A Jewel Box by the Water
The idea was simple, downsize and retire to the family camp in the islands. However the family camp was not suitable for year round habitation and the nonconforming site left little options available for reconstruction.
Despite the challenges with zoning, the steep grade and narrow site (less than 50’) our team was able to work with the home owner to achieve their retirement dreams. Their goal was to create an energy efficient, low maintenance “jewel box by the water”. With cues taken from craftsman and mission style, this modest home met each challenge and realized the home owner’s design criteria.
As space was limited, the design opted to use structurally insulated panels at 4.5” thick, allowing for as much interior square footage as possible without sacrificing performance. Insulated concrete forms and SIPs roof panels completed the framing and insulation packages, allowing the entire shell to be erected in 2 weeks. This tight envelope, combined with high efficiency fixtures, a suite of LED lighting and an efficient window/door package were some of the details that helped this home meet the requirements for the Energy Star Program.
A standing seam roof and prefinished cedar siding coupled with good building practice help to minimize exterior maintenance. While a detail oriented interior works toward creating cozy, intimate spaces punctuated with visual treasures. The medallion inlay of the tiled entry was oriented to magnetic north with a family heirloom compass. An antique furniture item was converted into the powder room vanity and its graceful undulating façade is accentuated by the new solid surface top. The metal handrail of the main stair acts as a focal point that draws you up to the second floor through a stairway art gallery appointed with malleable LED fixtures. The upper level is comprised of two modest bedrooms, a master bath of clean contemporary details and a conveniently located laundry closet. The finished basement provides direct access to the back lawn by way of a walk out sliding door and functions as an artist’s studio. The living space is completed with the lakeside screened in porch that connects directly to the living room by way of a 12’ wide sliding door. Maximum views of the lake are achieved by utilizing a cable rail system and large unobstructed sections of screen. With the slider open to the porch, the outdoors seemingly becomes an integrated part of the home.
This jewel box by the water will be enjoyed by the home owners for years to come.
