Residential architecture on Martha's Vineyard.
The island has shaped a lot of our work. The ponds, the marsh, and the scrub oak ask the building to sit quietly.
A permitting process with several boards.
Building on the Vineyard can mean several reviews. Depending on location, projects may require review by the Martha's Vineyard Commission, local building departments (six separate towns), Conservation Commission, Board of Health, and — for historic structures — local historic districts. We know these bodies, their processes, and their timelines. We prepare the submissions and stay with them. Approval is not something we can promise.
Built for the coastal climate.
The Vineyard's coastal climate — salt air, humidity, freeze-thaw cycles — is hard on many synthetic materials. Untreated Alaskan Yellow Cedar and white oak can weather. Vinyl-binder paints and plastic trim tend to deteriorate. We specify for those conditions, so the outside can be maintained. Read about our methods.
About working on Martha's Vineyard.
Do you work on Martha's Vineyard regularly?
Yes. Martha's Vineyard is one of our core markets. We have completed and have underway several projects on the island, including Pond House, designed by Zander Auerbach with Maryann Thompson Architects. Architectural Record published it in November 2024 as Egret Meadow House.
How does permitting work on Martha's Vineyard?
Permitting on the Vineyard often involves more than one board. Depending on your property's location, you may need review by the Martha's Vineyard Commission, local Conservation Commission, Board of Health, and building department — each with its own timeline. We manage the submissions.
Can you recommend contractors on Martha's Vineyard?
Yes. We have worked with general contractors, structural engineers, and specialty subcontractors who work regularly on the island. Those relationships matter there, because the island's remoteness makes logistics harder.
Can you work on a historic home in a Martha's Vineyard historic district?
Yes. We have experience with the island's historic district commissions, including in Edgartown, Vineyard Haven, and Oak Bluffs. We can assess whether your property is subject to historic review and guide you through the process.
How do we start a project on Martha's Vineyard?
The first step is a conversation. We are happy to visit a site before you have purchased it, review existing drawings, or talk through your program and timeline. Contact us at zander@auerbacharchitecture.com or 917 991 8533.
Ready to talk about your project?
We are glad to visit a site, review existing drawings, or simply have a first conversation. Contact Zander at zander@auerbacharchitecture.com or 917 991 8533.
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