Showpiece Contemporary on Historic Cape Ann

Cape Ann on the Massachusetts Bay was founded in 1623 as the fourth attempt at English colonization in New England. It was originally named Cape Tragabigzanda by Captain John Smith - of Pocahontas fame - after a Turkish woman said to have rescued the adventurer from an Ottoman slave market, but was changed by King Charles I to honor his mother, Anne of Denmark. The site of Massachusetts' first English government, Cape Ann initially developed as a center for granite production, creating the paving stones used from the streets of New York to San Francisco. By the 19th century, it had become a haven for artists, attracting Impressionists and landscape painters. To this day, the region supports numerous working artists, galleries, and a notable art museum. In modern times, its beautiful beaches and unspoiled nature attract tourists looking for peace and relaxation. 

The opportunity to own a showpiece home in the heart of Cape Ann’s coveted beach community presents itself with the listing of a Marcus Gleysteen-designed home for $8.2 million. The home, with over 5,200 square feet of living space, is perched on a hilltop 150 feet above sea level for lovely ocean views. The contemporary design evokes the modern style, with walls of glass, stunning geometric forms, unique stone and wood features, and a seamless integration into the forested landscape. Sleek design choices by Lena Fransioli of Zoe Design have fashioned a home with character and class. 

The home’s facade immediately commands attention, with gentle curves and a captivating orange-and-grey color scheme. The striking kitchen features blue tile and a bar that retains the natural contours of the tree trunk from which it was created. Unique columns and a fireplace with natural stone accents anchor the living room, while two-story, floor-to-ceiling windows offer sweeping vistas. A generous open floor plan connects the living and dining areas. Upstairs, find the primary suite and guest bedrooms, connected by an airy walkway overlooking the living room. Deep soaking tubs offer ultimate relaxation. Multiple decks provide space for lounging, entertaining, and enjoying the epic property. Other amenities include an office and a glass-walled garage. 

The massive 12.8-acre lot abuts the Hooper Trask conservation area, offering access to over 2,000 acres of protected conservation land, without ever crossing a road. Located within the small town of Manchester-by-the-Sea, the home is within walking distance to White Beach and Black Beach. It also has easy access to the famous Singing Beach (so named because the sand squeaks when walked on), numerous hiking trails, boating adventures, and outdoor activities of all kinds. Cape Ann’s other charming towns, including Gloucester, Essex, and Rockport, are just a short jaunt, while the bustling metropolis of Boston is only an hour’s drive away.

The listing is held by George Sarkis and Megan Francese of the Sarkis Team at Douglas Elliman. 

Photo credit Surette Media Group.

Source: www.elliman.com