lake home architecture Archives

Stark Beauty: A Charred Cedar Home Honors Its Lake Michigan Landscape

Posted on October 23, 2023October 23, 2023 Jeanne Delathouder

Architecture: Desai Chia Architecture PC, New York, NY, and Environment Architects, Traverse City, MI
Landscape Architecture: Tim Kirby, Surfacedesign, Inc., San Francisco, CA
Custom Furniture and Cabinetry: Woodbine Inc., Suttons Bay, MI (231) 271-3998
Photography: Paul Warchol, Paul Warchol Photography, Erwinna, PA

exterior charred cedar home on Lake Michigan

Perched on a bluff overlooking Lake Michigan, this sublime charred cedar–clad home on the northern end of the Leelanau Peninsula sits in an enviable position between the shoreline and an old cherry farm. The 17-acre property stretches across a forested swath believed to have been left in place by the original cherry farmers to buffer water spray and lake winds from the orchard grounds. But for a modern Detroit family of five who love to cook and enjoy time together—yet also appreciate quiet time alone—these storied grounds became the preferred site for their lakeside refuge and an homage to the wooded landscape.

Designed in collaboration with Desai Chia Architecture PC, based in New York City, and Environment Architects of Traverse City, MI, the dwelling forms a 4,800-square-foot assemblage of three offset structures that play off each other in the most organic fashion. “The gathering structure contains the living room, kitchen, and a covered ‘vista’ seating terrace,” says Katherine Chia, FAIA, a founding principal at Desai Chia Architecture, who, with fellow firm principal Arjun Desai partnered with an architectural team that included Ray Kendra, AIA, principal at Environment Architects. “The two ‘sleeping’ structures house the primary bedroom suite and three bedrooms for the couple’s grown children. A dining area breezeway connects all three structures for a seamless flow.”

Preserving the Past

Exterior view of charred cedar home with reflections of the lake and landscape in windows

By employing a technique called shou sugi ban—a traditional Japanese method of charring wood so it becomes rot-resistant and bug-resistant—the architectural team and homeowners clad the home’s exterior in charred cedar. The preferred material for charring, cedar is a resilient and porous softwood that can withstand the burning process that, in turn, produces incredible longevity.

“That level of durability and resiliency was very attractive to us and our clients,” notes Katherine. “At the time we were considering shou sugi ban, the technique had not been widely used in the U.S. En route to another project in Singapore, we traveled to Kyoto, Japan, to see historic tea houses with shou sugi ban facades that were still in great shape. We also realized the climate of Kyoto had similarities to that of the Leelanau Peninsula, so we could see that shou sugi ban holds up well in regions that are seasonally impacted by snow and driving rain.”

The material’s durability was a crucial characteristic, but the team also loved the appearance of the exposed charred surface. The texture and modulation enhance the shadows across the facade as the sun rises and sets.

Legacy of the Land

living room fireplace from open kitchen view

Years before the build, Northern Michigan had been afflicted with an infestation of Emerald ash borer beetles that killed off numerous ash trees in the region. The owners’ site was no exception, and there were many dying trees on the property that the beetles had infected.

“We wanted to think of a way to honor the legacy of these old-growth trees and imbue the new house with the memory of the historic forests that thrived around the peninsula,” says Katherine. “We reclaimed the dying ash trees from the site and milled them down for interior cabinetry, flooring, ceiling panels, trim work, and custom furniture throughout the house.”

A fireplace designed by Desai Chia anchors the living area, providing a stunning focal point for the wooded landscape beyond. The living space opens onto a kitchen fit for multiple chefs, where Basaltina countertops complement the natural woods applied throughout.

Undulating Roofscape

The roofscape has gentle undulations that follow the movement of the natural terrain and make a playful reference to the vernacular architecture of nearby fishing villages. “Those historic fishing villages are made up of a cluster of buildings, each with a function or purpose in the community related to retail and commercial industries that have evolved over time,” Katherine notes. “We considered these as a community of buildings that relate and talk to each other, with the spaces in between and their forms essential to shape the architectural features of the place.”

For this lakeside dwelling, the team took clues from the vernacular architecture and played with inverting the roof forms—a performative as well as aesthetic move. “The inverted roof forms allowed us to capture rainwater and divert it away from the erosion-prone bluff that leads to the lake,” she adds. “Scuppers on the roof collect rainwater, allow for drainage, and assist with erosion control around the site. We had seen the effects of erosion along the bluffs and cliffs of Lake Michigan during several walks around the shoreline, and we wanted this new house to be a steward of the environment and protect the bluffs from further degradation.”

The home’s undulating roof, composed of exposed wood beams and plywood sheathing, references the rolling terrain. An outdoor fireplace clad in Cor-Ten-Steel echoes the interior fireplace of the same material, as well as some of the window surrounds and cladding for the garage door and chimney. Sleek Finn Collection lounge chairs from Design Within Reach align with the home’s clean aesthetic.

Rhythmic Vaulting

living area showing ceiling beams and woodland views outside

The forms of the inverted roofs are revealed inside the house as well. The resulting rhythm of exposed wood beams provides layers of asymmetrical vaults throughout the interiors. At the southern end of the house, a 20-foot cantilevered roof extends over the “vista” terrace, providing a protected, unobstructed view of Lake Michigan and the surrounding woodlands.

Sheer Elegance

dining room with lake views and reclaimed raw-edge ash table from property's plagued ash trees

The dining room and its breathtaking view create a breezy flow-through transition space connecting the home’s separate structures. A raw-edge reclaimed ash table designed by Desai Chia and fabricated by local Leelanau craftsman Gary Cheadle of Woodbine Inc. was made from the property’s plagued ash trees. Jens Risom chairs, with his trademark webbing, introduce a pleasing textural element.

Patina Personality

Interior stairway showing mix of beautiful natural woods

The interiors of the house embody the indigenous landscape that once thrived with old-growth ash. The wood color varies from a medium blonde to a darker caramel color. Additionally, the striations in the wood bring personality to floors, ceilings, the dining table, the primary bedroom’s platform bed, and various side tables throughout the home.

Pristine & Passive Design

primary bedroom with lake view and custom ash platform bed

The home elegantly integrates geothermal heating into its design. Studies of the prevailing winds determined window placement to take advantage of natural ventilation. Thus, there is no need for air-conditioning in the home. In the primary bedroom, an ash platform bed was designed by Desai Chia and fabricated by Gary Cheadle of Woodbine Inc. Expansive windowpanes by Western Windows appear throughout the home.

Inspiring Vistas

The vista terrace looking onto Lake Michigan

Landscape design strategies were closely tied to the design of the house. A tight palette of native vegetation highlights views while also managing stormwater run-off. Locally sourced stone creates outdoor seating areas, pathways, and steps.

“This effortless flow of this house allows for moments of repose and contemplation as well as family gatherings for mealtime, fireside chats, social events, and entertaining with extended family and friends,” Katherine notes. “The family loves the outdoors, and an incredible open-air ‘vista terrace’ lets them experience the grandeur of the landscape. With the warmth of a fireplace, it’s an outdoor living space they can enjoy year-round.”

If you and your family dream of finding a scenic refuge on Lake Michigan—or any other lake—visit Lake Homes Realty and explore the listings for the lake of your choice.

Camp MINOH: Rustic Lake Home on Lake Michigan

Posted on December 2, 2022December 15, 2022 Jeanne Delathouder

Photography by Matthew Carbone
Architecture: Daniel Kaven and Trevor William Lewis, William / Kaven Architecture

Just a few miles north of downtown Charlevoix, this stunning lake home graces the dramatic, windswept shores of Lake Michigan. Nestled among pine and birch trees, the house is positioned to face the intense winter winds that charge across the lake from the Upper Peninsula and Canada. Designed as a vacation home for a multi-generational family, the dwelling is ideally situated for outdoor activities and adventures in the summer, yet feels snug and protected throughout the long—and often harsh—cold winter months.

Before the build, the owners consulted with architects Daniel Kaven and Trevor William Lewis, brothers and collaborators at their Portland, Oregon-based studio, William / Kaven Architecture. The architects were tasked with creating a comfortable residential structure yet with strength and scale that matched the great body of water that can be viewed from every room in the house.

“When we begin any project, the first thing I do is walk the site, film, and take pictures,” explains Daniel, who led the project for its duration. “During the design phase, I often reflected on that moment of first facing the lake and its power. So we knew we wanted to design a structure commensurate with the drama of Lake Michigan.” The owners affectionately named their new lake home Camp MINOH, an acronym for Michigan, Indiana, and Ohio—all special places where they have lived.

Rugged Elegance

When the project began, the architectural team opted to keep the overall color palette understated to spotlight the home’s scenic natural setting. On the exterior, they used cypress Shou Sugi Ban, a Japanese technique used to extend the life of the wood by charring it. This ensured the house would stand up to the extreme exposure to storms and UV light.

“We were inspired by the textures of the site,” says Daniel. “The western shores of the lake are rocky, with prevailing winds from the west. Vast stretches of soft sand beaches and dunes line the eastern shores. The northeastern shores near Charlevoix are sculpted by large bays and dotted with inland lakes. We felt that the charcoal-like, distressed texture created by the Shou Sugi Ban would evoke the craggy surfaces of the natural surroundings, such as the wind-beaten trees, rocks, and sandy hills.”

Site-cast concrete balances the dark wood and contributes a rawness, strength, and subtle elegance to the exterior. Expansive glazing presents shimmering reflections of the trees and water and allows the residence to further blend into its surroundings.

Dramatic Entrance

Although spare and simple in design, the massive entrance hall is still visually impactful with its well-balanced mix of natural finishes. The space’s grand proportions and apparent emptiness create an immediate sense of tranquility upon first entry. Even the family dog finds it utterly relaxing and the perfect place to soak up the sun.

“Early on, the client expressed a desire for a rugged, low-maintenance home—a stipulation that informed the simple interior palette,” notes Daniel. “Exposed Douglas fir beams make up the ceiling, while dark and rich tones of walnut and polished concrete floors anchor the space.”

Boldly Built

The ground floor is the main gathering space, with a long and linear connected floor plan, stunning views, and a blackened-steel wood-burning fireplace. The upper floor is highlighted by rift-sawn white oak, creating an intentional contrast to the ground floor below. An upper cantilevered living section and framed views of the lake add to the concept of airiness, serving to connect the interior space with the dramatic exterior environment. “We designed Camp MINOH to be a highly customized refuge for extended family gatherings, with large, open communal spaces and cozy nooks for privacy,” notes Daniel. “The interior plays between opaque and transparent spaces to showcase the beauty of the site.”

Beautifully Blended

Camp MINOH is furnished with comfortable but refined modern pieces in primarily neutral tones to deliver a sense of serenity and comfort. Furnishings were kept minimal to allow the inherent beauty of the architecture to speak for itself.

“We selected an oversized leather couch for the living room to give a rustic, cabin-like feel, as well as to anchor the space,” notes Daniel. “A mix of bright and dark gives the house a quality of solidity and boldness without crossing over into the realm of heaviness.”

Sleek Efficiency

The team knew they wanted to design a sleek, energy-efficient kitchen and include visual references to elements of the rustic Midwestern landscape, including a nearby old barn that had been charred in a fire years before. Richly toned, black walnut cabinetry with a continuous grain defines the boundaries of the kitchen and the living room.

Raw Beauty

A significant design priority was to convey a distinct sense of tranquility, which the architectural team achieved by incorporating floor-to-ceiling windows that highlight the vivid year-round sunsets and frame views of Beaver Island. The home’s exterior is composed of concrete, charred wood, glass, and steel. On snow-covered days, the family enjoys the stark beauty of winter across the vast waters, and on summer nights, they spend time on the concrete patio around the fire pit.

“During the design process, we conducted detailed material studies of polished finishes juxtaposed with rough-hewn textures to discover ways of echoing the rugged terrain, diverse weather systems, supernatural winter shores, and slick lake surface,” says Daniel.

Tranquil Transparency

Both levels of the home are highly transparent upon approach, and from the road in, visitors can see clear through the house to the lake. The second floor features a private den for film viewing, a bunk room, and two-bedroom suites.

“One of my favorite features of the composition is the glazed cantilevering upper level that gives you the sense of floating into the forest with unobstructed views of the lake,” says Daniel.

The family uses Camp MINOH as a vacation retreat rather than a year-round home, but they visit in both the warm and cold months. The shared family vision for this Northern Michigan home was a retreat that would offer communal shelter in the depths of winter and serve as a gathering place for long summer nights.

“Our versatile design allows for this,” Daniel adds. “Camp MINOH is also intended to be used by various generations and age groups. By designing a home with flexible spaces and adaptability, we ensured that many combinations of family and friends could be comfortably accommodated for years to come.”

Wabi-Sabi Inspired Cabin on Loon Lake, NH

Posted on October 18, 2022December 15, 2022 Jeanne Delathouder

Photography: Trent Bell, Trent Bell Photography
Architecture: Whitten Architects
Landscape Architect: Soren deNiord, Soren deNiord Design Studio
Interior Design: Heidi Lachapelle, Heidi Lachapelle Interiors

On a peaceful waterfront plot, this contemporary cabin nestles between New Hampshire’s Lakes Region and the White Mountains on the scenic shores of Loon Lake. Lined with tall pines and hemlocks, the picturesque lake hosts swimming recreation in the summer and ice fishing shelters in the winter. The homeowners, who have generations of family history in this charming locale, imagined a restful retreat that expressed deep ties to the area while also reflecting their well-traveled sensibilities and the wealth of ideas they learned abroad. One such concept that appealed to them was the wabi-sabi aesthetic, a traditional Japanese ideology that embraces the imperfect, impermanent, and incomplete in nature.

The clients brought their design concept to Maine-based Whitten Architects, who immediately got on board and ran with it. Tom Lane, an associate with the firm, seized the opportunity with enthusiasm and led the team who worked closely with the couple to design their two-bedroom getaway. Whitten Architects also worked in tandem with landscape architect Soren deNiord to ensure a fluid continuity inside and out.

“Our clients discussed the idea of wabi-sabi in their brief—the Japanese concept of beauty in imperfection and transience,” Tom explains. “We explored the expression of these ideas in the rustic wood cladding, which will patina in time, and in the polished concrete slab that reveals evidence of the formwork of its construction. The home was designed without a particular style in mind, but rather, through a process of discovering how our clients wanted to use their home and what form and materials fit on the site.”

Organic Orientation

“Our clients wanted a home that was natural in materials and textures,” says Tom. “The exterior cladding was inspired by a stack of cut logs that were on the site at an early meeting. The house is clad, like a cut log, with bark and sapwood. The ‘bark’ is Western red cedar stained black giving it a Shou Sugi Ban appearance, inspired by the ancient Japanese technique that preserves wood by charring it with fire. The ‘sapwood’ siding undercover, along the entrance axis, is Douglas fir with a natural oil finish.”

Natural Flow

The interior walls are veneer plaster, a traditional craft in New England, and the floor is a polished concrete slab with hydronic radiant heat. “Together with the interior designer, we developed a restrained material palette to allow the views outside to provide color that changes throughout the seasons,” says Tom.

The living area transitions effortlessly outdoors, creating a seamless connection to the surrounding landscape. Outside, a conversation area welcomes family and guests with a grouping of Adirondack chairs. A clever concrete bench with firewood storage and detachable wood back was designed by landscape architect Soren deNiord, who collaborated with craftsman Ken Hood. Douglas fir columns lining the walkway create a colonnade aiming toward the lake.

Visually Connected

“We see the house as a means to enjoy this land by the lake,” Tom says. “The living room is designed to invite the outdoors in while providing shelter from the elements. The interior ceiling is lower on the sleeping and utility sides of the house and is vaulted in the shared kitchen and living space. In the cold and dark New England winters, the corner fireplace engages the senses and provides thermal comfort and a warm atmosphere from two sides.”

The interior furnishings, selected by interior designer Heidi Lachapelle, are intended to be functional, comfortable, and elegant in form. Materials were chosen that age gracefully, showing evidence of use by developing a patina and aligning with the wabi-sabi concept. The room’s lofty 12-foot ceiling makes the room feel airy and spacious.

“Our interior palette of dark green and rust stayed in step with the colors seen in the landscape,” Heidi explains. “We punctuated the color scheme with neutral-hued textures. We were thoughtful with the fabric materials and used linens, velvets, and weaves to add subtle dimension and depth.”

Heidi’s clean and minimal aesthetic includes an oak daybed from Bautier and an indoor/outdoor rug by Dash & Albert. Shapely trapezoidal cushions counterbalance the straight lines of the concrete bench.

Functional Flexibility

In the kitchen, an oak table by Ethnicraft can be extended by the flip of a lever. Contemporary Windsor chairs by Hay complement the Shaker influences seen throughout the home. The oak cabinet behind the sofa has casters, so it can be pulled into use in multiple places when extra surface space is needed.

The original architectural plan included a centralized kitchen island, but the owners opted for a more flexible option—a dining table that could also double as a prep area. The countertops are fabricated from local granite, and the light wood screen backing the darkly stained open cabinetry echoes the cut-log concept of the exterior façade.

Shaker Simplicity

The primary bedroom features a vintage velvet Ligne Roset chair—a treasured find from the renowned Brimfield Antique Market. Heidi sourced the Ethnicraft bed and side table from Fiore Home in Portland, Maine.

“With the furniture, we focused on familiar Shaker references that have modern silhouettes,” Heidi explains. “We wanted every piece within the space to work seamlessly with the architecture and the inside/outside design. No single piece stands out more than the other but works together to create a beautiful environment.”

Imperfect Harmony

“The home is simple and functional in form and materials in deference to the natural surroundings and local traditions,” Tom Says. “Granite boulders, emerging between hardscape, express the splice of the architectural intervention with nature.”

A simple and streamlined concrete bench custom-designed by deNiord aligns with the concrete slabs—intentionally sized in a random fashion—that lead to the covered entrance. The landscape architect also opted to pour concrete around the organically shaped boulder to represent the disruption of perfect geometry and bring the homeowners’ requested wabi-sabi aesthetic outdoors.

Secluded Screened Porch

“A screened porch, situated on piers, was nestled in the woods with minimal impact to the earth and surrounding trees,” Tom explains. “At night, the porch appears like a lantern in the woods and offers another point of view to the site.”

The family uses this home throughout the year—often as a place for introspection and other times as a place for gathering and hosting. In the summer, they enjoy accessing the lake by the dock, sitting around the fire pit, and enjoying the screened porch. The wood stove makes the porch comfortable and enjoyable on cool fall nights, and a concrete wall behind the porch provides privacy from the road as well as a backdrop for the stove.

Quiet Contemplation

“The design of this home is intended to create a well-crafted locus for peaceful contemplation as well as a venue for hosting, gathering, and making memories with family and friends,” Tom concludes. “We see this fitting well into the tradition and purpose of a home by a lake.”

If you’re inspired to find your own little slice of serenity, visit Lake Homes and start your search. Here’s to a blissful summer by the lake—cheers!

Dive Into Deep Creek: A Maryland Transitional Lake Home

Posted on July 22, 2022December 15, 2022 Jeanne Delathouder

A couple’s request for a sizable lake home poised along the shores of Deep Creek Lake in Oakland, Maryland, materialized into a dream come true for themselves and their extended family. Designed by Pennsylvania architect Chad Chalmers, a principal at Wildman Chalmers Design in Pittsburgh, this ground-up residential project features a spectacular double-height living area that opens up to a deck overlooking the lake. Considered a traditional home with modern interior detailing, the house boasts seven bedrooms and eight and a half bathrooms. Luxurious amenities include a hot tub, a full gym with a sauna, a golf simulator room, four massive fireplaces, and a spacious covered porch.

“Nestled lakeside in the woods, this house truly becomes one with nature because of its expansive windows, natural materials, and earthy tones,” says Chad. “Four large stone fireplaces provide additional warmth during the cool mountain nights—one in the great room that is mirrored by a fireplace at the opposite end of the house by the pool table, one in the basement seating area, and one on the porch,” he adds.

Deep Creek Lake is the largest inland body of water in Maryland, offering 69 miles of shoreline and covering approximately 3,900 acres. The lake is well known for its seasonal outdoor recreation, including boating, swimming, tubing, biking, rafting, snow skiing, and snowboarding. It’s also home to a wide variety of freshwater fish and aquatic birds. This four-season getaway has it all, from blissful summers in the sun on the lake to brilliant autumn foliage to lots of fluffy snow for downhill skiing.

Lavish Lake Views

Chad intentionally designed the home with a sloped roof to accommodate the region’s heavy snow during the winter season. The extra-long deck is perfect for soaking in the sun and taking in gorgeous views of the lake.

“The size of the lot was one of the biggest challenges we faced due to the architectural program the owner requested,” Chad explains. “We were working near a lake that has a buffer zone governed by the Department of Natural Resources that you cannot build on. We managed to site the home accordingly yet capture the best views and enable easy access to the lake for the homeowners,” he notes.

Optional Open-Air

A large expanse of sliding glass doors opens up to the balcony overlooking the lake, lending a seamless flow and a breezy alfresco feel to the living spaces when the weather permits. The soaring double-height living area provides magnificent views from top to bottom.

“The owners’ friends and family gather at the house often for holidays, weekends, and extended stays to ski at the local resort,” says Chad. “The family gravitates here for water sports on the lake, to work remotely, and simply enjoy each other’s company.”

Free-Flowing Floorplan

The remarkable absence of walls creates an effortless flow and offers beautiful sightlines from any vantage point. Perfect for entertaining, guests can mingle and move about with ease while constantly feeling part of the group. Swivel seating near all the windows allows intimate fireside gatherings and sunrise gazing across the lake with a cup of coffee by a simple twist of the chair.

“The soft seating in all areas of the home balances the solidity of the wooden beams and stone fireplaces, producing a relaxing effect,” says the architect. “The simple lines and patterns throughout the house keep distraction from the architecture and views to a minimum,” he notes.

Design Drama

The living area flows gracefully into the dining area, allowing unobstructed views of the grand floor-to-ceiling stacked-stone fireplace and the landscape outside. A striking circular chandelier with a double ring of candelabras creates a soft glow and accentuates the dramatic beamed ceiling. The airy open staircase brings yet another visually appealing architectural element to the space.

“The home was elegantly designed in a transitional architectural style—not modern, not contemporary,” says Chad. “Natural, authentic materials and a palette of browns, grays, and soft whites create visual continuity between the interior of the house and the cloud-dotted sky and oak-studded hillside,” he sums.

Gather & Game

Adjacent to the game room area, a wonderfully roomy kitchen with a central island and generous counter space offers multiple options for convenient food prep, group cooking, and family gatherings. This hotspot is the home’s entertaining hub and connects visually to the scenic surroundings of Deep Creek Lake. Beamed ceilings align with the home’s rustic yet refined aesthetic, and a lowered ceiling height lends a cozy feel to the space.

Soothing & Serene

Framing an idyllic view of the lake, one of the primary bedrooms offers a relaxing retreat for anyone lucky enough to sleep here. Fling open the French doors at night to enjoy a glimpse of the moon and stars, and you’ll quickly be lulled to sleep by the gentle sounds of water lapping against the shore. Simple and understated furniture and décor let the lake landscape take center stage.

Party on the Porch

Perfect for game day celebrations or evening cocktails at sunset, this blissful covered porch features a vaulted ceiling with a rich red patina and an inviting outdoor fireplace. Oversize seating with plump cushioning welcomes guests to kick back, relax, and enjoy the moment. A ceiling fan keeps it cool in the summer, and stylish hanging lanterns create a cozy ambiance at night.

“The key objective for this project was making sure all the spaces in the home have a great view of either the lake or the woods,” says Chad. “It was an absolute pleasure working with these homeowners to bring their vision to life.”

Wakesurfin’ Safari: Montana’s Whitefish Lake Home

Posted on June 27, 2022January 26, 2023 Jeanne Delathouder

*Photo courtesy of Lech Naumovich, Greater Than Image.*

Ideally situated near Whitefish Mountain Ski Resort and the area’s abundance of water recreation, this was undoubtedly the sweet spot for Lauren and Brittan Ellingson to build their family lake home. Owners of Notice Custom Boards, a custom wakesurf and snowboard company in Whitefish, Montana, the couple was intent on creating an all-seasons haven where they could connect their family to the great outdoors any time of year. On the storied grounds of an old summer camp, they decided to construct their new retreat when they approached the builders at Mindful Designs and Zach George, a partner and architectural designer at Workaday Design. The Ellingson’s lot, formerly the check-in office, was the last lot to have one of the camp’s original buildings, which had been converted into a triplex structure. When they discovered the old building had mold problems, the team decided to tear it down and start fresh.

Twin Gable Treehouse

“When we designed the new building, we wanted to keep the camp inspiration and the gabled feel of the original structures,” says Zach. “The angled white-brick entry relates to the angle of the street and offers an appealing buffered entrance to the home.”

Built around the idea of having two separate zones in their home, the dwelling includes one main residence and a second space above the garage for guests who are going out on the lake. “This programmatic idea drove the form of the home,” Zach adds, “and it was further brought to life with a design language that the building team felt reflected the modern architecture of the surrounding lake and ski town. The home has both Scandinavian and Japanese architectural influences with 12 x12 pitched gabled roofs, wood-slat screen walls for added privacy, and an honest material palette,” he sums.

Go-To Guest Studio

At the couple’s request, a secluded guest studio was built over the garage at one end of the house. The rear is outfitted with an open-air stairwell and an innovative slatted screen that allows light to pierce through, creating dramatic shadows that shift with the angle of the sun. The space has served as “a great place for family and friends to shower, dry off, and hang out after spending time on the water,” says Zach.

An adjoining covered breezeway features a striking two-sided white brick fireplace and enables a seamless connection to the main indoor living spaces. The airy outdoor seating areas capture views of the lake beyond, and a black-stained custom slat screen with operable doors reiterates the design of the front porches while providing privacy from the street. Because of the lot’s challenging triangle shape and heavily treed sightlines to Whitefish Lake just across the street, Zach’s team sited the home at an angle to allow a bigger backyard and optimize spectacular views of the lake.

“The primary siding material is a natural cedar with shou sugi ban (charred cedar) siding in the recessed areas of the exterior,” Zach explains. “The natural wood complements the surrounding trees and nature of the site and will gray out over time. The wood slat screens create varied visual experiences in the home as the shadows change throughout the day,” he adds.

Front Porch Perch

At the opposite end of the house, a cozy second-floor balcony mirrors its partner over the garage and offers a sheltered bird’s nest in the trees from which to take in the beautiful views. Here, the Ellingson kids kick back after a test drive on one of their dad’s custom wakesurf boards.

Color Connection

Fresh green cabinetry and white oak flooring in the guest studio echo the color scheme of the home’s main kitchen and living room space, ensuring a satisfying continuity throughout. The interior décor, color palette, and furnishing selections were all created by owner Lauren Ellingson.

Balance & Flow

“Lauren did a fantastic job of creating a warm and cozy vibe for the interior of their home,” says Zach. “The green cabinetry serves to play off the surrounding trees and lake, and the warm wood ceilings prevent the space from feeling too austere. It was Lauren’s idea to incorporate the white-painted bricks to the home’s central fireplace and continue it to the angled front entrance to help create continuity and a hint of what is on the inside,” he notes.

Island Oasis

The spacious kitchen island is a favorite gathering hub for Lauren, Brit, and their two young kids. To visually connect the space to the home’s other white brick accents, Lauren chose a white brick backsplash that allows the green cabinets to pop.

Lake Break

Father and son hit the lake to try out a new wakesurf design. “This is one of the best perks of living here,” says Zach. “The home offers an ideal setting and has served as a great laboratory for Brit to test out his latest creations on Whitefish Lake,” he adds.

“Overall, this was a great project to collaborate with truly creative and bold clients,” continues Zach. “Lauren had a vision that we were able to work towards together and create a truly special home. Mindful Designs did a spectacular job helping to make it all come together with great attention to detail and craftsmanship,” he sums. “I think that really amazing projects have some amount of risk associated with them—to go out on a limb and do something bold, fresh, and new. The entire team’s commitment to these ideals shines through with the finished home.”

Interested in finding or building your dream home in the Whitefish Lake, Montana area? Visit Lake Homes Realty for more details and enjoy the lake life!

Regional Lake Living: Pacific Northwest Styles – From Classic Craftsman to Sleek NW Modern

Posted on February 25, 2022March 6, 2023 Jeanne Delathouder

In our previous segment of Regional Lake Living, we explored the architectural styles of the Northeast, where charming bungalows and shingled Cape Cods dot the lake shorelines of this breathtaking region that stretches all the way up to the northern coast of Maine. Today, we turn our focus to the Pacific Northwest as we take a guided tour of some of the most notable architectural styles and how they came to be. So, grab a glass of your favorite regional wine, and relax on your breezy lakeside porch as we relish life amidst Washington state’s majestic mountains and all areas in between.

Classic Craftsman Style

A harmonious mix of functionality and classic architectural beauty is what makes craftsman style an iconic favorite throughout the Pacific Northwest. Blending seamlessly with the region’s extraordinary natural landscapes, craftsman-style homes feature an abundance of locally sourced materials—predominantly wood and stone—for which the area is widely known.

Stone foundations, gable roofs, and exposed wood beams are some of the most noteworthy characteristics of this beloved style. Deep overhangs and spacious wraparound covered porches provide much-needed protection from the Pacific Northwest’s excessive rains. Expansive windows allow plenty of natural sunlight inside while also offering picturesque views of the surrounding lake scenery.

Rustic Cabin Retreats

What could be more charming—and visually appealing—than a secluded cabin tucked into a forested lakefront in the Pacific Northwest? At one with the mountains, trees, and sparkling crystal waters, these rustic retreats meld gracefully into their natural environments, offering inhabitants a comforting sense of peace and a deep connection to the great outdoors. Using an abundance of reclaimed and salvaged wood, along with other locally sourced materials, simple cottages and log cabins are built with ease throughout the region. These cozy hideaways are most commonly found in more remote and rural areas, which makes them all the more alluring if you’re looking for a quiet escape away from it all.

Floating Homes

For many of us, the romantic notion of living in a floating home—or houseboat—conjures memories of a beloved movie favorite, Sleepless in Seattle. The thought of living in a dwelling that sits atop the shimmering water amidst the sounds of waves lapping gently in the night is a wonderfully dreamy image and one that people in the Pacific Northwest continue to pursue.

Contrary to popular belief, floating homes do not drift but are moored and often float next to a pier. Their typically small spaces often offer unique opportunities to create innovative architectural and interior design solutions that most minimalists thrive on.

But this extravagant 1,750 square-foot residence expels the notion that all houseboats are tiny. Flooded with natural light and surrounded by the tranquil waters of Seattle’s Lake Union, this captivating two-story floating home features incredible custom built-in cabinetry throughout, a luxurious sauna, and a breezy roof deck from which to watch the area’s spectacular sunsets. In addition, this lavish dwelling boasts a huge kitchen/dining area, three bedrooms, two baths, and two decks from which to enjoy the best of alfresco lake living.

Tudor-Revival Style

Gracefully arched entryways, steep-pitched roofs, and cottage-like half-timbered stucco facades give Tudor-style homes a castle-in-a-fairytale vibe. With origins in England, this beloved architectural style is popular throughout the country, specifically the Pacific Northwest. Both quaint and elegant, Tudor style lends itself to splendid lakefront properties with sprawling grounds and spectacular views. With a hint of English grandeur, Tudor-revival homes typically feature narrow windows grouped together, creating wide expanses that allow lots of natural light and maximize the views outside.

This stunning home perches pristinely over Seattle’s lovely Lake Washington and boasts majestic roof peaks, leaded-glass windows, elaborate archways, and ornate brickwork. Cozy fireplaces and lavish outdoor spaces make this dwelling just as inviting in summer as in the chilly winter months.

Modern Style

For those who love minimalist design, modern style—sometimes referred to as NW modern—is a perfect choice. With clean lines, spacious open floor plans, and a complete lack of ornamentation, modern style architecture intentionally blurs the lines between home and landscape. Unadorned exterior design incorporating natural materials and vast expanses of glass and steel windows give this genre an industrial vibe that’s also warm and livable. Extended overhangs provide protection from the region’s notorious rains while creating year-round outdoor spaces that can be used—rain or shine.

An offshoot of modern style, NW modern style takes on a distinctively Japanese aesthetic—think sleek bamboo and lustrous maple woods, light-filled minimalist spaces, and a deep connection to the natural landscape.

If you’re eager to explore lake living options in the Pacific Northwest region—or anywhere else across the country for that matter—visit Lakehomes.com, select your desired state, and discover the beauty of life on the lake.

2022 Winter Oasis: Inspiring Roundup of Dreamy Winter Lake Homes

Posted on February 4, 2022March 6, 2023 Jeanne Delathouder

Despite all the staying-at-home we’ve experienced over the past two years, many of us—especially lake lovers—still long for the enchanted snow-filled days of winter spent snuggling up inside and whiling away the hours reading, daydreaming, or spending time with loved ones. And if you love getting out in it, there’s no better setting than a lakeside winter wonderland for cross-country skiing, hiking, ice fishing, or just having fun in the snow. As we move into a more promising 2022, Lake Homes invites you to rekindle those carefree snowbound afternoons by imagining yourself in a blissful lakeside haven surrounded by breathtaking snowscapes that only mother nature can deliver. For some visual inspiration, read on and enjoy.

Lake Winnipesaukee, New Hampshire

Rear View, Lake Winnipesaukee retreat.
Photo courtesy of *Trent Bell* *via* *Whitten Architects*

Imagine yourself looking out onto this extraordinary winter landscape that nestles along the shores of New Hampshire’s beautiful Lake Winnipesaukee. Like a picture postcard, this four-seasons home offers its owners the best vantage point from which to enjoy the breathtaking scenery. Designed by Whitten Architects, this retreat features a central fireplace—the beloved heart of the home—that divides the dining and living rooms. The floorplan and windows were strategically placed to capture the natural light and exemplify the spectacular views outside. The surrounding native vegetation protects the home from the chilly lake winds while also offering shade during the area’s hot summers.

Pend Oreille Lake, Idaho

View from the living area, Pend Oreille Lake retreat.
Photo courtesy of *Marie-Dominique Verdier* *via* *Hendricks Architecture*

Both rustic and refined, this lakefront home boasts amazing views of the water and snow-capped mountains beyond. Designed by Hendricks Architecture in Sandpoint, Idaho, this magnificent retreat is flooded with gorgeous natural light via a newly constructed cupola and pair of dormer windows up top.

The spacious great room, which includes an open kitchen, dining area, and living space, capitalizes on the awe-inspiring views of Pend Oreille Lake’s sparkling blue waters and majestic mountain backdrop. The master bedroom features a cozy fireplace, and the basement, which allows in plenty of sunlight, includes guest bedrooms, an office, and an exercise area. A haven of fun and relaxation, this family refuge undoubtedly feeds the soul day in and day out with its incredible scenery.

Lake Wenatchee, Washington

Photo courtesy of *Benjamin Benschneider* *via* *Deforest Architects*

Sophisticated yet delightfully cozy, this mountain retreat perches above Lake Wenatchee, Washington, amid the Cascade Mountains. Deforest Architects, along with the homeowners, worked to create the perfect family dwelling that would blend seamlessly with the surrounding landscape. The four-seasons structure combines earthy tile, stone, and composites with the warmth of natural wood—the perfect complement to the modern/rustic regional aesthetic of the Pacific Northwest.

Stand-out features include alternating roof forms, indoor/outdoor spaces, a media room behind a secret bookcase, reading nooks, and a sleeping loft to accommodate kids and guests. The home’s innovative design offers flexibility for almost any occasion and exudes a sense of peace and tranquility throughout every room.

Lake Michigan, Charlevoix, Michigan

Photo courtesy of *William / Kaven Architecture*

This captivating retreat set amid birch and pine trees on the shores of Lake Michigan echoes the pristine, stark winter beauty of the Midwestern region. Located just outside Charlevoix and designed by William / Kaven Architects, the home serves as a beloved retreat for family gatherings and lakeside recreation.

At the homeowners’ request, the dwelling takes on a rustic, low-maintenance demeanor with natural materials and an earthy color palette. A cantilevered living area featuring expansive views of the lake connects to the outdoors, creating an airy, open vibe. Tranquil sunsets and views of Beaver Island are just a few of the perks enjoyed inside this awe-inspiring refuge.

Wood Lake, Wisconsin

Photo courtesy of *Corey Gaffer* *via* *SALA Architects*

If you crave being at one with the landscape, then this intriguing little haven is just your style—and it can be rented as well! Set amidst a 140-acre property overlooking Wood Lake on a plot of rural land in Frederic, Wisconsin—just 90 minutes northeast of Minneapolis—this humble yet remarkably energy-efficient retreat was designed by architect David O’Brien Wagner of SALA Architects. Accessed via a gravel drive, the wonderfully secluded property features a pathway leading between the trees to a footbridge that carries guests across to the entry of the home, aptly named Metal Lark.

A corrugated steel wall buffers the dwelling from the prevailing northwest winter winds common to the region. Inside, the line of the bridge continues out the other side, where a cantilevered deck offers extraordinary views of the landscape beyond. The 820-square-foot cabin features living spaces on two levels and sustainable strategies, including solar panels, passive solar orientation, triple-pane windows and operable windows for cross-ventilation, and thick walls for maximum insulation.

Created for a multi-generational family who dreamed of building a vacation rental near their family cabin, Metal Lark Tower is the first retreat to open at Nordlys and is available to book on Airbnb.

If you want to find your own cozy refuge by the lake, visit LakeHomes.com and select your desired lake region. Happy house-hunting!

Pleasant Lake Camp: Waterfront Retreat for a Modern Family

Posted on November 30, 2021March 6, 2023 Jeanne Delathouder

Sited on a former 1930s girls’ camp called Camp Truda and set along the shores of Maine’s Pleasant Lake, a family property offers the opportunity for three generations to come together in one enchanting destination. On this heavily wooded stretch of land, a Boston-based couple with young children wanted to create a four-season lakefront retreat that would ultimately share a common driveway and a large swath of waterfront with the husband’s parents’ existing cottage built 30 years earlier. The challenge? To design a contemporary lake home that would relate to the traditional style of the surrounding architecture yet also accommodate the needs of a modern family.

“It was a social as well as an architectural challenge,” says Rob Whitten, founding principal of Whitten Architects, who took on the project. “Both homes needed to relate to one another while honoring their own identities and affording both families their privacy,” he notes.

Deep Forest Allure

A pair of stone piers and an alley of 70-year-old white pines leading to the waterfront welcome visitors to the property. “Because of the dense tree cover and our clients’ desire for daylight and lake views, we worked with a local arborist to site the camp around healthy trees while removing diseased evergreens,” says Whitten. “Our site-specific design planned for an open space between the camps on the inland side for family games and interaction,” he adds.

“We strived to maintain some of the big trees close to the house to honor the woods,” says Drew Bortles, a project manager at Whitten Architects who worked with Rob on the overall design. “It brings a level of age to the home, and we wanted this house to feel as if it had always been there,” he adds.

Camp-style Charisma

Nostalgic about the lake life, the homeowners—both with Maine roots—love the relaxed feel here and the area’s endless opportunities to connect with nature. Actively involved in the design process, they drew inspiration from turn-of-the-century waterfront camps. They wanted their home to take on a traditional look—an exposed post-and-beam structure with warm wood finishes—compatible with the neighboring parents’ camp yet with a more modern, light-filled open floor plan.

The home features an exposed timber frame with white cedar shingles on the upper portion and red cedar boards running horizontally around the first level. The rustic appeal of a fieldstone chimney is echoed in the terrace walls that surround a bluestone patio out back. Hand-split granite was salvaged from the site and repurposed as part of an entry bench, a fireplace hearth, and a screened porch bench.

“This house is very focused on the waterfront and all the solar exposures,” explains Rob. “The son and his dad share a common driveway, and their screened porches face each other but still offer each home privacy. They all share the lakefront space, which includes a dock and a kayak rack. Creating a direct connection from indoor living spaces to outdoor living spaces was a key part of our design,” he explains.

The wrapped and screened porches with exposed Douglas fir rafters extend the interior spaces outdoors and provide an idyllic spot for entertaining and a play space for the kids—rain or shine. The lakeside terrace offers a sunny oasis to unwind on long afternoons, and a fire pit invites marshmallow roasts on cool evenings. A long dock allows the family easy swim access to the area’s main attraction—the lake.

Sunny and Spacious

The sun-drenched kitchen connects visually to the lake outside and features bi-parting sliders on the right side of the bank of windows that open to the front porch. To complement their home’s camp-style architectural design, the couple hired interior designer Krista Stokes to help them create a relaxed, down-to-earth aesthetic. Using a soft, understated color palette throughout, she gave the kitchen cabinetry an unexpected wash of Farrow & Ball Green Smoke paint—a shade they surprisingly discovered to be similar to the next-door parents’ kitchen.

“The open shelving has a very campy feel,” Bortles comments, “and contemporary lighting fixtures take on a vintage look. The Macaubas quartzite countertop—a type of Brazilian granite—provides a nice textural contrast to the butcher block island topped in solid white oak plank,” he adds.

Additional first-floor living spaces include a full pantry, mudroom, half bath, full laundry, and a getaway space with an office and TV.

Cozy and Casual

To invite spaciousness and light, Whitten designed open-plan living and dining spaces that emulate the look of traditional camp cottages as well as the neighboring parents’ house. Horizontal nickel-gap white pine boards outfit the walls and ceilings in a natural matte finish, and knotty white oak floorboards lend a gracefully aged patina. Oiled Douglas fir ceiling beams display a subtle red hue overhead, creating a tangible and satisfying warmth within.

A slipcovered sofa and a built-in window seat are among the family’s favorite hangout spots for reading or snuggling in front of the fire. A Moroccan rug anchors the seating area and complements the solid fabrics with a bold graphic pattern.

“This area is a haven of outdoor recreation with many lakes, spectacular fishing, a nearby ski resort, and ATV and hiking trails,” says Whitten. “The family visits every week—even in the winter—so we made sure to implement energy-efficient features including high-performance windows, spray foam insulation, and radiant heated floors. There’s also a home office where the couple can work remotely,” he sums.

Effortless Elegance

Backdropped by an open staircase, the adjacent dining area is kept airy and light with minimal clean-lined furnishings, including a reclaimed pine farmhouse-style table from Restoration Hardware, hand-crafted Shaker-style chairs from O&G Studio, and a black iron chandelier from Ballard Designs. Unobtrusive yet ample cabinetry hugs the back wall and creates even more room to breathe.

Scenic Stairway

A nickel-gap pine-board accent wall creates a glorious window to the woods atop the staircase leading to the second-story master suite, two guest bedrooms, a bunk room that sleeps five, and a generous Jack-and-Jill bathroom. Hudson Bay wool blankets draped over the stair rail give colorful texture to a cozy nook at the top of the stairs.

Find Your Niche

Perhaps some of the home’s most inviting features are the cozy built-in nooks made for reading, sleeping, and daydreaming. Upstairs, cocoon-like bunk beds give the kids a secret alcove all their own, and the living room’s reading nook offers the best seat in the house for watching a summer rainstorm or the first winter snowfall.

“We enjoyed designing all the built-ins, and I especially enjoyed having a hand in the bunk beds and all the finishes in that room,” says Bortles. “Throughout the property, we worked with the homeowners to create spaces that encourage little pauses—special moments—where you can just take it all in. The bunk room conjures memories of staying up late into the night and chatting, and the breathtaking views from the window seat and the terrace outside inspire you to ponder the beautiful natural environment and the refreshing lake beyond.”

Regional Lake Living: Northeastern Styles – From Charming Cape Cods to Quaint Bungalows

Posted on October 22, 2021March 6, 2023 Jeanne Delathouder

In our first segment of Regional Lake Living, we explored the architectural styles of the South, where gracious Southern hospitality reigns supreme and shady verandas and breezy screened porches offer a charmed way of life. Today, we turn our focus to the Northeastern region of the country as we take a guided tour of some of the most notable architectural styles and how they came to be. So, grab your favorite cocktail and relax in your Adirondack chair as we relish life on the Cape and all areas in between.

Classic Cape Cod

Originating along the coast of New England in the late 1600s, the classic shingle-style Cape Cod is the quintessential architectural style of the region. These picturesque cottages—sporting wonderfully weathered wood-shingled facades, steeply pitched gabled roofs, and a single chimney on one end—stand prominently on the Massachusetts shoreline and conjure images of idyllic summer clambakes on the sand.

Typically rising one and a half stories tall, the classic cape cod is anchored by a center hall that runs the entire width of the home. The front door is usually centered and void of architectural embellishment, but modern interpretations of this iconic style can include breezy porticos and porches—perfect for waterfront living.

Greek Revival

Drawing inspiration from the architecture of ancient Greece, this visually appealing style found its place in American history during the mid-1800s. Pristinely poised with gleaming white-painted exteriors, Greek Revival homes embody a pleasing sense of symmetry accented with graceful columns or pilasters and front-facing gabled roofs. The popularity of this style—reminiscent of Greece’s famed Parthenon—emerged as American architects sought inspiration from Grecian architecture in the mid-1800s, a turn of events spurred by the country’s bitterness toward the British after the War of 1812.

This uplifting aesthetic celebrates the impeccable timeless beauty of Grecian design, which can be found in both grand public buildings and scenic city neighborhoods. In residential settings, Greek Revival homes connect seamlessly to their surroundings, often including large porches that invite effortless indoor-outdoor living.

Bungalow Style

Beloved for its quaint simplicity and airy open floor plan, the bungalow captures all the rustic charm of a lakeside cabin, yet with the efficiency of built-in shelving, cabinetry, and roomy double-hung windows. Originating in India by the British during the mid-nineteenth century, the first one-story bungalows offered shelter from the hot climate with roomy porches and wide overhanging eaves.

Taking style cues from the Craftsman, the more petite American bungalow typically features a second story, dormered roofs, and a smaller-scale front porch at the entrance. Clad with stonework embellishments on the bottom—along with clapboard, shingle, or stucco siding—bungalows can be found all over the country and adapt to many different tastes and regions. First constructed in southern California between 1905 and 1930, American bungalow style rapidly became ubiquitous throughout the United States. Today, it is especially befitting in the Northeastern region, where laid-back lake living thrives.

Victorian Style

Photo courtesy of Better Homes & Gardens

The utmost antithesis of the buttoned-up attitude that typically characterizes the Victorians, these eclectic painted ladies or gingerbread houses celebrate whimsy and fanciful architecture like no other. These playful expressions, or so it seems, came across through the unexpected style of Victorian homes in what could be considered a joyful rebellion against the rigid symmetry, balance, and unadorned squareness depicting American architecture over the past 200 years.

Originating in England, Victorian style eventually flourished abroad, and its extensive reach soon spread to America. The style became most prominent during the 1900s when manufacturing developments paved the way for the mass production of materials used in these ornamental designs. Architectural embellishments indicative of Victorian style include turrets, multiple porches, steeply pitched roofs with many gables, scalloped shingles, patterned roofs, and a hodge-podge of expressive arches, hexagons, curves, and other lively shapes.

Some of the most exquisite examples can be seen along the seacoast of New England, and they are delightfully sprinkled throughout the Northeast as well.

Federal Style

Photo courtesy of William Waldron via Architectural Digest

Popular during the early 1800s and prominent throughout New England’s affluent port cities, this stately style was originally a symbol of wealth in urban settings. Inspired by eighteenth-century Greek and Roman architecture, Federal style is best known for its impeccable symmetry, brick facades, and grandiose double-hung windows. The front door is often capped with a semicircular fanlight and then crowned with elaborate molding atop regal columns. A pair of chimneys typically flank each side of the house, punctuating either a gabled or low-grade hip roof. Dentil moldings—or friezes sometimes displaying garlands, swags, urns, lotus buds, medallions, or wheat sheaves—accentuate the windows in ornate Federal-style fashion.

Adirondack Style

Named after the Adirondack Mountains and dating back to the 1800s, this rustic alpine style emits a cozy lodge-like warmth that speaks to all of us. It was amidst this glorious mountain setting that well-heeled East Coast families purchased acres of the breathtaking land within New York’s Adirondack region and built Great Camps—compounds comprising everything from luxury lodges and guest houses to stables and boathouses.

Colors, furnishings, materials, and other details of Adirondack style are always inspired by the surrounding nature and exude a relaxed mountain-getaway vibe. Capture the look with elements like rough-hewn wood ceiling beams, wainscoting, and furniture, twig work, burnished metals, bluestone or slate tiles, fieldstone fireplaces, supple leather upholstery, and sturdy Arts & Crafts décor. And let’s not forget the most iconic element—the Adirondack chair. A classic piece for patios, lawns, and decks, the wood-slatted, straight-backed, and angled-seat chair is perhaps the most recognizable component of Adirondack style.

Exterior hallmarks include rustic timber framing, poplar bark shingled siding, fieldstone foundations, pillars, and chimneys, cedar shake roofs, captivating towers, red window trim, screened sleeping porches, and breezy verandas and porches lined with rustic wood railings. These dreamy retreats offer a place to escape with family and friends—a place to commune with nature and take in the natural beauty of the nearby lakes.

If you’re eager to discover lake living options in the Northeastern region—or anywhere else across the country for that matter—visit Lakehomes.com, select your desired state, and explore to your heart’s content.