A Mornington Peninsula lake house that blends North American interiors with a coastal edge

Architects Lebel & Bouliane designed a ground-up residence in Scarborough, Ontario, drawing inspiration from the dramatic Scarborough Bluffs, a geological formation bordering Lake Ontario. The design aimed to evoke both stone and water, using materials that reflect the natural surroundings. The clients, a couple with three young children and an extended live-in family, sought a home that could accommodate multi-generational living, offering both shared spaces for family life and private bedroom suites, with a vision to age in place within the residence. The project, named Meadowcliffe House, was completed over several years, benefiting from the architects' prior experience with similar multi-generational homes featuring extensive stone. Meadowcliffe House is characterized by its dramatic structure, featuring a pair of stone volumes that frame a three-story central atrium. This atrium not only floods the interior with daylight but also offers unobstructed views of Lake Ontario from the moment one enters the front door. The limestone used for the residence was carefully selected and quarried in Owen Sound, Ontario, with Luc Bouliane personally choosing veins for consistency. The stone pieces were meticulously cut and mitered at the quarry for seamless integration between the exterior and interior, reinforcing the connection to the home's natural environment. In addition to limestone, the architects incorporated stainless steel, glass, bronze, and wood to create a flexible and accessible dwelling. The 7,750-square-foot residence encompasses 29 rooms, including six distinct bedroom suites spread across three levels. The ground floor is specifically designed for family gatherings and larger events, featuring a living area that opens directly onto an infinity pool. The interior design emphasizes natural elements, with furnishings kept minimal to complement the architecture and surrounding landscape. Lebel explains that the focus was on simplicity, texture, and scale, utilizing materials such as walnut, oak, metal, and glass, while textiles remained neutral and muted. The property also prioritized the preservation of natural landscape features, retaining over two dozen mature trees and reintroducing native plant species to blend with the Scarborough Bluffs environment. The project successfully created intimate spaces for the immediate family while also providing areas suitable for larger gatherings with extended family members. The master bedroom, for instance, offers expansive views of the lake, enhancing the connection to the natural setting. The use of natural Algonquin Limestone, personally selected by Bouliane, covers 6,350 square feet, ensuring a consistent aesthetic throughout. Notable interior pieces include walnut dining chairs, a table, and a bench by hollis+morris, and a large ash and walnut coffee table by Atelier Dimo, sourced through Montauk Sofa. The integration of the house with its site, the consideration for multi-generational living, and the deliberate material palette highlight the architects' approach to creating a home that is both aesthetically integrated with its surroundings and functionally adaptable for its occupants over time. #ResidentialArchitecture #MultiGenerationalLiving #LakeOntario #ScarboroughBluffs #LebelBouliane #LimestoneConstruction #SustainableDesign #InteriorDesign #FamilyHome

Robson Rak Architects have crafted their third rammed earth house on Victoria’s Mornington Peninsula, a sprawling residence deeply integrated into its natural surroundings. The design emphasizes a sense of solidity and embeddedness, largely achieved through the extensive use of rammed earth. This material choice was central to the clients' brief for a low-maintenance home on their ten-acre plot, a preference shared by the architects for its pure, inside-out building quality, where the material itself forms both interior and exterior finishes. The house is considered a subtle monument, possessing enduring qualities without ostentatious grandeur. Initially, the clients envisioned a symmetrical, rectangular modernist building, but the architects, Kathryn Robson and Chris Rak, felt this design wouldn't adequately respond to the site's unique characteristics. Instead, they proposed a design that broke up the rigid rectangular form, introducing level changes and manipulating the edges to create a more dynamic and textured structure. Despite these modifications, the architects maintain that the house retains a modernist sensibility, albeit one that extends and adapts rather than adhering to a simple, gallery-like cube. Perched at the highest point of the site, the house maintains a low, lean profile, appearing to settle into the earth. Its southern facade features a tiered design, descending into the site with a series of single and double steps, a deliberate strategy to work with the natural slope of the land and create a gentle, quiet presence. The orientation of the house was influenced by a tall plane tree, which became a focal point for a large window in the main bedroom. From this central point, the house extends westward, incorporating a central volume for living, dining, and kitchen areas. A parents' retreat is located at the eastern end, a second living zone to the west, and three additional bedrooms line the northern edge. A terrace spans the southern side, offering views of a fernery at the lower part of the property. The southern orientation is a distinctive feature, designed to avoid the harshness of direct sunlight. The clients preferred a softer, ambient light, which the architects achieved through various strategies, including deep eaves, narrow clerestory windows, and a trio of skylights above the kitchen. These elements not only control light but also introduce diverse lighting conditions throughout the spaces. The design incorporates intimate pockets, such as a window seat next to a fireplace, which benefits from ample sunlight. The entry, an understated three-sided forecourt paved with sleepers and compressed gravel, is another notable space, praised for its quietness and symmetry. The interior design reflects these same qualities, utilizing a restrained palette of earth, glass, timber, and concrete. The materials are harmoniously combined, with slender aluminum window frames contrasting with the substantial four-hundred-millimetre rammed earth walls and polished concrete floors. Greyed timber surfaces, including a central spine wall that cleverly conceals services difficult to integrate into rammed earth, add texture. The architectural focus was on texture rather than vibrant colors or patterns, aiming for an easy-to-live-in space that feels earthy, tactile, and warm, yet timeless. Custom details, such as a bespoke front door handle crafted from found brass objects by an artist friend of the client and custom-designed side tables by Chris Rak, who has a background in sculpture, enhance the home's unique character. The children's bathroom features a carefully proportioned freestanding vanity set back from the wall to allow for floor-to-ceiling windows and linen curtains. The kitchen includes a central island encased in purple-grey tiles for socializing and a discreet butler's kitchen behind a sliding door for practical, everyday use, equipped with a second set of appliances, stainless steel benches, and ample storage. The success of the project is attributed to the exceptional site, a well-defined brief, and a collaborative relationship between the architects and the client. #RammedEarthHouse #RobsonRakArchitects #MorningtonPeninsula #SustainableArchitecture #ModernistDesign #LowMaintenanceHome #NaturalLightDesign #CustomDetails #InteriorDesign #SiteResponsiveArchitecture

Nineteen years ago, CK and Morgan Smith acquired their first large boat, which significantly altered their lifestyle. For nearly two decades, they consistently utilized their free time, primarily summer weekends, to engage in activities on Pickwick Lake. Their four children grew up considering Pickwick Lake a secondary home. Initially, the family docked their three-stateroom boat at Aqua Yacht Harbor, spending weekends living on the water. As the children matured, their desire for more friends and less time anchored on the boat led the Smiths to purchase a ski boat, increasing their active participation in lake activities. Approximately two years prior to this account, the Smiths decided to formalize Pickwick's status as a second home. They collaborated with architect Carson Looney of LRK and interior designer Cindy McCord of Cindy McCord Interior Design, Inc., to construct a dream house at Pickwick Lake, enabling them to enjoy lake life year-round. This residence was intended to offer a complete transition from their everyday lives, providing a sense of calmness immediately upon entering. Morgan expressed a desire for a "beach house" ambiance, contrasting with their Germantown home's French country style, which Cindy had designed 14 years earlier. Cindy drew inspiration from the sun-washed, laid-back, clean-lined residences of Florida’s Rosemary Beach community, a place the Smith family also frequented, effectively creating a "beach house at the lake." Their Germantown residence featured a warm color palette of yellows, corals, and browns. For the new lake house, they opted for a cooler scheme of grays, blues, and whites, resulting in a transitional aesthetic that blends clean lines with coziness and comfort. Morgan envisioned a space where the family and guests could relax comfortably. A weathered wood pedestal table seating eight was a must for Morgan, facilitating entertaining. Doors open fully from the dining space to a screened porch, which accommodates a long farmhouse table with casual cane-seat chairs, collectively seating 20 people. The spacious screened porch, which includes an L-shaped wicker sofa, two side chairs, a stone fireplace, and a mounted flat-screen TV, is a primary gathering spot for the family, usable even in winter thanks to heaters and the fireplace. Cindy McCord and Morgan Smith collaborated closely on the project, including several buying trips to Atlanta for antique and vintage pieces, such as a weathered workbench that adds texture and patina. The designer expressed satisfaction with every room, particularly noting the architectural features of the stairwell. The open living area seamlessly connects to the dining room and kitchen through wide openings framed by reclaimed wood beams, sourced from a Mississippi-based supplier. The kitchen features white cabinetry, white shiplap walls, pale countertops, and a rustic custom wood vent hood, complemented by oversized pendant lights above the island. The living room's stone fireplace extends to a whitewashed peaked wood ceiling, contributing to an airy and ethereal atmosphere. This soft, neutral color palette and inviting ambiance extend into the bedrooms. The master suite includes an upholstered headboard with a subtle pattern, white bedding, and neutral draperies, fostering a restful environment. A guest room showcases a nautical blue-and-white palette with patterned elements, while a large bunk room accommodates ten people with built-in beds and loft-like sleeping arrangements. The house can sleep 18 individuals in beds alone. A spacious entertainment area on the lower level provides extra seating, a bar, and a billiards room, serving as another gathering place for the family. The lake house represents a compromise, fulfilling CK's desire for a lake retreat and Morgan's wish for a beach house, creating a beloved space for family relaxation and entertainment. #BeachHouse #LakeHouse #InteriorDesign #FamilyHome #RusticElegance #TransitionalStyle #PickwickLake #CindyMcCord #HomeFeatures

MU Architecture, in collaboration with JS Bourdages Architecture, completed the Memphremagog Lake Residence, a 6,700-square-foot modern home situated on Lake Memphremagog in Magog, Canada. The design of the residence takes inspiration from the unfolded wing of a bird, manifesting in an angular roof and a distinctive structure. The exterior features a combination of dark and natural stone, complemented by a fragmented wooden ceiling indoors, making the home a prominent feature in its environment. Positioned on a steeply sloped shoreline, the house capitalizes on its location to provide homeowners with expansive views of the surrounding landscape. The architectural design integrates numerous outdoor living spaces, some of which are partially covered, providing areas for relaxation, entertaining, and swimming. A notable feature is the roof, which cantilevers out 14 feet, offering protection from varying weather conditions and contributing to the home's striking aesthetic. A key engineering marvel of the residence is its elevated swimming pool, which extends 16 feet over the yard. This cantilevered design creates the illusion that the pool is suspended in mid-air, seamlessly connecting to the lake below. The structural integrity of this feature is maintained by a reinforced concrete framework, showcasing advanced construction techniques. Inside, the home boasts an open-concept living area that combines the kitchen, dining room, and living room. This space is characterized by a wood-covered ceiling with varying heights, reaching up to 25 feet in certain sections. The design incorporates floor-to-ceiling windows that align with the roofline, ensuring unobstructed panoramic views of the property's rear and the natural scenery. The warmth of the wooden ceiling extends into the kitchen, where a wall of wooden cabinets and integrated appliances creates a cohesive and inviting atmosphere. Walnut panels are used to unify the kitchen area with a built-in dinette, a library, and one half of a double living room, enhancing the sense of continuity and sophisticated design. The main floor of the residence includes a veranda, a coatroom, a powder room, a laundry room, and the primary suite, in addition to the expansive public living spaces. The ground level is designed for recreation and relaxation, housing a lounge, a training room, and a spa area complete with a dry sauna and a whirlpool bath. This lower level also features three additional bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a playroom, providing ample space for guests and family activities. The overall design harmonizes modern architectural elements with the natural beauty of the Canadian lakeside setting, creating a luxurious and functional living environment. #LakeHouse #ModernArchitecture #CantileveredPool #MUArchitecture #JSBourdagesArchitecture #CanadianDesign #ArchitecturalInnovation #LuxuryHome #InteriorDesign

This article details the design and construction of a new 4,000-square-foot residence built on a sand dune along Lake Michigan’s eastern shoreline in Saugatuck by architect Kevin Toukoumidis, founding principal of dSPACE Studio. The project began with the challenge of a 4-acre site, where zoning regulations limited the buildable area to a mere 40-by-50-foot footprint. Furthermore, a 2007 fire had decimated the undeveloped dune, necessitating extensive replanting of native vegetation such as dune grass, junipers, and cacti to stabilize the landscape and eventually obscure the structure naturally. The design philosophy aimed to blur the lines between architecture, art, and nature, creating a home that responds innovatively to coastal living amidst sand hills. The residence was designed to sit lightly on its constricted footprint, appearing as a single-story structure from the entry but revealing a full-height glazed facade towards the lake as the land slopes away. The ultra-thin steel-frame roof, though appearing flat, subtly slopes upward to maximize views of the sky and water. From the shore, only the upper portion of the house is visible, characterized by a low-slung composition clad in sand-color stucco and sheltered by broad eaves lined with amber-toned hemlock planks, which integrate the structure into the natural setting. Connecting to nature was a primary goal, leading to the creation of abundant outdoor spaces, including a two-tier ipe deck with distinct dining and lounging areas, a slender lap-pool terrace, and an upper-level lake-facing balcony. These outdoor areas are paved with tawny porcelain stoneware, a material consistently used for interior floors and countertops, further linking the indoor and outdoor environments. A key design element is the entry courtyard, conceived as a space for welcome, transition, and respite, featuring a central ginkgo tree. The courtyard is enclosed by a palisade of rotatable Cor-Ten panels that act as a kinetic sculpture and front gate. These 1⁄2-inch-thick steel vanes can be angled to frame specific views of the house or the forested hillside, while also providing shelter from the wind. A pergola-like roof extension with fixed aluminum louvers defines the courtyard as an outdoor room and offers protection from intense midday sun. A fire bowl, chairs, and a custom bench with a Cor-Ten wine bottle holder create a hospitable setting for outdoor entertaining. The home's interior layout includes an upper level with a great room flanked by the balcony and pool terrace, a glass-enclosed dining room, and the main bedroom with an adjoining screened porch. The lower floor, emerging from the dune, houses two guest bedrooms with a shared patio and glass-walled showers overlooking the water, a bunk room, and a flexible room currently used as a home gym. The interior material and color palettes are deliberately limited, featuring porcelain stoneware, oak, and painted plaster, to create a sense of calmness and uniformity. This minimalist approach ensures that the lake and landscape remain the focal points, enjoyed through extensive eco-friendly triple-pane glazing, including a 30-foot-long wall of sliding doors in the great room. Striking design pieces, such as Konstantin Grcic's Noctambule pendant fixture over the kitchen island, blend subtly with the expansive views. Furniture, including contemporary pieces, modernist classics, and custom built-ins, is elegantly low-key and functional, such as Hans Wegner's Elbow chairs and Pierre Paulin swivel chairs, which are chosen for their ability to maximize engagement with the natural surroundings. The home seamlessly merges architecture with the natural environment, offering a tranquil retreat that evolves with the landscape. #LakeMichiganHome #Saugatuck #dSPACEStudio #ModernArchitecture #SustainableDesign #CoastalLiving #IndoorOutdoorLiving #ArchitecturalDesign #LuxuryHomes

Architectural designer Jeff Murphy and his wife Jill have created "Camp Murph," a dream cottage on Lake Pulaski in Minnesota, a place deeply significant to their lives. The Murphys, who grew up on opposite sides of the lake but met in San Diego, returned to Lake Pulaski to raise their family and desired to build a home that would serve as a central gathering spot. Now empty nesters, they’ve constructed a new cottage, about a mile from their previous family home, that accommodates their current life stage while remaining a welcoming hub for their three adult daughters. Jeff Murphy, an architectural designer, strategically positioned the house on a 50-foot bluff overlooking the water, with the main living areas on the primary level and guest rooms downstairs. The design of the home is a fusion of Jill's Scandinavian heritage and Jeff's Irish roots, evident in elements like carved timbers, rough-cut stone, and expansive windows. The couple aimed to incorporate the unique detailing and craftsmanship often found in historic Scandinavian homes, particularly in the woodworking, alongside the relaxed aesthetic characteristic of Minnesota lake homes. Key features of the cottage include reclaimed wood floors sourced from barns and a screened-in porch, which serves as the heart of the home. The exterior boasts black-stained siding contrasted with white trim and a cedar shake roof, reminiscent of Norwegian and Danish architecture. A firepit below the dining room window, framed with painted timbers and shed antlers, offers an alternative spot during windy lake days. Inside, the living room features a wall of windows offering panoramic lake views, complemented by a timbered ceiling made of white oak and elm, giving the room a sense of established history. A moss rock fireplace with chiseled stone corbels creates a cozy atmosphere, perfect for cool evenings. The kitchen is designed for family gatherings, with a large island and double windows that slide open to connect seamlessly with the screened-in porch, providing lake views. The island's Calacatta Laza quartz countertop is heated, a unique feature designed to enhance comfort. A dedicated pantry, featuring mossy green cabinets and unlacquered brass hardware, provides ample storage, allowing for a minimalist kitchen design without upper cabinets. The cottage also includes a Dutch door near the kitchen, providing easy access to the screened porch for pets like their golden retriever Piper and Shih Tzu poodle Daisy. The screened-in porch, a modest 13 by 13 feet, is intentionally sized to foster intimacy while still accommodating gatherings, and features an antique pub table and a woodburning fireplace. Inspired by Irish pubs, a dining alcove referred to as the “Dibrary” is lined with black-painted bookshelves and features an upholstered built-in bench, offering a cozy retreat for reading, conversation, or games. The main bedroom is angled with windows to capture diverse lake views and features wool carpet and Faribault Woolen Mill blankets for warmth. The property extends to the lakefront with two boathouses. One serves as an entertainment area with a soapstone bar and candy apple red bifolding windows, reflecting Scandinavian vernacular design with black-stained board-and-batten siding and chunky cedar brackets. The second boathouse, a circa-1915 structure, was restored with fieldstones gathered from the shoreline and repurposed sticks for awning window props, and is used as a landing area for canoes. The Murphys' home embodies their deep connection to Lake Pulaski, serving as both a personal sanctuary and a welcoming space for family and friends. #LakePulaski #MinnesotaHome #CottageDesign #ArchitecturalDesign #ScandinavianInfluence #IrishRoots #ReclaimedWood #ScreenedPorch #LakeHouse #FamilyHome

This article explores a luxurious cabin home situated on the peaceful shores of a natural lake, near the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains in South Carolina. Built in 2023, the residence draws inspiration from both luxurious cabin and rustic modern design styles. The owners, who intend to use it as a vacation spot for relaxation and entertaining, enlisted interior designer Brad Ramsey, with whom they had previously collaborated on four other properties. Ramsey's objective was to craft a comfortable yet modern lake house, emphasizing indoor-outdoor living and ample space for family gatherings and entertainment. The design approach centered on incorporating natural materials and textures to complement the surrounding environment, striking a balance between the woods and the lake. The living room, or 'great room,' exemplifies a comfort-filled rustic aesthetic, achieved through intentional color and material choices that harmonize with the outdoors. Notable architectural features include large steel-framed windows, exposed rafter beams, and a fireplace constructed from Lake James North Carolina stone veneer with limestone accents. This open-plan space is designed for both entertaining and relaxation. The designer strategically placed a custom-made chaise in front of the window, offering prime lake views and serving as a comfortable spot for naps. A significant design element is the massive covered upper porch, equipped with powered screens, which allows the dining room's fold-away doors to open completely, effectively doubling the living and entertaining area. Addressing initial concerns about the volume of the space within the home's relatively small footprint, Ramsey opted to shiplap the ceiling and surrounding walls of the kitchen's highest portion. This design choice introduced warmth and prevented the area from feeling like a large, sterile white void. The kitchen features rift-cut white oak cabinets from Grabill Custom Cabinets, Cambria Inverness Frost Matte countertops, and a KitchenAid range and hood, combining style, practicality, and comfort. The dining area includes a large handmade table from ClubCu, surrounded by slipcovered chairs that comfortably seat ten. A Vines chandelier from Sonneman adds an organic, nature-inspired touch, balancing the linear elements of the space. Each bedroom in the cabin is an ensuite. The powder room, designed for guests, features Arte's Hover wallpaper with flying cranes, providing a whimsical yet harmonious nod to the lake's wildlife. Custom-made Grabill vanities with leather drawer pulls and an Arteriors mirror complete the space. The second story is dedicated to the owners' three daughters, each having a private ensuite and a shared sitting area. While maintaining the neutral and textural palette of the house, these rooms incorporate soft peach, pink, and blue tones to reflect individual personalities. The primary bedroom serves as a sanctuary, blending modern design elements like a paneled bed wall with soft, welcoming textiles and furnishings. Artwork from Elysian Tree Study Photography integrates the interior with the stunning lake views. The main bathroom features a floating oak vanity and a strategically placed bathtub in a niche, offering sunset views of the lake. Both the upper and lower levels of the home are equipped with distinct porches, each serving different functions. The upper porch, adjacent to the main living area, includes a fireplace and grilling zone. The lower porch, located near the pool and dock, features a bar, a large shaded seating area, and a custom swing. This thoughtful division of outdoor spaces ensures maximum enjoyment of the natural surroundings for various activities. The project successfully blends luxury and comfort with the rustic charm of a lakeside cabin, prioritizing seamless indoor-outdoor living. #LakesideCabin #LuxuryHome #InteriorDesign #RusticModern #IndoorOutdoorLiving #BradRamseyInteriors #HomeTour #SouthCarolina #NaturalMaterials #OpenPlanLiving

The Sandersons, having relocated to Lake Bluff, sought a residence with a water view. In 2019, they acquired a contemporary house overlooking a ravine and Lake Michigan. Despite its 1980s aesthetic, the property's prime location on a desirable lot was the primary appeal. Stacy Sanderson, drawing inspiration from home decor magazines, engaged Morgante Wilson Architects to transform the space. Initially, the plan involved opening walls, but the extent of the necessary renovations led to a complete demolition, with the exception of the foundation. The resulting structure, an Arts and Crafts-style home, replaced the previous greige, silo-shaped building, presenting a series of interconnected boxes framed by a brise soleil that interact with natural light throughout the day. Key design objectives for the Sandersons included strong curb appeal, a clean aesthetic, abundant natural light, and a rich variety of textures within the predominantly black-and-white interior. Elissa Morgante, cofounder of Morgante Wilson Architects, noted Stacy's willingness to embrace textured surfaces while maintaining a contemporary and minimalist feel. Upon entering the foyer, visitors are greeted by a graphic staircase featuring floating slats and a faux-leather railing. The entry floor, made of terrazzo, is partially covered by a mohair rug, and a gray faux-suede coat closet guides guests upstairs. Above this, a bench upholstered in tie-dyed velvet adds another layer of texture. Morgante highlighted the subtle complexity of the design, stating that a closer look reveals a tremendous amount of detail. On the main floor, a floating wall wrapped in grass cloth provides a visual separation, concealing the activities within the open-plan space from the street view. Stacy desired a main floor that fostered togetherness while allowing for individual activities. This expansive area includes a large kitchen equipped with a mirrored breakfast nook, a hidden coffee station, and a pantry. Two screened-in porches are present, one of which features a two-sided fireplace shared with an indoor living room. Brian, an international trader, has a home office, while Stacy, a stay-at-home mom, has a dedicated puzzle table. A second, less formal living room is designed for the comfort of their three tween and teen children. The architects also focused on the private spaces upstairs and in the above-grade basement. The primary bathroom features an integrated counter cabinet for essentials and a seamless shower lined with dimensional tiles. The primary bedroom's walls are adorned with luxurious fabric. The basement houses a guest room with four bunk beds, each equipped with individual electronic tablets, ideal for sleepovers. The mudroom incorporates lockers to keep children's belongings organized, and a shower helps prevent sand and dirt from entering the main house, catering to Stacy's preference for neatness. A central seating area is designed for movie nights, featuring noise-dampening cork and double-layer curtains, creating a comfortable and personalized space for each family member. #HomeDesign #LakeBluffHome #MorganteWilsonArchitects #InteriorDesign #ModernArchitecture #TexturedInteriors #NorthShoreSuburb #CustomHome

When clients purchased a 1956 Saugatuck, Michigan, home situated on Kalamazoo Lake, they were faced with a house that presented a jumble of inconsistent design elements. The architectural style leaned mid-century modern, retaining original details like a butter-yellow washing machine, yet the designers, Liz Hoekzema and Jaci Schipper of KLH Custom Homes, aimed to avoid creating a mere "period piece." Simultaneously, the lakefront location prompted considerations of a more classic cottage aesthetic, characterized by elements such as white shiplap and seagrass rugs. The design team embarked on a renovation that sought to seamlessly blend the home's historical roots with a fresh, contemporary perspective, drawing inspiration from its lakeside setting. Key original features like a central brick fireplace column and stained glass windows were preserved and reinterpreted. To subtly reflect the water, zellige tiles were incorporated in the kitchen and bathroom, mimicking the shimmering surface of the lake, while wavy furniture echoed its gentle ripples. A breezeblock partition and banquette on the lower level were installed to evoke the 1956 architecture, making it appear as if they were inherent to the original design. The layout was reconfigured to accommodate the clients' lifestyle, featuring two distinct kitchen areas. The main level kitchen was designed as a family-friendly space, while a smaller kitchenette on the lower level offers a private retreat for the homeowners. In the main kitchen, a unique attached island and dining table transition from soapstone to wood, providing lake views at counter height. The table's base incorporates a soft, wavy form, further referencing the water. The pantry door features a distinct natural brass push and kick plate, chosen for its resemblance to the sun rising over the lake. Practical solutions were also implemented, such as a tucked-away paper towel holder to maintain a clutter-free countertop. The original stained glass windows, initially a chaotic mix of colors and shapes, were reimagined into a brand-new transom window leading to the office, drawing inspiration from the existing elements. The principal suite, previously dark due to small windows, was transformed with clerestory architecture extending from the bathroom to the closet, maximizing natural light. A design challenge involved the construction of a breezeblock bench integrated into the wall, requiring careful planning for support and code compliance. A meaningful, yet subtle, design detail lies in the sconces of the principal bathroom, which playfully mimic the old, awkward triangular jut-out windows that were removed during the exterior renovation. The bathroom layout itself was rethought to create separate vanity spaces for the couple, with a makeup vanity for the wife and an extended mirror to amplify light. In the small powder room located under the stairs, the angled ceiling was embraced, and storage was maximized with cubbies. A soft, butter-yellow wallpaper and a mirror with a wave motif contribute to a sunny, water-inspired ambiance. For the children's room with twin beds, the designers aimed for a collected, cottage-like feel rather than a overtly new aesthetic. A shift in the ceiling was highlighted by using two different shades of mint green paint, contributing to the room's character. The exterior underwent significant restoration, with existing brick and stone base preserved where possible. The upper level features new LP siding, all painted a uniform color. On the lakeside, a thermally modified deck was installed for low maintenance, and the balcony railing was chosen to resemble a boat railing, offering clean lines and unobstructed views of the lake. #LakeHouseDesign #MidCenturyModern #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #WaterInspiredDesign #SaugatuckMichigan #KitchenDesign #BathroomDesign #CustomHomes

The Kroll family, consisting of Amy, Ryan, their two teenage children, and their golden retriever Rookie, achieved their long-held aspiration of lakefront living with convenient city access by constructing a custom farmhouse-style home on a 4-acre lot on Chanhassen’s Lake Riley. The previous structure on the property was beyond repair due to significant water damage, providing the Krolls with an opportunity to build a new residence tailored to their needs. Amy, a partner at Deloitte, and Ryan, a stay-at-home dad, engaged Boyer Building and Natalie Talley of Talley Jane Interiors to bring their vision to life. The 2,900-square-foot lakefront home was meticulously designed to accommodate the family's current lifestyle, which includes frequent entertaining and hosting, as well as to serve as a welcoming space for their children and future families. A central element of the design is the expansive kitchen, equipped for large gatherings and culinary activities. This space features a French cooktop, multiple ovens, a pot filler, and ample storage for cooking and baking equipment, catering to events such as Thanksgiving dinners and teen get-togethers. The kitchen's design incorporates natural wood tones, a key request from Amy Kroll, featuring hickory floors and white oak in the island and cabinet doors. A distinct blue kitchen, achieved with specialized cabinet colors and a Tile X Design backsplash, provides an elegant and cool aesthetic. Matte HanStone Quartz countertops mimic the appearance of natural stone, while aged-iron Muska Lighting pendants blend rustic and contemporary styles. A unique feature in the kitchen is a library-style ladder, which rolls on a track, providing access to tall cabinets and a pantry. This functional element eliminates the need for step stools and adds a stylish touch, alongside reeded glass cabinets for dishes and barware, and a built-in wine fridge. A double Wolf oven allows for simultaneous cooking at different temperatures. Maximizing space was a priority, leading to the inclusion of a hidden storage area referred to as a “hobbit hole,” ideal for bulk spices and less frequently used items. Furthermore, the design addresses the practical needs of pet ownership with a custom pet spa in the mudroom. This feature is essential for cleaning Rookie and the family's sandy feet after lake activities, providing a dedicated space to manage the mess often associated with lakeside living and an energetic dog. The mudroom also includes storage solutions for sports equipment and seasonal gear, ensuring an organized environment. A thoughtful detail is the integrated cutout in the kitchen island for Rookie's dog bowls, preventing accidental spills. The island itself, while appearing to have small drawers, cleverly conceals trash pullouts and a raiser for a stand mixer, showcasing efficient and discreet storage solutions. The home is intended to be a long-term residence, designed to adapt to the family's evolving needs over time. #FarmhouseStyle #NewConstruction #LakefrontLiving #InteriorDesign #KitchenDesign #CustomHome #PetFriendlyDesign #FamilyHome #Chanhassen

This article showcases a lakeside vacation home in New Hampshire, designed by interior designer Nina Farmer for a Boston-based family of five. The property, spanning 1.6 acres, serves as a year-round retreat from their primary residence, approximately two hours away. The family, including three teenagers, is highly active, engaging in daily lake swims and mountain climbing, and the home's interior design reflects this relaxed and engaged lifestyle. The 5,400-square-foot main house, completed last year, was conceived by Cambridge-based architecture firm Charles R. Myer & Partners. Constructed from red cedar in a Shingle-Style, it features a screened-in wrap-around porch and offers picturesque lake views. The design intentionally blends with the local vernacular, avoiding the feel of a massive new construction and instead aiming for a cozy atmosphere. Farmer emphasizes that the interior design was carefully curated to extend this sense of belonging and comfort. Farmer’s design philosophy for the three-bedroom, three-bathroom property, which also includes a second-story bunk room and an additional full bathroom, began with selecting rugs as foundational elements. She typically incorporates a mix of new and vintage pieces; sofas are generally new additions, while accessories and side chairs are often vintage. This approach ensures that the home feels lived-in and functional rather than merely decorative. The great room, a central feature of the home, is designed around a custom rug by Farmer. It combines modern items, such as a 1960s French Pierre Chapo leather chair, with aesthetic movement stools and rustic pottery. Custom elements include a tufted sofa from Farmer’s studio, wall sconces from Jamb, and a Bogart cocktail table from Shoppe Amber Interiors. The room also boasts two monumental stone fireplaces, with the family personally selecting the stones. A long window seat in the great room provides a dedicated space for reading and relaxation, offering direct views of the lake. The dining room, designed to be less formal, accommodates ten guests at a custom table, complemented by aesthetic-style chairs upholstered in Jennifer Shorto fabric. A custom-designed rug by Farmer anchors this space, highlighting her focus on tactile materials that promote a simpler, disconnected lifestyle. Lighting fixtures in the dining room include parchment and iron pendants from Roman Thomas and a leather console from BDDW. The kitchen is functional and approachable, featuring a lower ceiling and cabinetry painted in Studio Green by Farrow & Ball. Moroccan Zellige tile clads the wall behind the sink, illuminated by handmade ceramic pendant lights from Natalie Page. The study is described as a cozy, boat-like room, designed to be enveloping and snug. It houses a Dmitriy & Co. sofa, chairs from Nickey Kehoe, a 1960 Guillerme et Chambron cocktail table, a vintage midcentury Swedish pendant by Erik Höglund, and a vintage Moroccan rug. Each of the primary bedrooms offers lake views, providing a tranquil retreat. Furnishings include a standing lamp by Jacques Adnet, a ceramic lamp by Danny Kaplan Studio, a bed from Shoppe Amber Interiors, and an oversize pillow in Zak+Fox fabric, with a Moroccan flat-weave rug on the floor. The primary bathroom features a freestanding bathtub and fixtures from Drummonds, a pendant light from Jamb, and a vintage flat-weave rug, reflecting a blend of elevation and simplicity. Another bathroom is characterized by its rustic charm, with yellow Moroccan tiles in the shower and on the walls, complemented by Jasper’s Corsica wallpaper. It includes a pedestal sink from Waterworks and a Double Bubble light fixture from Olampia. The children's bedrooms, though not overly large, incorporate Dutch doors to foster an indoor-outdoor connection. These rooms are furnished with Rose Tarlow beds, a vintage armchair upholstered in Jennifer Shorto fabric, window treatments from Lisa Fine Textiles, and vintage Kilim rugs. The bunk room, designed for hosting multiple guests, features single wrought-iron beds from Cottage Home Shoppe, Pendleton blankets, and a mix of 19th- and 20th-century dressers. The floor is painted in Farrow & Ball’s Indian Yellow, and all light fixtures are from Urban Archaeology. The expansive porch, a favorite space for the family year-round, epitomizes indoor-outdoor living with a custom-built porch swing, lighting from Urban Electric, and furnishings from Bielecky Brothers and Hollywood at Home. #InteriorDesign #LakeHouse #NewHampshire #NinaFarmer #VacationHome #ShingleStyle #CozyInteriors #VintageFurniture #HomeDecor

The article details the design and concept behind a Michigan lake house, envisioned as a generational gathering place for a family of five. The property, acquired spontaneously by the husband, previously contained seven rudimentary cabins, which influenced the new architectural approach. The owners, who had a strong connection to the lake from years of vacationing in a nearby cabin, sought a home that felt authentic, aged, and embraced the natural, rugged beauty of its heavily treed peninsula location with 270-degree lake views. The wife, initially imagining a traditional white frame house with green shutters, embraced a grittier, older aesthetic that complemented the unique landscape. Architect Matt Rossetti of Detroit-based Rossetti, known for large-scale commercial projects, collaborated on the residential design, creating a structure composed of four distinct "cabins." Each cabin features a different vernacular, such as clapboard, shake, lathe, and board-and-batten, all connected to a main lodge via contemporary breezeways. These breezeways, characterized by concrete floors, abundant glass, and steel, introduce a modern edge to the otherwise rustic design. Interior designer Amy Meier was integral from the project's inception, focusing on materials, finishes, and furnishings that exuded age and character. The core directive from the wife was that "almost nothing could be new; the rustier and crustier the better," aiming for a look reminiscent of a grandmother's lake house from 70 years prior. This philosophy was realized through the incorporation of reclaimed cedar from the original cabins in the bunkhouse, as well as French white oak floors, salvaged beams, and barn wood cladding sourced from a local heritage wood purveyor. Meier strategically combined stone and wood with glass and steel to achieve a balance that feels both ancient and contemporary. Specific design choices underscore this aesthetic, such as bandsawn knotty white oak kitchen cabinets, chosen for their ability to develop a rich patina over time. The kitchen island, painted deep green, is topped with walnut milled from a downed tree on the contractor's parents' property and features displays of splatterware and copperware collected from across Michigan. The fireplace, a significant design element, blends a timber header with brick sides and a blackened steel surround, carefully designed to be asymmetrical yet harmonious. Instead of traditional art, the home emphasizes family photos, further personalizing the space. For the guest wing, walls were constructed to conceal insulation behind unfinished two-by-fours and planks, echoing the raw simplicity of the original cabins. The overarching goal was to create a newly built home that seamlessly integrated into its surroundings and appeared to have existed for generations. This commitment to aged authenticity was notably confirmed when a window treatment installer commented on the house's apparent age, apologizing for potential misalignments. The homeowners expressed satisfaction with the design, noting its "funky" and "a little off" character, which perfectly aligns with their desire for a simple, relaxing retreat away from life's complexities. #LakeHouseDesign #RusticPatina #AmyMeierDesign #MichiganArchitecture #TimewornCharacter #ReclaimedMaterials #GenerationalHome #InteriorDesign #ArchitecturalVernacular

A lake house is more than just a dwelling; it's a sanctuary designed for relaxation, memory-making, and rejuvenation. While a scenic view of the water is a primary draw, the interior decor plays a crucial role in enhancing this tranquil atmosphere. The aesthetic choices for a lake house can range from nautical and subtly themed to modern and sophisticated, catering to various personal preferences while emphasizing comfort and connection to nature. One effective decorating strategy involves incorporating outdoor adventure elements into the interior. For instance, kayak paddles can be creatively used as a design feature, such as a headboard, to instill a rustic yet nautical ambiance without overwhelming the space. This approach subtly ties the indoor environment to the outdoor activities associated with lake life. Maximizing the lake view is paramount. Incorporating abundant seating near windows, like window seats, allows residents and guests to fully appreciate the natural surroundings. Such seating areas become ideal spots for leisurely activities like reading, offering both comfort and an uninterrupted connection to the picturesque landscape. These additions can also be relatively simple DIY projects, contributing to a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Indoor-outdoor living is another key aspect of lake house design. Transitional spaces, such as patios, porches, and sunrooms, should be designed to extend living areas and embrace the natural environment year-round. Converting a screened-in porch into an all-season room, for example, allows for continuous enjoyment of the outdoors, regardless of the weather, enhancing the overall functionality and appeal of the property. A classic nautical theme remains a popular choice for lake houses. This can be achieved through a color palette of navy and white, which offers a timeless and elegant look. Navy, in particular, is practical for a lakeside setting as it effectively conceals dirt while still providing a warm and welcoming feel. This theme can be integrated into various rooms, from entryways to living spaces. Even for those who prefer a less overtly themed decor, small, tasteful details can add character. A themed welcome mat or subtle lake-inspired accents can enhance the home's aesthetic without resorting to overly kitschy elements, maintaining a sophisticated yet thematic appeal. For lake houses nestled in wooded areas, a cabin-inspired style offers a cohesive design. This can involve heavy wooden furniture and the imaginative use of elements like canoe paddles as wall art, creating a cozy, chalet-like atmosphere that complements the natural surroundings. Outdoor living can be significantly enhanced with amenities like an outdoor bar. Converting an old shed into a functional and inviting bar area provides a dedicated space for entertaining and enjoying the waterfront views, fostering a vibrant social environment. Accommodating guests is often a priority in a lake house. Maximizing sleeping arrangements, particularly in areas like attics, by utilizing twin beds or loft beds, ensures ample space for visitors, especially families with children. This practical consideration enhances the home's capacity for hospitality. Finally, the design should prioritize and frame the most stunning feature: the lake view itself. Living spaces with expansive lake views should be the focal point of the home, drawing attention to the natural beauty outside. In such spaces, the emphasis can shift from traditional entertainment like televisions to activities that encourage conversation, relaxation, and appreciation of the surroundings, such as reading or simply enjoying the vista. Furthermore, making the lake house dog-friendly, whether for personal use or rentals, caters to pet owners and reinforces the idea of a welcoming, inclusive retreat for all family members, including four-legged ones. #LakeHouseDecor #WaterfrontEscape #NauticalTheme #IndoorOutdoorLiving #CabinStyle #GuestReady #DogFriendlyDesign #WindowSeating #OutdoorBar #HomeDecorIdeas

This article highlights the creation of a 7,812-square-foot dream home on Maxwell Bay of Lake Minnetonka in Orono, Minnesota. The homeowners, having previously resided in several lakefront properties, sought a contemporary design that harmonized with rustic materials, reflecting the natural surroundings. Architect Peter Eskuche of Eskuche Associates was commissioned for the design, with construction handled by Stonewood, LLC. The resulting aesthetic is termed 'mountain-modern,' characterized by clean lines, a low-pitch roof, and the incorporation of reclaimed barn-wood siding, cor-ten steel, and other dark metal accents. The entrance of the home features a grand 10-foot-tall door, opening into interior spaces that blend metal, glass, and wood, further enhanced by reclaimed timbers and stone. A notable architectural element is a stone-clad wall that bisects the house, creating steel-framed openings from the foyer to the main living areas. Within the gathering room, a steel and glass wine cellar serves both a functional and artistic purpose. A steel staircase with substantial wood treads connects the three levels of the residence, complemented by a glass and steel elevator for accessibility. Interior designer Annie Graunke of Studio M focused on incorporating beautiful woods with distinct grains to introduce warmth into the expansive, open-plan home. The design maintains straight lines while integrating plush textures and materials, creating subtle parallels between the furniture and the architectural elements. The kitchen, which flows into the dining and gathering spaces, boasts custom brown-stained, vertical grain, clear oak cabinets and marble countertops, including a waterfall edge on the island. Sliding glass doors in the kitchen lead to a versatile porch equipped with a wood-burning fireplace, infrared ceiling heaters, an outdoor kitchen with a grill, and automated screens and vinyl shades, facilitating year-round outdoor living. Upstairs, the home accommodates private bedrooms and bathrooms for the daughters. The master suite features a fireplace and a glass door that opens onto a deck with an outdoor gas fireplace. The master bathroom is appointed with stone vanities and a glass shower. The lower level includes a fitness room, a bathroom with a sauna, a guest suite, and a linear fireplace with a blackened steel surround and a floor-to-ceiling Cambria wall. A multi-panel glass Marvin door provides access to the pool deck, which offers views of the lake. Sven Gustafson, president and CEO of Stonewood, LLC, noted that the home embodies the couple's long-held dreams and travel-inspired ideas, meticulously integrated into a residence tailored to their lifestyle and aesthetic preferences. This property was also featured on Midwest Home's 2018 Luxury Home Tour, with sponsors including Andersen Windows & Doors and Phantom Screens. #LakesideHome #LuxuryHomeTour #MountainModernDesign #StonewoodLLC #EskucheDesign #LakeMinnetonka #ContemporaryArchitecture #RusticMaterials #OronoRealEstate

Tiburon Bay View, a contemporary residence on the eastern edge of California's Tiburon Peninsula, was designed by Walker Warner Architects for a family with a strong appreciation for art and nature. The clients sought a spacious home suitable for entertaining and multi-generational living, with sweeping views of the San Francisco Bay. To mitigate the visual impact of the 12,000-square-foot structure, the architects terraced the two-story property into the hillside, giving it the appearance of a compound composed of low-slung horizontal volumes. The design incorporates a natural material palette and extensive high-performance glazing to seamlessly integrate the home with its surroundings. Materials such as Aegean limestone, western red cedar, zinc, and board-formed concrete contribute to this integration. Interior designer Nicole Hollis further enhanced the indoor/outdoor connection through a minimalist approach, employing surface materials and custom furnishings that echo the exterior's palette. Rift-sawn, white-oak wall paneling and engineered European oak flooring add warmth to the modern interior. The home was also designed to complement the clients' extensive contemporary art collection, featuring pieces like a custom bronze divider by Michele Oka Doner and pendant lighting fixtures by Lindsey Adelman Studio. The main residence is oriented towards the bay views and split across two levels. The ground floor houses the primary living areas and an accessible in-law bedroom, while the master suite and a second bedroom are located upstairs. An additional guest wing provides two more bedrooms. Large glass doors from Fleetwood Windows & Doors in the great room blur the lines between indoor and outdoor spaces, facilitating an open and connected living experience. The master bedroom, with a Holly Hunt walnut bed, offers impressive bay views, and the master bath features custom teak cabinetry and Aged Petit Granit counters. A unique touch for the clients' teenage son includes a colorful bedroom with an elevated bed and a small climbing wall. Sustainability and energy efficiency were central to the home's design. A passive solar approach was implemented, featuring large roof overhangs over glass walls, automated solar shades, and an emphasis on natural ventilation. Radiant heating is installed throughout the home, complemented by Energy Star appliances, low-flow fixtures, LED lighting, and occupancy sensors. To conserve water, a native, drought-resistant planting plan with sensor-controlled drip irrigation was designed by SCDA and Strata Landscape Architecture, limiting the lawn area to less than 10 percent of the landscape. Photovoltaic panels have been installed at the pool house, further contributing to the home's energy independence. The architects highlighted that the residence's bold architectural elements create unexpected spaces, fulfilling the clients' desire for a home that celebrates both art and nature. #TiburonBayView #WalkerWarnerArchitects #EnergyConsciousHome #WaterfrontProperty #SustainableDesign #IndoorOutdoorLiving #ModernArchitecture #NorthernCaliforniaHomes #PassiveSolarDesign

Perched on the serene edge of Squam Lake in New Hampshire, this weekend retreat, designed by Nina Farmer in collaboration with Charles R. Myer & Partners, epitomizes a nostalgic 'summer camp' aesthetic, offering a timeless escape from modern technology. The clients, a couple with teenage children from Boston, sought a tranquil haven for swimming, hiking, and reading, approximately a two-hour drive from their primary residence. Their frequent use of the lake, even during initial site meetings, underscored their desire for a deep connection with nature. The property's design adheres strictly to local building regulations, which mandate a long and low footprint to ensure the home blends seamlessly into the mountainous landscape and preserves the lake's natural beauty. This limitation resulted in a predominantly single-story structure, with only a bunk room situated at the top. The house features a shingle-style exterior, harmonizing with its surroundings and reflecting the area's historical association with academic families from Harvard who traditionally used the lake for camping and recreational activities. Nina Farmer's interior design approach began with the curation of rugs, many of which were custom-made, establishing a foundational color palette early in the design process. The living room, flanked by two large stone fireplaces and offering expansive lake views through numerous windows, was designed for comfort and relaxation, featuring a long upholstered seat ideal for reading. The home intentionally minimizes technology, with only one screen located in a small den, fostering an environment where activities like games, puzzles, and listening to records are prioritized. The bunk room, located upstairs, is designed for multi-generational use, with beds that can be reconfigured to accommodate entire families, evoking the communal feel of a summer camp dormitory. An additional guest house is situated above a separate barn on the property. The design incorporates a porch swing, inspired by the female client's childhood home, further enhancing the nostalgic theme. To complement the extensive use of pine paneling throughout the interiors, Farmer strategically introduced saturated colors such as indigo, reds, and ochres. This choice aimed to add depth and warmth, counteracting any potential lightness or fluffiness, and creating a cozier atmosphere through the interplay of color and pattern. Local reclaimed granite was utilized for the fireplaces, grounding the design in its regional context. The large sitting room, characterized by its vaulted pine ceiling, extends to a screened porch that is functional year-round. Given that the clients brought few personal belongings, every item was carefully selected. Farmer integrated pieces from both English sources, like Drummonds and Jamb, and local inspirations from the lake, ensuring that the furniture struck a balance between plush sophistication and relaxed comfort. The kitchen features simple Shaker-style cabinetry in walnut, pine, and green, enhanced by cast bronze handles that are both beautiful and understated. Open shelving allows for easy access to crockery and glassware. The interior curation also includes needlework quilts, traditional Welsh blankets, carved Alpine furniture, and local granite, all contributing to a "gemütlich" mood reminiscent of an Austrian chalet. The overall design successfully creates an alluring, technology-free retreat, promising a complete escape for its inhabitants. #NewHampshireHome #LakesideRetreat #SummerCampInspired #InteriorDesign #NostalgicDecor #ShingleStyleArchitecture #RusticElegance #TechFreeLiving #CustomRugs