Long Beach Island, New Jersey

Family beach retreat (under construction)

Phyto is currently working on a two-acre bayside property located in Long Beach Island. To create an immersive landscape within a narrow site, the design creates a series of dune-like landforms. This landscape will evoke the wild dunes and back dunes of this historic landscape, but it will not imitate them. Instead, we build upon that ecological pattern language with native and novel assemblages that artfully stylize and reinterpret a new domestic wild. To contrast with this naturalistic language, Phyto is designing a strikingly modern hardscape of limestone pavers and sculptural boulders. Nestled within these planted landforms will be a variety of spaces for family and friends. Places where you can disappear with a book, watch fish swim, or pick fresh berries.

Design team: Jay Madden Architects, Steven Fall Barnegat Light Landscaping