Shore duty

Rawlins Design respectfully remodels a midcentury gem on New York's Fire Island

Perched less than four miles off the south shore of New York's Long Island, Fire Island Pines is a summer haven for the LGBTQ+ community that is equally well known for its collection of modernist architectural jewels. Wedged between Great South Bay and the Atlantic Ocean, this narrow strip of sand, marsh and woodland is a study in contrasts. On the one hand, it is host to some of the region's largest dance parties; on the other, it is a holiday hamlet featuring pristine beaches and unique flora. Modernism is perhaps the prevailing architectural genre of the island's homes, although not all the houses are of the pedigree, or as lovingly restored, as 612 Shore Walk.

The home, originally created in 1969 for textile designer James Patterson, is a paragon of the modernist style, which emphasises minimalism and generosity of space. It is the brainchild of architect Harry Bates, who is renowned for residential projects on the island and has been skilfully updated by Christopher Rawlins of Rawlins Design. The two-story rectangular home consists of full walls of glass on both front and rear elevations, inviting the idyllic surroundings in. Inside, simple, midcentury modern décor does exactly what it is supposed to, providing comfort and function without distracting from the natural beauty of the nearby vegetation and views of Great South Bay.