Embrace Nature In This Home On The Hills of Lake Michigan

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

This article highlights the design and interior styling of a newly built house on Victoria’s Mornington Peninsula, dubbed ‘Muskoka,’ which takes inspiration from Canadian lake houses while incorporating a coastal edge. Interior designer Kate Walker of KWD led the design, collaborating with builder and developer Adam Magnus of Magnus Construction. The project aimed to create a luxurious yet nostalgic aesthetic, blending robust materials with sophisticated interiors. Kate Walker's vision for the home was heavily influenced by the Muskoka region in Ontario, Canada, a serene lakes district known for its natural beauty and celebrity vacationers. Walker, who has always admired North American architecture, saw parallels between Muskoka's landscape and the view across Port Phillip Bay from the Mornington Peninsula site. This inspiration guided her in crafting a design that evoked a sense of both countryside and water, moving beyond typical coastal themes to a lake-inspired palette. The homeowner, Adam Magnus, trusted Walker's expertise, having worked with her on numerous previous projects. Together, they aimed for a “nostalgic sort of aesthetic with punchy interiors.” The property, which was acquired in 2023 after being razed, was developed with a view to sell, making luxury a key focus due to its prime location near the beach and shops. The construction and design process spanned 12 months, resulting in a four-bedroom home. Walker incorporated earthy colors like camel and terracotta throughout the interiors, complementing them with various shades of blue to reflect a lakeside environment rather than a typical seaside one. The choice of materials emphasized durability and elegance, featuring hardwood joinery, travertine stone, and retro wallpaper. These elements contributed to a cabin-like sensibility while maintaining a modern, refined look. For instance, the main living area features walls painted in Dulux Snowy Mountains Half, a pendant light from The Montauk Lighting Co., and a hearth made of Blue Roma quartzite. The floors are Bridgeport European oak, all supplied by KWD&Co., and the space includes a Jetmaster fireplace, a Molmic sofa, and a Coco Republic coffee table. Artworks by Baden Croft and soft furnishings from Macey & Moore and Hali rugs complete the inviting atmosphere. Key areas of the home showcase this distinctive style. The open-plan living, dining, and kitchen area feature blue cabinetry by Farmers Doors, a Navona travertine island benchtop, and pendant lighting from The Montauk Lighting Co. The butler’s pantry continues this theme with joinery painted in Porter’s Paints Squid Ink, a Mystic Blue stone benchtop, and gold-finished tapware from Astra Walker. In the bathrooms, Navona travertine and various stone tiles are used for benchtops and floors, creating a cohesive, upscale feel. The primary suite, described as having “main character energy,” is designed as a private, cocooning space with a distinct color scheme and tone, differing from the rest of the house. Its ensuite, which offers views of the garden and pool, features dual Blue Roma quartzite benchtops, teal paint, and a freestanding Victoria + Albert bathtub. The landscape design was handled by Heath Blair of Plume Studio, while Adam’s wife, Jessica, curated the furniture, artwork, and decor. The finished home is characterized by its textural layers and spacious yet intimate feel. Kate Walker noted that the home is acoustically treated, with every surface, from linen curtains to textured carpet, carefully selected to create a quiet and peaceful environment. The thoughtful layout allows for both connection and separation within the living spaces, contributing to the overall sense of a serene lakeside retreat. The article concludes with the builder's positive sentiment about the home's special feel and natural light, emphasizing its ability to wrap around the occupants, much like an idyllic holiday home. #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #MorningtonPeninsula #LakeHouseStyle #NorthAmericanInfluence #CoastalLiving #KateWalkerDesign #LuxuryInteriors #MuskokaInspired #AustralianHomes

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

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

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

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 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 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

The town of Saugatuck, Michigan, a popular Lake Michigan beach town, experiences a relaxed atmosphere during the off-season. This year, the Wickwood Inn introduced "The Bungalow," a new rental option designed for cozy, year-round stays. The Bungalow, a three-bedroom detached guest house, features a fireplace, a full kitchen, and access to the Wickwood Inn’s amenities, including a serene pool, spa, and English garden-style grounds. Its proximity to the historic inn and a newly converted pool house, which was once the inn's garage and now hosts movie nights and corporate retreats, provides guests with comprehensive services. The Wickwood Inn, established in 1981, was originally the Colonial Revival home of Saugatuck's former mayor, Frank Wicks. In 2021, new owners Shea Soucie and Martin Horner revitalized the property, subsequently earning it a spot on USA Today’s list of the top 10 bed and breakfasts in the country, where it ranked No. 5 as the only Michigan venue. The Inn's location at 510 Butler St. offers easy access to the Kalamazoo River and Lake Michigan, allowing guests to explore the natural beauty of the area, such as Saugatuck Dunes State Park. Horner emphasizes that the "shoulder season" provides a tranquil period for guests to rejuvenate. The Bungalow itself underwent a complete renovation, retaining only its original staircase, but revealing historical elements like vodka boxes used as insulation and burn scars from a past fire, which Horner noted added to its charm. The interior of The Bungalow, curated by Soucie Horner Design Collective, features fixtures from local Saugatuck art and antique shops, many of which are available for purchase by guests. The Inn prioritizes guest comfort with luxurious Vispring mattresses, made from natural materials like fleece wool and cotton. Culinary offerings, including a seasonal white-tablecloth breakfast and afternoon tea with homemade sweets, highlight West Michigan agriculture. Executive Chef Rose Duong, a veteran of Chicago's restaurant scene, was recently appointed general manager and is expected to become a prominent personality at the inn. During fall retreats, Duong collaborates with local producers like Modales Winery and New Holland for curated tastings. Both The Wickwood Inn and The Bungalow are adults-only establishments. The Bungalow can accommodate up to six adults in its three suites, while the main inn offers 11 rooms. The entire property, including both the inn and The Bungalow, can be rented for larger groups, accommodating up to 28 guests for events such as family reunions, wedding parties, and corporate retreats. Booking information is available on the Wickwood Inn's website. #SaugatuckMichigan #WickwoodInn #TheBungalow #LakeMichigan #BedAndBreakfast #TravelMichigan #LuxuryTravel #OffSeasonTravel #Hospitality

The article details the design process and features of a new cottage in Deephaven, Minnesota, designed by Kate Regan of The Sitting Room. This 6,000-square-foot, six-bedroom residence, built in 2024, serves as a summer retreat for a family maintaining ties to Minnesota, specifically near Lake Minnetonka in the Cottagewood neighborhood. The overarching design goal was to blend traditional cottage charm with modern conveniences, resulting in a classic, timeless, and comfortable home. Key design elements contributing to the home's aesthetic include warm white oak floors and beams, a variety of wallpapers, and extensive millwork. The architectural design, handled by Kathryn Alexander and Tom Flint of Alexander Design Group, aimed to integrate the new build seamlessly with the historic Cottagewood community, drawing inspiration from classic window and roof shapes to ensure it harmonized with neighboring homes. A significant feature is the home's sunroom, designed for extensive outdoor living, blurring the lines between indoor and outdoor spaces. This room, with dramatic shiplapped woodwork, overlooks the pool and features a custom-built sectional upholstered in durable indoor-outdoor fabric. Accordion doors and a phantom screen allow for adaptable use, providing the feel of a screened-in porch when desired. The outdoor entertaining space further extends to a well-appointed area behind the fireplace, which includes a full walk-up bar with a sink, refrigeration, icemaker, and ample beverage storage. This area is complemented by a half bath with laundry facilities for pool convenience and an outdoor shower. Inside, the kitchen is characterized by a gleaming white Lacanche range, marble, and white oak materials, creating an open and inviting atmosphere. A buffet wall with glass fronts mimics custom furniture, and the design incorporates kid-friendly features like snack basket drawers in the pantry. These personalized details reflect the full-service approach of The Sitting Room, an Excelsior-based interior design firm known for its commitment to quality and creating personal, inviting spaces. The primary suite exemplifies precision in design with picture frame molding, built-in cabinetry, and motorized drapery panels with blackout lining for a hotel-like experience. The suite includes separate his-and-hers bathrooms and closets, with her closet featuring blush-colored cabinetry and cane inserts, and an integrated dressing table. The millwork throughout the home aims to give it an authentic feel, suggesting it has been enjoyed by families for generations. A notable family-friendly feature is the bunkroom, designed to resemble a secret clubhouse or vintage sleepaway camp, complete with twin beds on a platform, larger beds, couches, and an elongated trough sink, ideal for playful activities and slumber parties. Exterior details reinforce the cottage charm, including a white-picket fence and white-painted arbors that frame the home and enhance the idyllic neighborhood setting. The collaborative effort involved The Sitting Room as the interior designer, Alexander Design Group as the architect, and Harrison Custom Builders, led by David Eggert, for construction. The project successfully created a timeless and authentic summer cottage designed for a family to make lasting memories, emphasizing comfort and a seamless blend of tradition and modern functionality. #LakeMinnetonkaCottage #InteriorDesign #TheSittingRoom #AlexanderDesignGroup #HarrisonCustomBuilders #CottageStyle #Deephaven #LuxuryHomeDesign

Megan and Tyler Duncan, residing in Shakopee with their three young children, aspired to create a year-round lake retreat on Bone Lake in Luck, Wisconsin, near Tyler's parents' cabin. Their vision for the new home included ample shoreline views, a wooded lot, and an interior that would seamlessly blend the outdoors with natural materials and expansive windows. The couple sought a cozy and comfortable environment, with the kitchen as a central gathering space, alongside various quiet nooks for individual relaxation. In 2013, an existing one-room cabin adjacent to Tyler's parents' property became available, prompting the Duncans to accelerate their plans. The Duncans enlisted a collaborative team: Stonewood in Wayzata for design, B & H Builders in Cushing, Wisconsin, for construction, and Martha O’Hara Interiors in St. Louis Park for interior design and furnishings. The 5,000-square-foot home, completed in 2016, exemplifies rustic sophistication, incorporating reclaimed millwork, natural stone, and an airy, neutral color scheme. Martha O’Hara highlighted the textural and natural construction materials throughout the house, particularly the reclaimed barn wood used in the living room, dining room, and kitchen. These three open-plan rooms are unified by reclaimed wood beams, posts, and ceilings. A river rock fireplace in the living room complements the ceiling beams, while the kitchen features a hearth-like surround for the range. An open-weave rope chandelier above the dining table and wicker kitchen stools introduce additional natural textures. To prevent the windowless kitchen from feeling enclosed, interior designers Kristy Conlin, Andrea Surtel, and Bhavana Bhimavarapu opted for crisp white subway tiles on some walls and open shelving in place of upper cabinets, creating a spacious and light aesthetic. A dark gray soapstone island and hickory and oak cabinets add contrasting colors and textures, balancing the rugged beams. The adjacent hearth room, built with wood reclaimed from a shed on the property, offers a practical space for children. A screen porch with a fireplace provides an ideal spot for relaxation and enjoying lake and wood views. The family room, featuring plaid, wool, fur, and reclaimed wood accents, offers a warm setting for movie nights. The house includes four bedrooms, with the master bedroom serving as a private retreat, complete with a natural stone fireplace, white wood panels, and a balcony overlooking the lake. The home also caters to children with a reading nook in the attic and a secret fort accessible through a child-sized door in one bedroom. The basement provides ample entertainment options, including video games, ping-pong, and movies, along with a guest bedroom and a spacious bunk room. Throughout the residence, wood is integrated with varied designs and finishes, such as blue-stained panels in one bathroom, horizontal striping in another, and log walls with chinking in the foyer. The design team aimed to give each space a distinct identity while maintaining overall coherence, ensuring material integrity and suitability for each area. The Duncans utilize the cabin year-round, finding it a favorite place for family and friends, offering both communal areas and individual spaces for relaxation, making it a true retreat. #RusticDesign #LakeHome #InteriorDesign #ReclaimedWood #NaturalMaterials #FamilyRetreat #WisconsinArchitecture #Stonewood #MarthaOHaraInteriors

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

The article showcases a modern lakeside pool house in Gallatin, New York, designed to accommodate four generations of a family and their guests. The initial vision for the property was a family escape, particularly during the pandemic when four generations resided together in the main house, built in 2017 by Carol Kurth Architecture. This led to the development of a separate, expansive pool house, also serving as a guest house, to meet the diverse needs of a large, multi-generational family and their community-oriented lifestyle. The design process involved a collaborative effort with Bedford-based designers Carol Kurth, AIA, Hilary Matt, and builder David Penny of East Mountain Construction Management. Gabby, one of the homeowners' daughters, played a key role in overseeing the construction. The inspiration for the pool house stemmed from a long-standing family tradition of gathering at a lake house, a tradition Gabby's father, who grew up in South Africa, sought to continue after purchasing the Columbia County property nearly three decades ago. The pool house complements the main residence while integrating with its natural surroundings, emphasizing a more casual and adventurous design approach suitable for a second home. The pool house's layout prioritizes ease of access and functionality for large groups. It features a unique design without a traditional front door, instead offering "wet-dry footpaths" that lead into a mudroom or through the pool bathroom. The mudroom is equipped with cubbies for storage and laundry facilities for wet towels. This area seamlessly transitions into the main entertaining space, characterized by vaulted ceilings and expansive glass doors that open onto a covered outdoor seating area, fostering a continuous indoor-outdoor experience. A notable playful element is a rock-climbing wall that extends from beyond the mudroom into the living room, appealing to children. Durability and child-friendliness were central to the interior design choices. High-quality vinyl flooring, mimicking wood, was installed to withstand water and heavy use. Furniture, such as the Verellen living room sofas, are covered in outdoor fabric, ensuring easy cleaning of spills. A chalkboard-covered pocket door separates the bedroom wing from the main living space, adding another interactive element. The bunk room, designed by Kurth and Matt, features timeless navy hues and full-size beds to accommodate guests of all ages. For children, the room includes monkey bars that span a wall and across the ceiling, along with individual Sazerac Stitches sconces by each bed. The primary bedroom offers a luxurious retreat, featuring a plush bed from Muskoka Living, Kelly Wearstler side tables, Allied Maker alabaster sconces, a Katy Skelton bench, and Matouk linens. Its design incorporates extensive glass, providing views of the woods and lake, creating a treehouse-like ambiance with modern comforts. The primary bathroom continues this theme with a floor-to-ceiling slot window in the shower. Art curated by Gabby's mother, a former Guggenheim curator, is integrated throughout the house, including pieces from her personal collection and abstract works created by a family friend in collaboration with Gabby's brother. The outdoor spaces are equally integral to the family's entertaining, with an outdoor kitchen added by the pool and a sun shelf in the Wagner Pools-installed pool. The surrounding landscape by Biasin Landscape features bluestone pavers and wood planks, mirroring the house's modern aesthetic. #LakesideLiving #PoolHouseDesign #MultiGenerationalHome #FamilyEscape #ArchitecturalDesign #InteriorDesign #OutdoorLiving #ModernHome

This article explores a mountain home featuring three distinct outdoor patios, each meticulously designed to maximize outdoor living and capitalize on the spectacular views. The design team, Curated Nest cofounders Erin Coren and Lina Galvão, drew inspiration from various global aesthetics to give each patio a unique character. The first, a cooking deck located near the kitchen, incorporates American cabin vibes. It features a black matte Zwilling Flammkraft grill with stainless steel side drawers, complemented by a creamy, copper-veined Dekton Onirika fireproof hood and backsplash, chosen as a statement stone for the compact space. The eating area on this deck leans into Americana, showcasing a blue plaid, slipcovered dining bench, a weather-resistant expandable wood table, and vintage ladder-back chairs purchased for a minimal cost. Navajo-influenced fabric drum ottomans provide additional, space-efficient seating. The upper patio at the back of the house is inspired by the vibrant atmosphere of Marrakech. This space is characterized by layered daybeds, woven chairs made from various materials, and an assortment of rugs and pillows, creating a rich, textural environment. Conversely, the lower deck draws its aesthetic from the old-world charm of Italy’s Lake Como. This area is designed with tailored modernity, infused with playful elements. The article highlights the specific furnishings and materials used across all three patios. For the upper patio, daybed swings from Serena & Lily are customized with Fabricut bench covers and numerous pillows. A mirror from Wayfair, vintage chairs, and hanging baskets from Labpiecesign contribute to the decor. Pillow fabrics are sourced from Fabricut and Wayfair Professional. The Marrakech-inspired corner includes a swivel chair from Lee Industries, drapery from Stroheim, a woven vase from Currey & Co, and rugs from Fibreworks and Surya. The railing throughout is by Feeney. For the lower deck and cooking deck, the design incorporates a checkerboard rug, stone pedestals, café tables, and chaise seating. Drapery is from Fabricut, hanging flowers from Labpiecesign, and lounges and ottomans are from Lee Industries. The table and chairs are from Serena & Lily, while pedestals and a lantern are from Wayfair Professional. Rugs are from Wayfair Professional (top) and Fibreworks (base). The dining area on the cooking deck is furnished with Lee Industries ottomans and bench, a chandelier from Visual Comfort & Co, a table and rug from Serena & Lily, and vintage chairs. The Zwilling Flammkraft grill, in matte black, features a Cosentino Dekton Onirika hood cover and backsplash, with Feeney railings completing the outdoor spaces. #HomeDesign #OutdoorSpaces #PatioDesign #MountainHome #InteriorDesign #CuratedNest #AmericanaStyle #MoroccanInfluence #LakeComoInspired

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