As told to Nicole Letts
Photograph by Allison Leotis
When self-proclaimed history buff and architecture aficionado Ellen Rothstein first saw the iconic glass-front midcentury modern house on Riverview Drive in 2011, she turned to her husband Christopher Cook and said, “If that house ever becomes available, that’s the house that I’d love to live in, retire in, and spend the rest of my life in.” In 2019, that promise became the couple’s reality; they acquired the Cormac McGarvey-designed structure from the previous owner, local icon Jean Poleszak. All three shared a common vision to preserve the house as it was and respect its architectural integrity. The living room features a 60-foot glass window facade with nearly 360-degree views of the surrounding marsh. The kitchen is the crown jewel, done in bubblegum pink, reflecting a bygone era. History comes alive on Jekyll.
“The house is part of the reason why we’re here. We’re here because it’s Jekyll. The beaches, the wildlife, the bike trail, and the fact that it doesn’t have a traffic light…the people are incredibly nice, warm, and welcoming. I thank God every day for this beautiful place. My husband and I never get over the miracle of that. It feels like such a blessing.”
