This Rare Modernist Connecticut Retreat Is the Ultimate Waterfront Getaway

Fill in the blank: I wish I had a private, off-the-radar retreat to ___________. Answers that come to mind: Think, meditate, write, immerse in nature, bond with my partner, even do absolutely nothing. Credit sociologist Ray Oldenburg for conceiving what he calls a “third space” — a destination that complements a person’s first place (home) and second place (work).

For anyone with home No. 3 on their bucket list, the search is over. This rare coastal Connecticut seaside cabin fits the bill — in spades. For starters, it sports an impeccable pedigree. Renowned New Haven–based architect Vincent C Amore designed and built the secluded, one-of-a-kind geometric structure in 1971 as an inspirational getaway for his family. Asking price: $1.5 million.

The 1,149-square-foot abode, coined “the triangular house,” sits at the intersection of Madison’s Circle Beach and Guilford’s Grass Island. “Known by area sailors because of its reflectivity of the sun, [the home] is akin to being aboard a moored, fully outfitted yacht,” notes Sotheby’s International Realty listing agent Ron Mazzacane.

“Vincent’s custom-designed modernist homes are magically positioned in nature,” adds partnering agent Carol Mancini.

A double-height ceiling in the light-filled living area creates an open, spacious feel. A soaring stone fireplace extends up to the ceiling.

Expansive glass windows look out onto nearby beaches.

“It is the best seat on the shore for Mother Nature’s performances,” Vincent’s partner, Dorothy, told Dwell magazine.

The entire first level sports polished hardwood flooring. A separate dining area opens up to an expansive wooden waterfront deck, ideal for eating outdoors. The small but well-equipped kitchen features stainless steel appliances, a mirrored backsplash, and granite countertops.

The home’s solo bedroom sits atop a black spiral staircase. Just off the primary suite, a second floor terrace offers even more unobstructed seaside views.

“We’ve been lucky to have enjoyed this setting for as long as we have,” says Vincent. “It is now time for our beach home to inspire others.”

The shoreline location itself is especially desirable: It’s centrally situated between New York City and Boston. “With summer approaching, the market in this area is hot,” says Carol. “People are coming in with cash offers over and above the listing price.”  

For now, prospective buyers will have to settle on viewing the home virtually. In-person showings will begin in June — provided, of course, the property doesn’t sell before then.  

Calls are coming in from as far away as London, reveals Carol.

Inquiries run the gamut, from locals familiar with the iconic home to an architectural preservationist with similar properties around the country. In any case, it’s going to take a niche buyer.

“I saw a family with a New York license plate drive up and knew immediately it wasn’t for them,” she says. “This isn’t your typical cottage on a sandy beach.”

Ron Mazzacane and Carol Mancini of Sotheby’s International Realty have listed 136 Neck Road, Guilford, Conn. for $1.5 million. View the video.