Estimated reading time: 8 minutes
Photography: Trent Bell, Trent Bell Photography
Architecture: Whitten Architects
Landscape Architect: Richardson & Associates
Structural Engineer: Shelley Engineering
LEED Certification Consultant: Context Green
Sparkling on the shoreline like a jewel in the snow, this half-acre property in New Hampshire celebrates all the natural splendor that is Lake Winnipesaukee. As the Native American name Winnipesaukee translates to “beautiful water in a high place,” this breathtaking setting undoubtedly befits its description. Designed by Whitten Architects based in Portland, Maine, with principal Russ Tyson leading the project, the dwelling was initially created to serve as a frequent escape for a couple approaching retirement. Eventually, they plan to make this dreamy destination their permanent home, which they have affectionately named “Camp Stew.”
“We designed a new efficient, highly crafted, low-maintenance, four-season home with outside living spaces that embrace the site’s natural features,” says Russ. “Our clients wanted their new home to be different from the suburban-styled houses that have recently dominated the neighborhood.”
Site-Specific Design
A site-specific design allows family and visitors’ cars to be discreetly tucked away at the east end of the property. “On approach, a welcoming entry porch shelters the gap between the house and garage and serves as a gateway, separating public spaces from private ones,” says Rob Whitten, founder and principal of Whitten Architects.
This small, half-acre parcel of land sits at the end of a long, quiet drive lined with small properties and camps. “It is a shady site with large pines to the south and wooded, undeveloped conservation land to the north,” Russ explains. “The property is located on what is called ‘the broads’ of Lake Winnipesaukee, and they get a ton of wind from the west in the afternoon. When the wind picks up, there’s an intimate courtyard to retreat to between the house and the garage.”
Protected Pathway
The welcoming entry path moves toward the front door along the edge of an outdoor room between the house, garage, and tree line to the north. This intimate space, complete with native hardscape and vegetation, offers protection from lake winds while also giving shady refuge on hot summer days.
“We intentionally located the garage at the head of the long, thin lot while carefully positioning a pergola at the end of a long porch that leads to the front door and links the garage to the house,” says Russ. “The pergola serves as an inviting beacon to guide visitors to the front door while moving through the edge of the courtyard under cover.”
Snow Gear Storage
A convenient side door opens onto a mudroom, creating a handy buffer space between the harsh elements and the cozy interior spaces. A durable slate tile floor can withstand them all—from ice and snow to rain and mud—and an array of spacious built-ins stores seasonal gear and apparel. A creamy white palette with a beadboard ceiling and walls gives the space an element of cottage charm, and a built-in desk cove adds to the room’s efficiency and quaint appeal.
Winter Warmth
“Even though it is comprised of cozy, right-sized spaces, the main level feels open and spacious — at once, both big and small,” Rob explains. “The central fireplace divides living from dining and serves as the heart of the home.”
The design team organized the floor plan and windows to take advantage of the natural light and focus on the beautiful outdoor vistas while avoiding the views of the neighboring properties. In keeping with the lake vernacular, the rich woods used on both the interior and exterior reflect the natural surroundings. “On cold winter days, the stone fireplace and hearth sit between the dining space and living room to provide plenty of warmth while not compromising the view across the frozen lake,” notes Russ.
Clean-lined and substantial arts and crafts-style wood furniture pieces balance beautifully with rustic stone accents, and a layering of patterned fabrics brings a sense of cozy comfort to this family gathering place.
Rustic Refinement
Visible from the kitchen, the massive stone fireplace that defines the dining area connects the rooms visually and introduces a textural element that counterbalances the otherwise smooth surfaces. The open stairway adds architectural interest to the home’s open-concept floor plan. Scenic views of the outdoors can be experienced almost anywhere throughout the house.
“The interior architecture and fittings we selected for their ability to meet LEED certification guidelines and add a modern flare to the rustic palette,” notes Russ. “High-performance insulation, energy-efficient systems, and extensive use of durable and local building materials all contribute to the sustainability of the project.”
Kitchen Comfort
The central hub of the kitchen, an angled island with a cooktop accommodates space for food preparation and intimate meals. Sweeping views from all sides invite the landscape in, creating a spectacular backdrop for all four seasons. The dining area just off the kitchen offers another gathering spot for family dinners, entertaining, and games.
Cottage Charm
Wrapped in beadboard, the upstairs bedroom gives the owners a serene retreat with stunning lake views from a generous wall of windows. The angled ceiling and fireplace create a cozy ambiance that cocoons overnight guests in warmth and comfort.
Cleverly Compact
The angled walls of the primary bathroom did not hinder its innovative design. Tucked into the back wall, the shower conforms to the ceiling angle and allows for a long bathtub that sits under an expanse of windows. A double-sink vanity adds to the luxurious spa-like vibe, and an unexpected tiny window at floor level allows natural light to illuminate the slate tile.
Shoreline Splendor
In 2010, this home was awarded LEED Gold certification. To further this effort and to tie it to the region, Whitten Architects used locally sourced New England materials wherever possible. The exterior siding is clad in Eastern white cedar shingles and vertical red pine board and batten. All the flooring is locally sourced red birch wood and slate tile.
“We worked to create a variety of interior and exterior spaces that could suit different activities and times of day, says Russ. The waterfront open porch features a long view across the lake, and the owners love it for morning coffee. For less comfortable days, we created a three-season porch just a few steps from the kitchen and interior dining space. The overall forms, shapes, and even the colors of the building echo the historic local camps and cottages that dot the lake’s shorefront.”
Are you interested in finding or building your dream home on Lake Winnipesaukee or other lake regions in the country? Visit Lake Homes Realty to begin your search and enjoy the lake life!
