Context
Originally a 1920’s cottage, the existing structure on this gorgeous lakefront property had been crushed by record snowfalls and condemned upon inspection. The client wanted an energy-efficient, durable, and economical new home, and they were eager to not miss a minute of family time spent on the lake.
Our watchwords were “efficiency,” “economy,” and “eco-friendly.” We knew we’d need to work on an expedited schedule so the family wouldn’t lose time on the water. We also needed to meld the existing site characteristics into a working floor plan that would meet the stringent zoning guidelines in this protected shoreland setting. And we wanted to build the most beautiful home possible without going over $100 per square foot.
Response
A gentle L-shaped structure runs parallel to the shoreline and reaches out toward the grand vistas of the lake, offering full perspectives of the Presidential mountain range. We pulled the home back slightly from the water to allow a more natural buffer of vegetation and make better use of the space. The light, open design takes full advantage of the site’s view, sun path, and setting. Family members can walk out of a ground-level door and be on the lakefront dock in just a few steps, inviting family time on the water inside the home and out.
With the homeowner acting as his own general contractor, the final cost per square foot was just $96. Dense-packed, dry-blown cellulose insulation makes this house significantly more airtight than typical homes, and we used locally harvested and milled white pine extensively throughout the home.
