The latest Sketch Pad feature from the New York Times re-imagines a home in Clinton, Connecticut that fronts 1000 feet of marshland. William Grover and Charles Mueller of Centerbrook Architects take advantage of the view in their proposed design but manage to take full advantage of the existing structure. While many might view this as a tear-down house, their goal was to design an economical home that used the existing structure to create a home "that is durable and long-lasting and that eventually becomes a beloved house rather than a stylish house"...

The existing floorplan:

The proposed floorplan with addition:

The architects took full advantage of the view by adding larger (and more energy-efficient windows) and orienting the most lived-in rooms to the rear of the house. They also envisioned a deck and treehouse-gazebo. For the complete feature, photographs and explanation of the decisions made, visit The New York Times and the accompanying audio slideshow.

(Pics: Wendy Carlson, William Grover, Charles Mueller)