Project: Black Rock Beach House
Architecture: Ruhl Jahnes
Architectural Team: William T. Ruhl, Sandra A. Jahnes, Nerijus Petrokas, Jide Olanrewaju
Structural Engineer: RSE Associates, Inc.
General Contractor: The Holland Companies
Landscape: Skyline Landscapes
Location: Cohasset, Massachusetts, United States
Area: 2500 ft2
Year: 2019
Photo Credits: Nat Rea
The Black Rock Beach House combines mid-century modern design with carefully considered updates, creating a space deeply connected to its ocean and pond views. Situated on a dramatic coastal lot, this 2,500-square-foot home was thoughtfully reimagined by Ruhl Jahnes to meet its owners’ vision for a warm, functional retreat perfect for entertaining and everyday living.
A Design Rooted in the Landscape
The original mid-century layout, which the clients loved, was preserved but enhanced to better capture the surrounding beauty. An eight-foot window now frames sweeping ocean views, while a cantilevered glass cube extends the living space, creating a sense of openness and connection to the outdoors. These additions bring light and movement into the home without overwhelming its modest proportions.
To reflect the owners’ love of hosting, the design includes a custom bar with a built-in turntable cubby, adding a lively focal point to the entertaining areas. These subtle yet impactful changes honor the home’s mid-century roots while adapting it to modern needs.
Spaces for Living and Gathering
The home’s layout encourages both connection and relaxation. The open commons area flows into an expandable dining space, providing flexibility for small family meals or larger gatherings. Multiple balconies extend the living space outdoors, offering fresh air and sweeping views.
A rooftop living room with a gas fire-pit invites year-round use, making it a perfect spot to take in sunsets or listen to the ocean’s rhythm. Inside, light wood finishes throughout the house create a warm and calming atmosphere.
In the bedrooms, recessed windows double as reading nooks and display shelves, adding functionality and charm to the spaces. Custom cabinetry and well-placed windows balance openness with privacy, ensuring each area feels intentional and comfortable.
A Thoughtful Coastal Retreat
The Black Rock Beach House is a home designed for its environment and the people who inhabit it. Clean, human-scaled facades integrate seamlessly with the rugged coastal terrain, while interior details like niches and intimate corners invite moments of rest. The design doesn’t seek to dominate its surroundings but to live within them, reflecting a respect for both the landscape and the homeowners’ needs.
Ruhl Jahnes’ approach avoids excess, focusing instead on creating a space that feels timeless and personal. The Black Rock Beach House is not just a place to stay but a thoughtful response to a stunning location, combining simplicity, beauty, and practicality in every detail.
