A Visionary – Plum Builders

Large and shingle-style are often the first words that come to mind when thinking of homes in the Hamptons. In the last few years, one of those descriptions has changed. The ubiquitous “shingle-style” home has some people looking around for a more modern house, one with the warmth of tradition but with modern details for clean lines and convenience.

In 1982, when Al and Mary Giaquinto founded Plum Builders, Inc. in East Hampton, the Modern Barn® was a glimmer on the edge of their horizon. But after 25 years in the business, Mr. Giaquinto was inspired to take a different direction. This wasn’t the first time. Plum Builders’ homes are already distinctive. What was different this time? Says Mr. Giaquinto, “The Barn room changed everything. My daughter rode horses out here in the eighties, as did I, with the Marders. I know the New England barn shape and its utility. But that volume of space, translated through light, changes the home dynamic. No longer are we confined to “living room,” “dining room,” “family room,” etc. No room is an island. Space is open, wide, and filled with light. Everyone loves the Modern Barn® room.” Add in modern details, a chef’s kitchen, loads of bedrooms and gorgeously appointed bathrooms, complete with a stunning amenity-filled lower level and you find yourself in a Modern Barn®.

The Modern Barn® has become popular and well known enough that it has inspired knock-offs and other architects’ renditions. Mr. Giaquinto’s thoughts on this are plain, “It’s flattering, to be sure. But a knock-off is just that. We build custom, and market homes, and remodel other homes into Modern Barns. No two Modern Barn® homes are alike. Each home we build is unique with a selection of architectural details that are distinctive to the Modern Barn®. The best thing about building custom with us, besides keeping every step of the process in house and therefore keeping costs and schedule under control, is that you can custom design as much or as little as you like. Today everything is custom: Ferragamo, Bentley, and Modern Barn® can all be customized to suit your style and needs.”

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