In the introduction to the second volume of ‘Maine,’ Kathleen Hackett eloquently describes the book’s mission: to showcase the state’s quirky architectural history and demonstrate that it’s possible, even essential, to rescue these unique structures. Maine’s historic hamlets, nestled along the coast and further inland, are defined by their signature building style—typically white clapboard or shingle cottages. While the state boasts gorgeous beachfront mansions, these recent architectural builds don’t truly capture the essence of Maine. To find that, one must look to the more humble dwellings, homes of fishermen, artists, and locals who embody the state’s understated, no-frills approach to the good life.
This second volume delves into 30 homes across Maine, offering a diverse range of architectural styles and stories. One such home, The Falls at Crockett Cove, was designed by self-taught architect Emily Muir, who created over 45 homes in the area. This mid-century build, seemingly dwarfed by the surrounding pines, sits on a piece of granite that juts out over the water, allowing its inhabitants to seamlessly connect with nature. “‘It had me at the full glass front. But the fact that it sits on a huge piece of granite that hangs out over the water? You can slip into nature without disturbing it,” says Carolyn Evans, the current steward of the home, along with her husband, Ray.
Then there are properties like the 1790-built Cape-style home that had fallen into disrepair before being lovingly restored by two artists, Dan Anselmi and Marc Leavitt. They sought not to modernize the space but to honor its original character and “great bones.” “There was no heating system, no family room, no great room, no room for a refrigerator in the kitchen, an ailing roof, and a vertigo-inducing staircase,” writes Hackett. “Anselmi and Leavitt looked straight past all of it, mesmerized by what was there. For these two artists, whose professional lives left little time to build their practices and whose Back Bay one-bedroom apartment offered no space in which to do it, it was love at first sight.”
What’s more quintessentially Maine than a lighthouse? The final property featured in the book belongs to Jamie Wyeth, an artist hailing from a long line of painters inspired by their surroundings. His cozy lighthouse is filled with antiques, including glass oil lanterns and dioramas of schooners. “I could live four lifetimes and not scratch the surface of what this place offers up to me every single day,” says Wyeth. “The lighthouse itself is a symbol and so singular. It’s like a person.” One that expands his perspective every day. “There is something about the view from the top of the lighthouse, seeing the perimeter of the world, that is just thrilling,” says Wyeth.
Explore the remaining properties in ‘Maine’ now and discover the captivating stories behind these unique homes.
