Originally a fire-control observation post for coastal defense during World War II, and then renovated to have a lighthouse façade, Lookout Tower at Smith’s Point in Manchester, Mass., is one of the more unusual guesthouses you’ll see.
The adaptive-reuse project, led by architect Siemasko + Verbridge and contractor Windover Construction, converted the 11-story watchtower into a sea-themed guesthouse for the property’s owners.
It wasn’t a simple remodel. The 165-foot-tall tower had no elevator, air conditioning, or heating. Its walls, floors, ceilings, and stairs were made of concrete. The rooms were small, measuring only 13x13 feet.
Nevertheless, the Building Team was able to make the structure luxurious, redesigning it into what it calls a “vertical land yacht.” The team completely redid the tower, adding full guest quarters, an entertaining area, and balconies that overlook the Atlantic coast.
All 11 floors have wood finishes, nautical accents, white walls, and windows to open up each room. Stainless steel hardware, floor-to-ceiling maple panels, a maple vanity, a mahogany bed and paneling, and an aqua-tiled walk-in shower were installed.
Each floor has a different use, with two and a half baths, two bedrooms, a living room, snack room, and bar.
Related Stories
Great Solutions | Jul 9, 2021
MojoDesk creates a new solution for managing open office distractions
The MojoDome allows for a private work space while also maintaining a collaborative environment.
Great Solutions | Mar 18, 2021
Follow the leader: New following technology better equips robots for the jobsite
New proof-of-concept from Piaggio Fast Forward and Trimble enables robots and machines to follow humans.
Great Solutions | Feb 11, 2021
Simplifying the return to the office
A new web-based tool from Sasaki takes the guesswork out of heading back to the workplace.
Great Solutions | Oct 6, 2020
Could water-filled windows help buildings save energy?
New research shows how water-filled glass could help heat and cool buildings.
Great Solutions | Aug 10, 2020
From lobby to penthouse, elevators can be a 100% touch-free experience
The Toe-To-Go elevator system allows riders to operate the elevator entirely with their feet.
Great Solutions | Jul 13, 2020
Essential protection for businesses
Custom protective barriers help keep essential business employees safe.
Great Solutions | Apr 13, 2020
Family workstations highlight the new Fairfield Area Library
The workstations are the perfect remedy for squirming, restless children and toddlers.
Great Solutions | Feb 5, 2020
Power moves: The Shed
Precise positioning of mechanicals above its lighting keeps New York’s kinetic event space, The Shed, running.
Great Solutions | Dec 18, 2019
Robot uprising
Thyssenkrupp’s robotics interface platform helps robots use elevators like humans.
Great Solutions | Nov 12, 2019
Skanska designs personal protective equipment tailor-made for the female workforce
A safety vest is the first piece of equipment to undergo an update.