Not Everything that is New is Shiny

The latest issue of Azure Magazine has amongst its features an examination of this beach house. It isn't all that grandiose, but it sure beats the pants off of any beach cabin I've ever been at.
Well, let me qualify that. It is much more, oh what's the word I am looking for...expensive...snooty...elaborate in a minimalist sort of way. I guess what I am trying to say is that, while I appreciate the modern aesthetic it portrays, and how the designer has made effort into making it fit into its surroundings, I think the layout falls short of the mark.

The cedar slatting is very nice, and an excellent material choice for longevity. The building's long, low profile fits well with the wooded plain it is situated in, and the heavy use of large windows blurs the boundary between nature and the interior space. They've even forgone the use of window treatments in the bedrooms, due to the secluded area where it has been built.

But what I don't like is the floor plan itself. For starters, all three bedrooms have their own 3-piece private bath. This is in addition to the powder room in the more public area. A bit excessive, perhaps?
Next, they've designed a "fire nook." Well, it is situated in a corridor that has an exterior entrance at either end, and the only place where you can actually see or enjoy the fire is by sitting in the nook across the corridor from the fireplace. So, there stands a good chance someone will have to walk in front of you while you sit, not to mention the inevitable drafts you'll feel every time a door is opened.
The living/dining area is huge and bare, which is fine it that's what you are into. But for me, when I escape to my cottage, I don't want to sit in a minimalist room. I want a nice, cozy area....where I can see the frickin' fire that I just built.

Anyway, that's my rant. I could go one, but I've got homework to do.

signed,

wade w "dubya"