New England Coastal: Homes that Tell a Story by Mark Hutker
New England Coastal: Homes that Tell a Story
Every homeowner, and every project, brings a special set of circumstances to the design process. It is through truly understanding daily life patterns and movements, a home’s connection to its setting, and a sense of well-being and fulfillment, that we’re able to successfully translate organic ideas into beautifully illustrated stories. In this panel discussion, Mark Hutker, FAIA, Jim Cappuccino, AIA, Thomas McNeill, AIA, and Ryan Alcaidinho of Hutker Architects presented lessons learned as they’ve navigated the challenges and rewards of creating design narratives and addressing client requirements—all while artistically bringing to life a home and sanctuary that their clients fall in love with.
About the Speakers
For more than 35 years, Hutker Architects has been collaborating with families and individuals to create one-of-a- kind homes that are uniquely suited to the particulars of their location and the life patterns of the people who occupy them. Today, Hutker Architects is a team of 70 professionals who share the belief that houses represent the “social atom,” the essential definer of family and cultural heritage. They are passionate about the power of meaningful architecture and committed to harnessing our individual talents toward a common goal: advancing the art of dwelling.
Mark Hutker, FAIA moved to Martha’s Vineyard in 1985, redirecting his design focus to residential architecture. After acquiring Dunn Brady Associates, Mark began growing what is now known as Hutker Architects, creating a vibrant Vineyard office committed to crafting custom homes. Today, the firm continues to flourish with 70 professionals in four offices. Mark has written three books defining the new regional vernacular and narrative homes. His lectures resonate through esteemed institutions such as the Harvard Graduate School of Design, the University of Cincinnati, the Architectural Digest Home Show, The National Custom Builders Council, the AIA, among others, where he ignites critical conversations about architectural practice. Mark’s creative focus lies with the Ontic Initiative, devoted to advancing the art of dwelling through a synthesis of natural, behavioral and physical sciences. The Ontic initiative sponsors research grants exploring the fundamental human needs that underpin meaningful, impactful spaces.
Jim Cappuccino, AIA is a Partner at Hutker Architects, where he has worked since 2005. After spending several years with a prominent western mountain-region residential design firm, Jim brought his talents back east. He was recently inducted into the New England Design Hall of Fame and serves as a leadership cabinet member for the Leaders of Design Council. Jim believes in architecture that celebrates its context while interpreting the regional vernacular with designs both modern and timeless. Often elevating the discourse at Hutker, he fosters a collaborative design environment, models firm standards for client service, and is an active mentor within the firm. Licensed in Massachusetts, Vermont, Maine, and Wyoming, he is an active member of the American Institute of Architects and the Boston Society of Architects. He earned his Bachelor of Architecture from Roger Williams University.
Thomas McNeill, AIA is a Partner at Hutker Architects where his passion for creativity and innovation fuels his work. A recipient of the prestigious 2019 “5 under 40” award, Thomas’s designs have been featured by renowned publications such as Architectural Digest, Ocean Home, and Luxe magazines. His forward-thinking approach to architecture focuses on evolving how dwellings interact with and enhance the human experience. Thomas is the co-founder of the Ontic Initiative, a nonprofit organization dedicated to evolving dwellings to promote well-being and positively impact the human body. This initiative reflects his commitment to pushing the boundaries of traditional architecture to improve lives.
Ryan Alcaidinho is a Principal at Hutker Architects, where he has practiced since 2010. He has expertise in high-end residential design and industry experience in both landscape design and luxury retail. Throughout the years, he has served as project designer and project manager for Hutker projects throughout southern New England, Connecticut, Vermont, Maine, and New York. Ryan is known to have a keen eye for detail and has an innate ability to analyze visual information quickly. Named as a “5 Under 40” award winner by New England Home magazine in 2023, and a recognized member of “The List” by Modern Luxury Interiors Boston, Ryan has played an integral role in establishing Hutker’s Boston Studio in Beacon Hill, successfully leading the team while growing a reputable presence in the city. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Architecture from Wentworth Institute of Technology.