Portal to the Lake

Type
Residential

Description
Nature is a lovely muse and water is one of her most captivating charms. Lake home architecture is a joy to design as it is meant to reflect the beauty, calm, and tranquility of the surroundings. An underlying current of relaxation transports residents, their families, and friends to a place of disconnect from the noise and bustle of everyday life. With the lake as the focal point, window placement becomes paramount. Ideally, water views can be enjoyed from every room of the house.

An equally significant consideration in lake home design is the seemingly effortless transition to outdoor living spaces, effectively bringing the outdoors inside. Serene screen porches and three season rooms, sun-soaked open patio spaces leading to secluded covered havens providing shelter from the elements, and comfortable fire pits created for warmth and camaraderie are all points to ponder in the process. Dusk renderings, like the one above, provide clients with a glimpse of what to expect from their outdoor amenities. Capturing the desired ambiance is key to a successful design.

Location
Michigan, USA

Year
2021

Details
Lake homes are magnets for family gatherings, special events, long holiday weekends, or quiet centering retreats. They are thoughtfully designed to accommodate large groups with expansive, open concept family rooms and kitchens, accommodating and comfortable bunkrooms, and bonus entertaining options.

This lakeside gem has a few surprises up its sleeve. Let’s start from the bottom up. The lower level includes a sizable rec area with a well-appointed kitchenette and beverage center. Lots of space for gathering and fun activities. Billiards anyone? A guest suite and laundry can be found on this level as well. The lower-level walkout also accesses a generous covered patio with an outdoor dining space, lounging space, and hot tub.

The main level centerpiece is a two-story great room with a wall of windows overlooking the lake, a view that can be enjoyed immediately upon entry. The open concept layout of the main level connects the great room, kitchen, and dining area allowing for maximized opportunities to enjoy each other’s company. A three seasons room is situated just off the kitchen and great room, which invites residents and guests alike to grab a cup of coffee and enjoy the Zen of nature while curled up in front of the cozy fireplace. Another notable feature is the wine room adjacent to the dining area. All grapes are housed at just the right temperature and humidity. The second-floor’s main function is rest and relaxation, being composed primarily of bedrooms. Also located upstairs is an office, loft, and bonus room. Additional sleeping and living arrangements can be found in the carriage house across the street.

Details
The exterior of the carriage house was intentionally designed to complement the modern farmhouse style of the main home with a continuation of stone, board and batten siding, and metal roofing. The carriage house offers additional garage space on the main level with two car bays and RV storage that doubles as a half court gym. At 1,500 square feet, the second floor includes a living room, bunk room, extra bedroom, full bathroom, and open deck.