LAKE HOUSE FOR TWO

Situated on a tiny strip of land between the state park and the lake, the property is challenged by tight access and steep slopes but graced with a generous waterline and views of the mountains. The house was designed for a ‘just right’ fit for the owners and their dog. The cabin is an inviting place of respite enjoyed between the adventures of a life focused on getting outside.

The building is envisioned as an eye opening towards the lake and viewshed beyond through a wall of windows. The steel mono-pitch roof drapes seamlessly down the back wall and wings open toward the water and sky. Exaggerated overhangs shelter a wraparound elevated deck that embraces light and water views while providing protection from summer sun and winter storms.

Low maintenance, fire resistant metal siding and roofing clad the building towards the forest. As a visual and tactile contrast to the grey steel, natural wood siding softens the façade abutting the outdoor living areas. The result is a resilient building that stands in visual harmony with its natural setting. The building envelope employs Hone’s high efficiency envelope model including double stud walls, extra attic insulation, airtight construction, and triple pane windows allowing the space to be heated and cooled with a small minisplit and an elegant Stuv wood stove.

The open primary living space feels larger than its 600sf footprint would suggest due to the window wall and the clever use of a partial height free standing partition to visually separate the sleeping area from the living area rather than an enclosed bedroom. A generous mud room and gear garage keeps all the outdoor play equipment packed away but turns out readily for use so that the living spaces stay tidy and focused on a relationship with the lake. Downstairs a walk-out basement offers spillover space for occasional guests and a home gym.