Designed as a year-round retreat for a Chicago family of six, the residence bridges a valley between two dunes on the shores of Lake Michigan in Michigan. Siting of the structure was determined in large part by constraints set forth by the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality with its intent of protecting the dunes and construction within them.

The family’s desire was for a building which would immerse them in the landscape with expansive views of the lake, prairie grass and wooded landscape while inside and out. The exterior materials consisting of ipe, copper, weathering and stainless steel were selected for their longevity and low maintenance characteristics as well as their beauty. The interior is similarly durable and low maintenance with its use of pine siding, ipe, basalt floors and counter tops, cork flooring, and translucent glass shower enclosures.

The living and dining rooms are on the first floor with bedrooms and a family room on the second. A separate guest quarter is provided above the garage to the north. The boardwalk which connects the two extends south to the screen porch and beach path beyond.

The interior is conditioned with a geo and solar thermal heating and cooling system. Provisions have been made to accommodate a future wind turbine for power generation.

General Contractor: Lakeshore Enterprises
Structural Engineer: Enspect Engineering
MEP Engineer: Midwestern Engineering
Renewable Energy Consultant: IBC Engineering
Landscape Architect: Green Mansions
Photography: Christopher Barrett