The quintessential New England structure, the shingle-style house, has been exported—and by that we mean to the West Coast—but for the finest examples of the style, we're sticking to a round-up of some of the homeland's offerings. Up first is an example in Boothbay Harbor, Me., currently asking $10,000 per month. Though it was recently constructed—in 2004—the brokerbabble claims it was inspired by the work of John Calvin Stevens, one of the Shingle Style's great masters. While we see the comparison in the exterior form, the interiors are a little too glossy to match the Stevens's understated designs. That said, authenticity goes by the wayside when the house is perched on a site like this: a wooded acre with 357 feet of waterfront and a deep-water dock.
? A bit further down the Maine coast, this Kennebunkport spread might not hold a candle to the nearby Bush compound in the size department, but we can't imagine a house that so suits the rocky coastline. Built just steps from the sea, the rustic six bedroom takes advantage of the sea views without spoiling the view. Now, on to the price: a not-insignificant $9,500 per month. Too much? Not for this unique location.
? For that same price—$9,500 per month—renters can secure this luxe waterfront estate in Harwich Port, Mass. for the off-season. The six-bedroom, 5,000-square-foot Gambrel has plenty going for it on paper, like a tennis court and instant beach access, but the interior detailing gives it away as the '80s build that it is. Plus, who wants to head to the Cape for the winter? And who of those can afford $9,500 per month in rent?
? For the this-and-that approach to Shingle Style architecture, look no further than Westerly, R.I., where this turn-of-the-century "cottage" is enjoying seaside living like it's 1899. A glassed porch keeps breezes at bay, while nine bedrooms provide plenty of space for guests—there's space for 12. The multi-peaked charmer is on the market for $7,500 per month.
? It's no surprise that our smallest Shingle Style selection would be located in the super-pricey Hamptons, but this East Hampton, N.Y. registers as a deal in our book. The three-bedroom, 3,000-square-foot cottage boasts a nice patch of grass, a swimming pool, and a $3,500-per-month rent. That's quite a deal in the land of $350,000-per-month summer rentals, even if it is north of the highway.
· 40 Royall Road [Sotheby's]
· 197 Ocean Avenue [Zillow]
· 3 Davis Ln [Zillow]
· 112 Noyes Neck Road [Zillow]
· East Hampton [Zillow]
· All Renters Week 2011 posts [Curbed National]