New Build on Historic Bass River

South Dennis

Design/Build: McPhee Associates
Interior Design: MH Interior Design
Photography: Jana Cevolo

Perched on a hillside overlooking the Bass River in South Dennis, this custom home was designed as a year-round residence for homeowners relocating from California. While the homeowners were drawn to the property’s charm and location, the aging structure was dated, undersized, and poorly positioned on the lot. A full redesign offered the opportunity to create a home that honored the historic character of the neighborhood while better supporting modern living.

Working closely with the homeowner—an interior designer—our design-build team developed a three-bedroom home inspired by traditional New England connected farm architecture. The new L-shaped footprint was carefully sited to capture sweeping views of Bass River while addressing to the site’s hillside conditions and conservation setbacks. Inside, thoughtfully designed gathering spaces—from the chef’s kitchen to the light-filled sunroom and inviting lower-level retreat—support both everyday living and effortless entertaining.

RECOGNITION

Published in BDG’s Cape & Islands Design Guide – 2025 edition

Two-story gray shingle home with garage, brick chimney, and garden – McPhee Associates of Cape Cod.

Bright, spacious New Build kitchen with white cabinetry, marble backsplash, and large windows – McPhee Associates of Cape Cod.

Bright, modern kitchen with white cabinetry and marble details near Historic Bass River – McPhee Associates of Cape Cod.

A bright sunroom with large windows, plants, shingled walls, and white paneled ceiling – McPhee Associates of Cape Cod.

Blue-walled New Build with modern chandelier, large windows, and adjoining sunroom – McPhee Associates of Cape Cod.

A bright hallway with light wood floors, teal poufs, framed art, potted fern – McPhee Associates of Cape Cod.

Dark blue walls, a tree-and-lake mural, and light wood floors create an elegant new build – McPhee Associates of Cape Cod.

Dark blue paneled room with brick fireplace, portrait, and Bass River mural – McPhee Associates of Cape Cod.

River views and lush trees through windows, with staircase and sliding glass doors – McPhee Associates of Cape Cod.

Bright, organized home office with natural light near Historic Bass River – McPhee Associates of Cape Cod.

A round stone fire pit glows in a green backyard before a new white house – McPhee Associates of Cape Cod.

Light wood floors and French doors with woven blinds let natural light fill this bright new build – McPhee Associates of Cape Cod.

Blue built-in shelves display books, family photos, and artwork – McPhee Associates of Cape Cod.

Golf simulator with turf and bag, ideal for your new or Historic Bass River home – McPhee Associates of Cape Cod.

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Second Home Owners from Maryland

“This was our first brand-new custom-built home. While our Dennis house was being built, we were living in Maryland, more than 500 miles away. We especially appreciated the extra effort and sound guidance that you provided us during our three trips to the Cape at significant construction milestones…“

Barry and Judy, East Dennis, MA

Harwich Port Project

“McPhee Associates has been great to work with, and the quality of your work and that of your subcontractors have been top notch…I especially appreciate the help that you gave us while we negotiated a difficult permitting process, and your expertise with the Town of Harwich was invaluable. I look forward to the opportunity of working with you again.”

Thomas P. Catalano, AIA, LEED, AP, Catalano Architects, Inc.

Five Time Returning Customers in Yarmouth

“Members of my family and I have chosen McPhee Associates to design and build for us for five new homes or major reconstructions, and we couldn’t be more pleased with the results.”

Marcia and Dave, West Yarmouth, MA

Second Time Customers In Orleans

“An incredible experience. With always our best interest, first and foremost, everything was exactly as we wanted it. Your ability to listen to what we wanted and to make it all happen with your guidance was a true partnership…Our home was perfect and beautiful…”

Linda and Paul, Orleans, MA

New Build in Harwich Port

“Your professionalism and the way you have made the building process as easy as possible for us has been wonderful. Naturally, all our neighbors and plenty of strangers passing by have asked us about McPhee’s services and our response has consistently been the same – we are very pleased and haven’t even one criticism. We would highly recommend McPhee to anyone – Rob, you have quite the team…On this second anniversary of the start of the project, I wanted to send a sincere thank you to all of you.”

Patricia and Bill, Harwich Port, MA