American firm Specht Architects has built a cedar-clad house on New Jersey's Long Beach Island that is raised above the sand on stilts.

The 2,500-square-foot (232-square-metre) Beach Haven Residence is nestled the tiny borough of the same name on the barrier island that separates the Atlantic Ocean and the mainland. "The lot is on the beachfront, but very small, tucked away from the street, and had many code-regulated square-footage and height restrictions," said Specht Architects.

New Jersey's coastline has zoning restrictions limiting residential construction to two storeys. The nearby Sea Bright House by Jeff Jordan was also built to comply with this. "The challenge was to create something open and light-filled that takes advantage of its beautiful setting, yet uses every available square inch of buildable area allowed by law," Specht Architects said.
Made with a fibreglass roof, hurricane-grade windows, cedar siding, and stainless steel components, the house is built to withstand all types of weather. The lifted structure has a pebbled carport underneath with enclosed steps leading up to the kitchen, dining, and living rooms.

On the first floor is a TV room, guest bedroom, and two separate deck spaces on each wing ? one with a hot tub and one facing the beach. Light plays an important role in the interior design, with numerous large windows bathing the spaces.

A collection of artificial light fixtures in each room range from grey orbs floatin...