DOWNTOWN TAKES A TRIP TO THE SEASHORE

The crisp look of modern urban design—on a two-story scale—is reflected in these vacation beach houses conceived by Architect Harry Bates, who came to the theme in the middle of a career devoted to bigger things. Bates houses always look more massive than they really are. Built of cypress and cedar-rough-cut materials that can withstand the elements—these dwellings will last a lifetime

The rugged structure below offers a breezeway through the center that ties swimming pool to sea and blunts the force of Fire Island wind and water.

Long Island house above is 200 feet from the Atlantic surf. Children keep a canoe and Sunfish on a nearby pond, where their parents can shoot ducks.

Designed for a family with three small boys and lots of friends, every inch of space was planned in detail. This six-bunk boys' bedroom is a case in point.

The back of the house (below) is level with the dunes, reached by a flying bridge. Living room with glass walls on two sides runs from front to back.

Stormproof house above is built of cedar, inside and out. A ramp connects house with a walkway. Walls facing neighbors are windowless for privacy.

Bedroom walls are white-stained cedar, floors of whitened oak. Windows at each end look over bay and ocean. House is decorated in Marimekko fabrics.

Family room (above) of house at right has knotted cedar walls, rubbed oak floor and a kitchen opening onto living area. Counters are black vinyl "slate."

The house, another Fire Island getaway, is owned by family of enthusiastic sailors. Exterior cedar walls are free of knots, which can pop in damp weather.

EIGHT PHOTOS

ERIC SCHWEIKARDT