Client:  Undisclosed

Location:  Michigan

Completion:  1995

*Work developed and completed with Lorri Sipes at Architects Four, Inc.

Project Description: 
 
Set in a wooded area, on a small lake, the house was designed as a modest 1960's weekend get away and was purchased with the intent to transform it into a permanent residence.

The addition and renovation was meant to keep with the spirit of the existing house as well as to uplift and enhance it.  The design of the addition was to take advantage of the sloping grade and decidedly orient the house and rooms to the natural views to the lake.  The bedroom and enclosed porch volume was lifted from the sloping grade on pilotis-like columns in the spirit of a 'tree house.'

Structurally, the house was originally built with a post and lintel system of wood timbers, but conventional walls were built between the columns as partitions creating a cellular layout.  The new layout was to both align with the existing structural grid and at the same time replan the walls to acheive open space vis a vis, the free plan.

A central, 'atrium like' space with a spiral stair was converted to create a new dining room bathed in natural light. The kitchen; enlarged, modernized and located adjacent to an outdoor grilling area with access to grade.
 
The lower level was replanned for guest rooms, recreation and wine storage.  A circulation 'bridge' complete with the new stair, connects the existing house to the addition and is meant to be a transparent element with glass on either side.

The new rooms were designed with floor to structure glass complete with a fully corner glazed lite in the master suite.