The Wicked Yard

From its uppermost reaches in Maine down to Connecticut’s southern shores, New England’s coastline features a topography ranging from rugged cliff faces, rocky shorelines and sandy beaches. While varied, the length of the northeast seaboard shares one common variable: the occasional wrath of Mother Nature. 

Year after year, the coastline takes batterings from seasonal hurricanes and nor’easters — not to mention winter’s damaging cold temperatures and winds — all while being pounded by the waves of the salty Atlantic Ocean. It stands to reason that anything built along the coast calls for only the most durable building materials to weather New England’s seasonal swings and ocean tides. 

For many, granite is the natural choice for projects that must contend with the harsh ocean elements and withstand the constant freeze-thaw cycle.

From elegant seaside estates to charming beach bungalows, coastal homes celebrate the natural beauty of their surroundings. Drawing inspiration from rocky coastlines, fresh ocean air, and the rich blues and grays of the water, these captivating homes can be designed to reflect the very best of the landscape around them.

Coastal homeowners know that durability is just as important as appearance when it comes to choosing materials for exterior design. These homes are typically exposed to much harsher conditions than their neighbors inland, requiring stronger and longer-lasting materials, including granite and natural stone from Swenson Granite Works.

Located just a couple miles off the southeastern coast of Connecticut lies Fishers Island, New York — a remote island with one operating ferry. With such rich history and natural beauty, it's no wonder summer resident Ralph Carbone decided to renovate his oceanfront property with granite and bluestone from Swenson Granite Works. Not only do these materials add coastal charm to the home, they enhance it with their durability and weather resistance.