LAKE VIEW MODERN

Lakefront lots are highly coveted but come with a challenge, they beg for state-of-the-art homes that boast exquisite views. True. The house needed to be an architectural gem, but it was a simple request of the Owners that resonated; they wanted a house that was “comfortable and livable”.

The house is simple, two volumes, one overlooking the lake, the other facing the land. The lakeside box holds the main living spaces including an Entrance Gallery, a Kitchen, Breakfast and TV Room, a Screened Porch, a Dining Room, a Lounge, and two Offices. The Master Suite and the wife’s workspace were located on the second floor, and above that we located a Yoga Studio to celebrate the dramatic views of the lake and for morning sunrise salutations. And perhaps it is the staircase that is one of the most important features, with its floating treads, that becomes art.

Because of the views, precise window placement was important. We introduced a canted glass wall in the Kitchen to blend the cantilevered ceiling with an exterior overhang. The Lounge’s transparency showcases the water through the house from the Entry Court, and a Gallery wall puts an art collection on view, bordered by a garden that boasts a cast-bronze by internationally acclaimed artist Jaume Plensa.

Many sustainable initiatives were incorporated including a geothermal mechanical system and overhangs which were precisely calculated to allow maximum sunshine in the winter and shading in the summer. Interiors were kept clean-lined and minimal, but with personality, including a couple of chunky Lounge club chairs in lipstick red and purple. 

Scope
Architecture + Interior Architecture

Collaborators

Contractor: Sylvester Construction Services, Inc.

Interior Design: Shafer Crowe | Architecture + Design LLC

Landscape Architect: Scott Byron & Company

Photography
Steve Hall, Hall + Merrick + McCaugherty Photographers

Completed
2014

Featured
Luxe Chicago