Size doesn’t matter when it comes to quality of design. For this petite Cape-style home along the Eagle River in Ipswich, Massachusetts, we focused on creating a warm, inviting space designed for family living. Radiating from the kitchen – the “heart” of the home – we created connections to all the other spaces in the home: eating areas, living areas, the mudroom and entries, even the upstairs. Details like the highly functional yet utterly charming under-the-stairs drawers and cupboards make this house extra special while the open floor plan gives it a big house feel without sacrificing coziness. In 2018, the home was updated with interior trim details, including new shaker paneling on the staircase and custom newel post, a TV built-in with shelves and drawers and beadboard back, and a half wall bookshelf with columns to replace the wall dividing the living room from dining room. The client also wanted a gas fireplace to enjoy during the winter, but didn't want to lose their beautiful marsh views. We designed the fireplace to go below the window, vented out the rear, with pebbled tile surround and benches flanking either side for storage.