Architect & Designer Visit: Cary Tamarkin and Suzanne Shaker in Shelter Island - Remodelista
When NYC-based architect Cary Tamarkin and his family bought an unheated 1960s shack on Shelter Island as a weekend retreat, they lived in the existing structure for three years before rebuilding. According to interior designer and Suzanne Shaker, a neighbor and frequent collaborator of Tamarkin’s, “the family learned to understand the rhythms of the light, water, and sand intimately; more importantly, they discovered how they wanted to live within those rhythms.” The living spaces and the family bedrooms are separated by a covered breezeway. Shaker outfitted the relaxed living spaces with casual midcentury pieces such as the Butterfly Chair from Circa 50 and Noguchi Akari Pendants from the Noguchi Museum. The dominant wooden beams extend from interior to exterior, establishing the rhythm of the house. Photo by William Abranowicz for House Beautiful. Practical hooks make for easy and decorative storage. A custom platform sofa is positioned to capture the expansive sea views. The kitchen features utilitarian plywood cabinetry. A horizontal row of windows captures views of the sky, the water, and the sand. The movement of sunlight marks the progression of time; turning the house into a sundial on a summer’s day. Custom teak dining tables and benches by George Smith Woodworking in Tivoli, New York (845-757-5921). The teak Outdoor Lounge Furniture is from Henry Hall in San Francisco. The master bath shower is covered with Black 3/4-Inch Unglazed Porcelain Tiles by Nemo Tiles. The simple master bedroom features white-painted wood-paneled walls. Tamarkin’s favorite spot is the open-air shower just outside his bedroom. Photos by Bart Michiels (except photo 6 by William Abranowicz for House Beautiful). In the evenings, the house emits a warm, lantern like glow.