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Special Spaces: The Edge of the World

Cape Cod Home  /  Autumn 2023 /

Writer: Julie Craven Wagner / Photographer: Mike Crane 

Special Spaces: The Edge of the World

130AUT23_CoverNoUPC-2

Cape Cod Home  /  Autumn 2023 /

Writer: Julie Craven Wagner / Photographer: Mike Crane 


Landscape designer Greg Bilowz makes every last inch count when creating a singularly unique space that drinks in the view.

When an intrepid Sippewisset homeowner has a million-dollar view, a laundry list of design requests in a tight location that precariously falls off to nowhere, it requires some creative expertise. He first approached the construction crew working on the adjacent property to replace some windows and make a few minor repairs to his home. When the conversation turned to the exterior, its challenging topography and stunning views, Ralph Cataldo from Cataldo Custom Builders recommended he speak to landscape designer Greg Bilowz, of Bilowz Associates, Inc. With a “view you can’t take your eyes off of,” Bilowz gave thoughtful consideration to the homeowner’s long wish list along with a careful review of the site’s challenges required for design and permitting. Bilowz states, “The challenge was to create landscape elements that accentuated the vista within the footprint of the property, inside and out.” 

Bilowz presented his plan to the homeowner, which included an infinity edge pool and spa with an impressive cascading waterfall, formal terracing around the pool, and two strategically positioned fire pits. Each element captured the view of the ocean. The stonework needed to respect the Falmouth vernacular, the bronze railing details needed to be delicate, tasteful, and not obscure the view with a design that was compliant with Falmouth Conservation Commission’s requirements.  

To construct the design, Cataldo and Bilowz introduced the talented stone masons at Francisco Tavares, Inc. into the fold for the masonry, landscape, and site development. The Falmouth Pink granite, synonymous with the West Falmouth moraine was featured in an existing small stone building set into the grade below...

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Julie Craven Wagner

Julie Craven Wagner began her experience with Cape Cod Life in 2010 when she joined the sales team after 10 years of working with local businesses on the Cape and Islands with WMVY. In addition to sales, she is the Associate Publisher/Editor of Cape Cod LIFE, Cape Cod HOME, and Cape Cod ART. Growing up on the Outer Cape has given her a unique perspective of life on Cape Cod, from tip to bridge, and that is reflected in her appreciation and presentation of stories found within the pages of our publications. Julie lives in North Falmouth with her husband, Eric, and their yellow lab, Enzo. When she finds free time, she enjoys her Cape Cod life sailing on Buzzards Bay, spending time on the beach in Wellfleet, or exploring Martha’s Vineyard.