Longport Residence

Longport, NJ

Architect: Asher Slaunwhite & Partners
Builder: Leeds Builders, Inc.

Project Overview

Peacefully located on the southern tip of Absecon Island in Longport, NJ, this custom coastal residence captures the quiet luxury and timeless elegance that defines the area. Designed for seamless indoor-outdoor living and year-round durability, the home pairs modern architecture with a natural, coastal feel. Set just steps from the shore, the thoughtful design, natural aesthetic, and durable materials come together in perfect harmony.

Material Selection & Performance

The exterior features KERERŪ thermally modified wood cladding, selected for its soft, pre-weathered appearance and exceptional long-term performance. Finished using a proprietary brushing process and a zero-VOC exterior oil, KERERŪ evokes the subtle grays of driftwood and dune grass while maintaining a consistent appearance as it naturally ages.

To introduce contrast and architectural definition, NIGIRI shou sugi ban acetylated modified wood was custom milled for the window and garage trim. Its rich, charred finish provides depth and visual interest while complementing the weathered exterior palette.

Together, the two materials provide a high-performance exterior solution engineered for beachfront conditions. Thermally modified wood offers excellent dimensional stability, moisture resistance, and low environmental impact, while acetylated modified wood delivers exceptional durability through its patented acetylation process, minimizing movement and resisting warping even in harsh coastal climates.

Project Team

Asher Slaunwhite & Partners is a prominent architectural firm specializing in coastal residential architecture. The firm prides itself on being considerate and responsive to a project’s context, ensuring that it integrates seamlessly into its location.

Since 1986, Leeds Builders, Inc. has provided quality workmanship and customer satisfaction for projects of all sizes, from kitchen makeovers to large-scale renovations and custom seaside home builds. Their well-rounded, service-oriented team is committed to bringing every client’s dream home to life.

Exterior Cladding

Product: KERERū
Species: Thermally Modified Radiata Pine
Finish: Oil
Notes: FSC®-Certified: FSC® Mix credit
CVG (Clear vertical grain)
Smooth Face
Sealed 4 Sides (S4S)