The timeless charm of Nantucket-style architecture resonated with this client, who wanted to capture the relaxed elegance and coastal character often found in homes along the New England shoreline while adapting those elements to a Midwestern setting. Key architectural features include shake shingle siding, generous use of natural stone, complex rooflines, and asymmetrical forms that give the home a sense of history and individuality. Bay windows and turret-like details further enhance the architectural interest, creating depth and visual movement throughout the exterior.

Inside, the design reflects the classic Nantucket balance of old and new. A palette drawn from the sea—soft whites, layered blues, and natural wood tones—creates a calm, welcoming atmosphere. Interiors are intentionally casual yet refined, with spaces that feel comfortable, inviting, and stylish. Nautical influences appear subtly through lighting, shapes, and materials, reinforcing the coastal inspiration without feeling overly thematic.

The project presented several challenges typical of infill construction. Strict city guidelines regarding setbacks, easements, building height, and allowable square footage required careful planning to ensure the home fit within the limited footprint. Another priority was maximizing both outdoor entertaining space and views of nearby Leawood Lake.

The design team addressed these constraints by tailoring the home precisely to the permitted building envelope. Creative planning allowed fireplaces and a polygonal hot tub to be positioned exactly along the utility easement line. Outdoor living became a focal point, highlighted by a two-story deck with Indiana limestone flooring, an outdoor kitchen, Ipe wood accents, and expansive multi-slide doors that create a seamless indoor-outdoor connection.

Resources

Appliances and Plumbing Fixtures: Ferguson Home  Countertops: Central Surfaces  Flooring: Express Hardwood Floors; KC Wholesale Carpet
Hardware: Locks & Pulls  Masonry: LSH Masonry; Higgins Stone; Lareau Landscape; Sturgis Stone  Low Voltage and Theater: Elevated Electronics  Cabinets: Built to Fit  Millwork: KC Millwork  Trim Carpentry: Borger Construction  Wine Cellar: Genuwine  Heated Driveway: Warmzone  Elevator: KC Lift and Elevator 

Architect

Carlson-Duncan Architects and Interior Design

Designer

Kathy Ann Abell Interiors

Contractor

Wulff Fine Custom Homes

Landscaper

Lareau Landscape

Photographer

Aaron Leimkeuhler

Floor plans and drawings

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