not open for public visits. However, you can view the before and after photos in the article.

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Things aren’t always black and white. Unless, of course, you’re standing inside a home designed by Abigail Shea, founder of Studio Eastman. Tempered with texture, Abigail’s trademark neutral interiors blend California cool with East Coast ingenuity, a combo that makes monochrome feel anything but narrow-minded.

Take Abigail’s latest project with architect Kevin Browne, for example. Nestled into the craggy, coastal crook of Rockport, Maine, what was once a cavernous and choppy mid-century home is now a (mostly) airy retreat. “The layout left some really tight spaces with tiny windows,” Abigail says. “Instead of trying to force those areas to comply with the rest of the home’s bright palette, I chose to embrace the darkness.” Washes of earthy, near-black hues—like muted green and charcoal blue—imbue areas like the back portion of the kitchen with tension and intrigue.

The result, as Abigail puts it, is “a fresh family home that, although mid-century inspired, isn’t too on the nose.”

Let’s take a look.

Photography by Erin Little.