Harwich Port Residence

Harwich Port Residence, Harwich Port, MA

The Cape Cod Hemp House in Harwich Port, Massachusetts, redefines sustainable living with its net-zero, all-electric design. This oceanfront residence is the first in the U.S. to utilize hempcrete construction, merging modern and traditional techniques to minimize energy use and environmental impact.

The design developed by the Landscape Architect, elegantly balances sustainability with understated elegance seamlessly blending with the character of the building, while complying with local Conservation Commission guidelines. Key features include salvaged weathered granite slabs from bridge demolitions, used for pool and spa coping and wall veneers. Reclaimed antique granite curbing enhances the stairs, aprons, and bocce court. Black Locust (Robinia pseudo acacia), a durable, rot-resistant wood, is employed for decks and boardwalks, providing a sustainable alternative to tropical hardwoods. This material also forms permeable pavers and bocce court seat walls, combined with reclaimed granite.

More than 90% of the plantings are native, drought-tolerant species, with salt-tolerant flora including Eastern Red Cedar, Bayberry and Beach Grass. Northern areas feature pollinator-friendly perennials including Butterfly Weed, Bee Balm and Baptisia. The property lines are adorned with native trees and shrubs comprised of Black Cherry, Serviceberry, Pines and viburnums.

A sculptural firepit of chiseled granite is one of the property’s focal points, reflecting the clients’ artistic sensibility.