Grand views in Black Rock
Backyard described as ‘ a magical secret garden’
“If you’re lucky enough to live by the sea, you’re lucky
enough.” That was a favorite phrase of Marilyn Thorkilsen who, for over 20 years, savored living in the beautifully renovated waterfront Cape at St. Mary’s by the Sea. Thorkilsen moved to Black Rock after having spent many years as a New Yorker, thriving on the "buzz of the city”. Her daughter Erin said that in her later years, sitting on her porch in St. Mary’s, her mother would remark how it was like she had found the best of both worlds: the stimulating culture of New York City but with the sanctuary and calm of being by the sea.
“She knew she wanted to be on the water,” Erin Thorkilsen said. “But she wanted enough space and room for gardens. The day she looked at homes in Black Rock, she was immediately struck by the friendliness and warmth of the people and felt like she had found the right place. She thrived on the vibrancy and sense of community. There is a special spirit to ‘ Black Rockers’ that she both shared, contributed towards, and appreciated.”
Marilyn was a professional interior and landscape designer who took great pride in designing and caring for the 4,000- squarefoot home. When she renovated the home in 2005, her goal was to take full advantage of the stunning water views so she could “stand at the kitchen sink and watch the boats go by.” The renovation featured custom cabinetry throughout and included the kitchen, master suite, two bathrooms and porch.
Erin Thorkilsen described the backyard as a sanctuary that many would call, “a magical secret garden.” The home and gardens were published in Connecticut Cottages and Gardens magazine. The formal gardens in the front yard create a courtyard feeling along with a spectacular rose and peony cutting garden. The backyard is highlighted with a bluestone patio and entertaining area.
One of Marilyn’s favorite memories was the annual Fourth of July fireworks celebration. Her daughter explained how Marilyn and her neighbors would host parties where guests would meander between homes.
“The party would often end in the rocking chairs on her beautiful porch where she would play Jimi Hendrix’ National Anthem to accompany the fireworks display,” Thorkilsen explained.
The home lends itself well to entertaining with a central flow to the interior and exterior. The entry foyer bears a stain and gold leaf compass rose by a renowned artist, giving a nod to Black Rock's shipping past. The true north arrow was calculated to be in the correct position; the directional arrows are in sync with the home’s layout, each pointing towards a different room.
Looking straight ahead into the dining room, French doors open directly to the rear patio. The living room features a fireplace and an expansive picture window overlooking the front lawn, garden and unobstructed water views of Long Island Sound. Views of the water can also be enjoyed from the bright and open kitchen boasting an island with breakfast bar, handsome white cabinetry and a gorgeous dining area with built- ins and window seat overlooking the water. The kitchen is open to a lovely sitting area with fireplace.
Repeated use of graceful arches were used throughout the renovation including the kitchen dining area, hooded cooktop, master bedroom bookcases and the entrance to the master bath.
There are four bedrooms including a first- floor master suite with built- ins, fireplace and elegant bath. On the upper level, one of the bedrooms has a bed built into the dormer cove making for a cozy, “captain quarters” sleeping space in addition to the large seating area.