Sweet Homes
For quite some time, we’ve considered hosting an awards program for Home & Design, and this year the timing seemed right as we committed to a semi-annual home and design section for the magazine. When we put out the call for these awards, we really didn’t know what to expect. We were thrilled to receive over 120 entries!
The projects were all of very high caliber – clearly, there is an abundance of outstanding design talent in this community. That’s good news for homeowners and for you readers, but it made selecting the finalists a challenge. Thankfully, we had the professional insights of the five judges you see on this page to guide us. Judges, our appreciation of your help and wisdom goes beyond words!
On the following pages, you’ll see the first place-
winners in 19 subcategories. To see all of the finalist projects, visit milwaukeemag.com/hdwinners.
On behalf of the Milwaukee Magazine team, congratulations to all the finalists, and my personal thanks goes out to everyone who entered.
– Carole Nicksin, Editor-in-Chief and Publisher
carole@milwaukeemag.com. @CaroleNicksin
It’s time to pick your Milwaukee favorites for the year!
Meet the Judges
Laurie Winters, James and Karen Hyde Executive Director, Museum of Wisconsin Art
Mo Zell, Interim Dean, UW-Milwaukee School of Architecture & Urban Planning
Shoshana Resnikoff, Demmer Curator of 20th- and 21st-Century Design, Milwaukee Art Museum
Elizabeth Rees, Founder, Chasing Paper
Mary Walgren, Interior Design Department Chair, Milwaukee Area Technical College
Outdoors
Deck/Patio/Porch/Pool
GOLD
Iron Jenny Design
Iron Jenny Design also takes top honors for the serene rooftop deck of the Ladder Company No. 5 renovation (as well as for the kitchen, page 54.) Raised planters are used to define the space into activity areas, including an outdoor dining and cooking nook, an expansive green roof and garden, cozy seating and private space for respite (e.g., a soaking tub). Unique architectural elements address the possibility of inhospitable weather conditions, and material selections are durable and low maintenance. “This space redefines the meaning of outdoors,” said one judge, while another dubbed the project “a hidden oasis in the heart of Downtown.”
SILVER
Amy Carman Design
A simple – yet intentional and thoughtful – arrangement and strong sight lines breathe new life into the grounds that surround an existing pool, creating an outdoor oasis likened to a luxurious Italian villa. Planting beds were refreshed, a pergola was repaired and refinished in handsome black, and a tidy line of eight chaise lounges are topped by elegant umbrellas.
Renovation & Remodel
Whole-House Remodel • Historic
GOLD
Iron Jenny Design
Built in 1886 for the Milwaukee Fire Department, this High Victorian, Italianate structure – known as Ladder Company No. 5 – was designed by Sebastian Brand, a Milwaukee firefighter and mason, to house firefighters, ladder trucks, and the horses that pulled the trucks. It was decommissioned and sold to the Paul Kortsch Storage Co. in 1924, when the single combustion engine replaced horses, and, with the exception of the addition of an elevator in 1925, remained unimproved for decades.
The building’s current owners, however, desired a modern, single-family home, and, under the guidance of Wisconsin architect James Stearns, converted the structure into an attractive urban dwelling. Accommodations now include three bedrooms, two-and-a-half baths, living room, storage and utility space, and single-stall garage. The kitchen and an expansive rooftop deck also receive top honors in this contest. Historic photos and the study of similar buildings were used to inform the restoration of the exterior, and long-lost architectural features, including a prominent brick masonry pediment, ornamental metal trim, and custom-manufactured passage and garage doors, were recreated or restored. Modern, energy-efficient windows were installed throughout the building envelope, with the added openings reflecting the shape and style of the original fenestrations, and care was taken to ensure the long-term survival of the monolithic Cream City brick walls.
“This project is a wonderful example of adaptive reuse,” wrote one judge, “and of the kind of creativity that comes from reconsidering historic spaces and working within the boundaries of existing buildings.”
SILVER
Racinowski Design Studio
Originally designed by architect Michael P. Johnson, the midcentury modern home had seen few updates since its construction in 1970. A small galley kitchen was transformed into an enlarged, functional space — and one that is now an extension of the living spaces. Natural materials, including stone and wood, nod to midcentury modern aesthetics, and walnut veneer cabinets and slate tile flooring allow for seamless transitions throughout the remainder of the home.
BRONZE
S.J. Janis Co.
The previously compartmentalized first-floor plan was reworked to improve traffic flow, and a desire to maintain the charm of the 1940s Cape Cod-style home inspired much of the overall aesthetic. Wainscotting, thoughtful details, and increased illumination, from both windows and decorative lighting, abound, and, on the exterior, Lannon stone and lap siding were used to ensure the primary suite and sunroom addition blended seamlessly into the existing structure.
Bath Remodel
GOLD
S.J. Janis Co.
Aimed with the directive to modernize, this bathroom renovation involved the creation of a new, open-concept floor plan in which several half walls were eliminated. A walk-in shower is outfitted with Kohler Refinia plumbing fixtures and a ceiling raincan, and an adjacent freestanding tub, also by Kohler, gives the illusion of a more open entryway. An expansive double vanity features ample storage and counter space, and the floral wallpaper – Serena & Lily’s Priano wallpaper in Sky – softens the room, infusing a touch of color and whimsy into the otherwise neutral design aesthetic. The tile work is subtle yet cohesive, with the floor’s large-scale hexagonal pattern complementing the marble tiles installed in the shower. Crystal and mirrored elements, as seen in the sconces, hardware and mirrors, add a touch of elegance.
SILVER
Three Sixty
Working within the confines of the existing footprint, the formerly dated bathroom was transformed into a serene sanctuary. New flooring, tile and modernized fixtures feature a monochromatic palette, enhancing the brightness and openness of the space, and functionality is vastly improved via a custom-built walnut vanity and storage cabinet.
BRONZE
Mary Best Designs
A blend of various design elements and styles adds unique interest, fusing the past and present in the 1920s-era home. The Greek-patterned floor tile is classic in its appeal, while the walnut vanity nods to midcentury design. Near the tub, wall art injects a bit of humor into the space.
Kitchen Remodel
GOLD
AB&K Bath & Kitchen
To transform this 1980s-era lake home kitchen into a space fit for full-time family life, the renovation required a complete structural rework. A 22-foot laminated beam replaced the original framing, and a partition wall was removed to increase the size of the kitchen. Additional obstructions, including a pantry and a portion of a stone fireplace, were removed as well, allowing for a buffet coffee bar and walk-through to the dining room. Custom-painted, Shaker-style cabinets and polished, marble-look quartz countertops exemplify the light and bright design statement, and a backsplash of oversized subway tiles adds texture and interest. Dark-stained, wood-look floors anchor the neutral finishes, and an abundance of natural light from the windows and skylights – all original to the home – floods the space.
SILVER
Adrian Gilling Design
Vibrant, hand-glazed emerald-green tile is installed floor to ceiling, emphasizing the kitchen’s lofty ceilings and resulting in a jewel-box effect, and satin black cabinetry is accented by knurled brass knobs and drawer pulls. Oversized Buffalo-check tile flooring is both whimsical and timeless, and granite countertops add further drama. The overall visual is bold and refined — and yet intimate and warm, as well, aligning with the classic charm of the historic home.
BRONZE
Deep River Partners
Guided by the homeowners’ desire to emulate the vibe of a high-end hotel, the condominium renovation required the kitchen be drawn to the studs and reconstructed. The floor plan remained untouched, but all other elements were new — and done so in a way that reflects the desired sleek, modern aesthetic. A palette of black, white, and rift-cut white oak are contrasted by metal and concrete accents, and a tucked-away bar provides the ultimate entertaining experience.
Living Room Remodel
GOLD
Amy Carman Design
The top-to-bottom gut renovation of this family lake home established an open and airy layout – and an interior that is approachable and inviting, too. A living room fireplace was relocated to the center of the room to align with the cathedral ceiling, optimizing the space for furniture placement, and white oak beams were introduced to add architectural character. A new hallway entry features a charming arched opening, and an iron railing was installed at the staircase to the lower level, replacing a half wall. “Elegance and family-friendly are often difficult to achieve, but this living room is the perfect blend,” one judge wrote. “The bold architectural choices were smart and impactful – not just from an aesthetic sense, but from a functional-use perspective as well.”
SILVER
Suzan J Designs
The renovation of this first-floor living area required a look beyond the dated elements — and, in turn, the opportunity to see the positive features of the space (e.g., a soaring ceiling, large windows, and a fireplace focal point) and make them shine. An impressive chandelier, proper window treatments, and a reworked fireplace mantel showcase these features, evoking a much more upscale feel, and attractive yet functional seating is both family friendly and inviting.
BRONZE
Farr Interiors
Located on Pewaukee Lake, the main living areas — notably, the living room and dining room — were combined and renovated to create an open-concept space fit for large family gatherings. A custom, 18-foot live-edge mahogany wood table seats up to 18, a carpentry wall detail adds a sense of importance to an otherwise plain wall, and the upholstery is pet-friendly and sun proof.
Kitchen & Bath
Half Bath
GOLD
Peabody’s Interiors
Traditional meets contemporary in this charming powder room. Boldly patterned Schumacher wallpaper makes a dramatic statement, while white wood trim provides balance. Waterworks plumbing fixtures are beautiful yet subtle. A pair of embellished sconces flank the mirror, proving that decorative lighting is truly the “jewelry” of a room. The well-designed space packs an outsized punch that belies its diminutive footprint.
SILVER
Mary Best Designs
Despite its tiny footprint, the renovated powder room exudes personality and charm, combining modern amenities with details that pay homage to the 1920s Tudor. A custom white oak shelf anchors the vanity and vessel sink, and traditional subway tile and marble hex tile adorn the wall and floor. Contrast window trim and ceiling, both painted a complementary shade of blue, frame the cheerful wallpaper, allowing the print to shine.
Mary Best Designs won silver for Half Bath; Photos by Lacy Landre
BRONZE
S.J. Janis Co.
Vibrant, hand-painted wallpaper — reminiscent of the clients’ Florida roots — provides an unexpected pop of color, while more neutral selections, including the stately Kohler pedestal sink, stain-brass faucet, and matte-black, penny-round mosaic floor tile, ground the space. Decorative glass orb sconces and a wood-framed mirror complement the wallpaper.
S.J. Janis Co. won bronze for Half Bath; Photo by Ryan Hainey Photography
Full Bath
GOLD
Refined Renovations
The thoughtful use of one material – in this case, walnut planks – creates a space that is both simple and significant, and serves as a prime example of uncomplicated design. “The walnut wall and ceiling create a warmth and intimacy that is very difficult to achieve in the world of bathroom design,” wrote one judge. A layout rework, which includes an enlarged shower and expanded linen closet, allows natural light to flood the entire room, and smart tech features, such as a ceiling-mounted bath filler/spigot and smart toilet, are equally luxurious and functional.
SILVER
Jessica Jubelirer Design
A prime example of bathroom design that is anything but uniform or trendy, the bathroom features vintage-inspired plumbing fixtures and hand-painted wallpaper. The space is dually timeless and fresh, marrying traditional materials and craftsmanship with a modern outlook.
Jessica Jubelirer Design won silver for Full Bath; Photo by Douglas Friedman
BRONZE
Studio Ehr
Inspired by the midcentury and minimalist aesthetics employed throughout other areas of the home, the bathroom remodel fuses both styles, resulting in a serene atmosphere to unwind and relax. Large-format, gray-toned tile creates a soothing backdrop for the European tub, and a stained cedar ceiling adds warmth and nods to the midcentury pedigree. The homeowners — also design-savvy art collectors — accented the vanity with artist-designed pendants, as well.
Small Kitchen • Modern
GOLD
KMB Design | Consulting
Despite its small footprint, this condominium kitchen is impactful in its design, pairing high-quality finishes with a custom La Cornue stove. “The use of quartzite on the walls visually expands and defines the space,” wrote one judge, “[and] the period-style range creates a strong focal point, while the limited and discrete placement of shelving eliminates visual ‘kitchen clutter.’ Framing the stonework’s veining and coloring with dark cabinetry creates the illusion of an abstract painting nestled in a black frame. It works. It’s small but gorgeous.”
SILVER
J&J Contractors
Modern and sleek in its design, the kitchen remodel involved a wall removal to connect multiple living areas. The waterfall edges on the island and cabinets unify the space, adding interest to an often overlooked feature, and the wood-toned lower cabinetry provides warmth and contrast.
BRONZE
AB&K Bath & Kitchen
A complete structural rework transformed the small, dated kitchen into a bright, adaptable and functional space fit for a young family and multiple cooks. Appliances were reconfigured to create distinct work zones, and a new, large island provides additional prep space. The dropped beam — a required feature due to the existing structure and mechanicals — mirrors a similar header in the family room, infusing the now open-concept space with symmetry and charm.
Small Kitchen • Traditional
GOLD
Amy Carman Design
Formerly dated and compartmentalized, this newly-renovated kitchen is airy and inviting – and packed with modern amenities, too. Pocketing armoire cabinets house countertop appliances, maintaining a clutter-free space, and a suede-finished quartzite countertop and backsplash frame the white enamel Lacanche range. “The soft cream and light wood finishes are a warm and welcome response to the white marble and gray cabinetry we’ve seen everywhere for the past 10 years,” said one judge. “The design team appears to have packed a lot of storage and a lot of purpose in this small footprint.”
SILVER
S.J. Janis Co.
Designed to mimic the existing appeal of the 1940s homes, the kitchen now features an open concept, with appliances relocated for superior functionality. A large, maple island — coated in “Baby Blue Eyes” matte paint, and featuring an overlay-frame style — includes seating for the entire family, and a La Cornue gas range inspired the brass accents (e.g., aged brass cabinet hardware and brass pendant lights and wall sconces) used throughout the space.
BRONZE
RJ Builders
A desire to re-create a vintage-looking kitchen, but with modern-day amenities, drove the design of the space. The vintage stove and hood were to remain, but all other elements of the historic kitchen were removed and remodeled. A black and white color palette provides a neutral backdrop for the homeowners’ collection of antique kitchen accessories, and the butler’s pantry features walnut butcher-block countertops, adding texture and warmth to the space.
Large Kitchen • Modern
Iron Jenny Design
Craftsman-level construction, innovative yet authentic design, and a commitment to functional excellence combine to establish a space that is the literal heart of the home. The galley-style floor plan allows for divided work zones and seamless movement to adjacent areas. “The pink cabinetry is an example of exploiting the existing architecture – in this case, the fact that the kitchen is tucked under a mezzanine and has lower ceilings because of it – to make a warm and inviting space,” wrote one judge, “[and] the choice of reeded glass as a wall separation is an unexpected delight.”
SILVER
Mary Best Designs
Largely inspired by Nordic-Scandinavian design, the remodeled kitchen pairs a minimal aesthetic and warm, neutral color palette with modern functionality and Midwestern sensibilities. White oak cabinets are equally luxurious and casual, and the island’s terrazzo-inspired countertop blends seamlessly with the black-honed granite of the perimeter. A clean-lined faucet and sleek cabinet hardware further embody the Nordic design directive.
Mary Best Designs won silver for Large Kitchen – Modern; Photos by Lacy Landre
BRONZE
Three Sixty
Featuring an entirely reworked floor plan, the kitchen is a marriage of natural materials and modern aesthetics. A soapstone countertop and Roman clay, upper-wall backdrop were welcomed selections by the client, an artist who values patina and handmade elements, and custom-made walnut cabinets provide form and function. The sleek steel hood, also custom made, offers both powerful performance and understated appeal.
Large Kitchen • Traditional
GOLD
Jessica Jubelirer Design
Located in Lake Country, this kitchen incorporates the best of modern functionality (e.g., a separate butler’s pantry) into timeless, classic design. Craftsmanship and handmade materials create a functional and artistic result – and one that is deeply personal and unique, rather than trendy. “I appreciate the commitment to tile throughout the kitchen, and particularly how it covers not only the walls, but ceiling as well,” one judge wrote. “It’s a fun reference to Victorian kitchens and the rise of ‘hygienic’ spaces in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.”
SILVER
Natasa Jones Interiors
A complete layout rework transformed the kitchen into a space that is now open and inviting — and aesthetically pleasing and functional, too. The warm wood of the Amish-made cabinetry and soft-gray tone of the island create an interesting contrast, evoking a warm yet moody feel.
BRONZE
Amy Carman Design
Designed with entertaining in mind, the renovated kitchen features dual islands with distinct functions: one for meal preparation, and the other dedicated to dining and socializing. The custom range hood, which is finished in black enamel with polished nickel straps and brass rivets, is the clear centerpiece of the space, and the brass pendants add a touch of glamor.
Décor
Primary Bedroom
GOLD
Twig & Trove Interior Design
Aimed to serve as a respite from everyday life, this primary suite reflects the nature of the wooded lot outdoors, as well as the history of the 1911 home. Layered materials soften the space, and a subdued wallpaper with an avian pattern adds a touch of shine to an otherwise organic room. “The decor balances warmth with light, and the mohair headboard is a quiet standout,” one judge wrote.
SILVER
Mary Best Designs
The color palette of this primary bedroom was largely derived from an existing architectural feature — in this case, restored Cream City brick – and honing in on salmon, gold and ivory. Varying textures, such as wool drapes and burlwood nightstands, add depth, and the four-poster Mahogany bed reflects and accentuates the prominence of the tall ceiling.
BRONZE
Brooke Winter
Rich, natural colors, a board-and-batten accent wall, and black and gold accents combine to create a simple yet cozy primary oasis inspired by the homeowners’ fondness for nature. A colorful painting by Wisconsin artist Evie Grasse complements the color scheme of the room.
Specialty Room • Basement
GOLD
Amy Carman Design
A true hub of all-out fun and entertainment, this lower level is packed with features, from two full-length, automated bowling lanes to a full-sized movie screen and fully stocked bar. “The aesthetic has a retro vibe that takes you back to summers at the lake or your best friend’s basement,” one judge wrote. “The personal touches (e.g., tiled logo, bowling alley signage) prove that the designer was listening and truly understood their client.”
SILVER
Jessica Jubelirer Design
A noticeable departure from its more traditional counterparts, the lower level of this lake cottage embodies the visual power of timeless craftsmanship, serves as a unique and artistic expression of a bowling space, and is a whimsical gathering place for family members and friends.
BRONZE
Refined Renovations
The basement build is the trifecta blend of approachable, swanky, and comfortable — a space that is family friendly, but also suitable for entertaining. Brass inlay details and a custom-designed fireplace add warmth, figuratively and literally, and a motorized pocket door, designed to hide storage areas and the workout room, is practical yet innovative.
Living Room • Modern
GOLD
Amy Carman Design
Creating an engaging, modern interior requires careful editing and a willingness to take risks, and this living space delivers, evoking a vibe that is highly refined – but brimming with livability and warmth, too. A tailored sectional frames the board-formed concrete fireplace, and a built-in bookcase, constructed from rift sawn white oak, houses a television, books and accessories. Cocktail tables with tree-trunk-shaped bases nod to the home’s wooded surroundings.
SILVER
Kate Kazlo Interiors
Despite its traditional architectural features, the renovated living room now exudes modern style — and in a manner that is both sophisticated and current, while honoring the original details of the space. The color palette is simple, and interest is created through furniture lines and finishes, as well as textured fabrics. A centrally-placed chandelier creates drama from every entry.
BRONZE
Stone House Collective
Modern styling and the clever use of neutral tones create a living space that is both contemporary and timeless, and a pair of built-in cabinets is carefully filled with a curated collection of accessories. Shape and size are skillfully balanced throughout the decor and furnishings to create a visually dynamic yet harmonious flow, and layered rugs add a texture and a subtle pop of color.
Dining Room
GOLD
Suzan J Designs
As one of the first spaces one sees when entering the condo, this dining room makes a statement that is both elegant and bold. The wallpaper, which features the alphabet in script, is perhaps the star of this room – and an interesting conversation piece, too. One judge was impressed by how the dark, rustic furniture and smaller, refined details combine to “create a level of layered interest.”
SILVER
Suzan J Designs
Traditional yet exuding a modern vibe, the renovated dining room is the embodiment of understated elegance. The client’s affinity for crystal is reflected in the delicate chandelier, and the acrylic window hardware and modern mirror offset the traditional nature of the room.
BRONZE
Farr Interiors
A clean, uncluttered approach showcases the expansive views of Lake Michigan, and high-style edge — perhaps best represented by the dining room’s bold red table, complemented by the adjacent “Miss Dior” mosaic — is used to refresh the home’s previously dated interior.
Living Room • Traditional
GOLD
Twig & Trove Interior Design
Thoughtful layering of antique and contemporary pieces creates an approachable and inviting living space, and colors and patterns pay homage to the home’s previous life as a hunting lodge. “The mix of colors and textures could have been jarring, but they all work together to create a warm and cohesive environment,” one judge wrote. “The touch of local – Milwaukee artist Allison B. Cooke’s painting over the mantel – grounds this space in the here and now.”
SILVER
Stone House Collective
The juxtaposition of old and new — in this case, the integration of a vintage rug into a modern interior — creates rich visual contrast, infusing character into the living room of this new build. A combination of warm brown tones and gold accents adds elegance and depth to the space.
Stone House Collective won silver for Décor – Living Room – Traditional; Photo by Ryan Hainey Photography
BRONZE
Stone House Collective
An abundance of natural light floods into this living room, and thoughtful design choices, such as performance fabrics and the addition of tall greenery, enhance its durability for day-to-day living. Skillful composition is best represented by the coffee table, where a visually appealing arrangement of various decor pieces and accessories captivates the eye.
Architecture & New Construction
Architecture
GOLD
Johnsen Schmaling Architects
Located on a narrow, formerly vacant parcel on Milwaukee’s Lower East Side, The Curtain House, a private residence, reimagines the typological conventions of urban infill dwellings with its strikingly contemporary – yet respectful and carefully intentional – design. The home is distributed on three levels, matching the ridge height of the adjacent structures, and its street-facing facade, which is composed of tightly spaced vertical louvers, was conceived as a playful take on the ubiquitous drapes that adorn residential windows. The louvers form a continuous screen that stretches across the entire elevation, functioning as both a privacy screen and a sun-shading device. “The house is a bold addition to a dense neighborhood,” wrote one judge, “and it manages the challenge of fitting in and standing out at the same time.”
SILVER
Racinowski Design Studio
Designed with the client’s passion for midcentury modern architecture top of mind, the custom home is oriented lengthwise toward the south to achieve a passive solar design. Meaningful connections to the outdoors, such as the living and dining rooms’ floor-to-ceiling windows, produce light-filled spaces, and low thresholds and wide door openings permit aging in place.
BRONZE
Galbraith Carnahan Architects
The custom project, dubbed “Gallery Shed,” fulfills the homeowner’s lifelong dream of living among their impressive art collection. Its unconventional, modern design is both budget conscious and sustainable, providing a seamless integration into the surrounding rural landscape, and the home’s straightforward shape allows for simple expansion of the structure.
New Construction
GOLD
Ruebl Builders
With a design-to-build timeframe of just over two years, this custom lake home embodies the rustic mountain lodge style that is sweeping the design industry. (It’s apparent that “Colorado Chic” is in, and “Farmhouse Style” is out, one judge said.) Custom wood and metal details abound on the exterior, providing interest and depth, and the deep-red hue framing the windows is an unexpected yet aesthetically pleasing detail. The white oak timber frame is both elegant and inviting, and stone sourced from Montana pays homage to the mountain lodge aesthetic.
SILVER
Berg Development
A picture of luxury lake living, the 11,000-square-foot home replaces a previous structure on Okauchee Lake, and features modern, open floor plans, and functional yet resort-like outdoor spaces. High ceilings and large windows maximize views of the lake, and high-end amenities include a movie theater, interactive HD golf simulator, and dry sauna and steam room.
BRONZE
J&J Custom Homes
The ranch-style home marries form and function, pairing a high-end aesthetic with the necessities of everyday living. Custom details, including a walnut accent wall in the dining room and a floor-to-ceiling fireplace, abound, and luxurious features — e.g., a lower-level wine cellar, butler’s pantry, and 1,050-square-foot canted garage — add to the home’s appeal.
Vacation Home
GOLD
Amy Carman Design
A departure from the traditional lodge-style homes found in northern Wisconsin, and a collaboration between the design firm and Vetter Architects, this modern home is a true family oasis, perched on a bluff overlooking a lake frequented for generations. Floor-to-ceiling windows and modern furnishings are paired with rustic finishes, evoking a vibe that is equally refined and approachable, and a wood-burning fireplace features a surround inspired by the hand-built stone silos found on rural Wisconsin farms. A custom-made, live-edge dining table seats up to 12, and walls clad in rift-sawn white oak are juxtaposed by bold accents, like the sculptural David Weeks chandelier or patina-laden steel range hood. “The architecture nods to midcentury modernism, but is completely open and welcoming,” said one judge, and “the furnishings are a perfect match.”
SILVER
Racinowski Design Studio
Located on a large, secluded site along Lake Michigan, the contemporary home was designed to open up to lake views and a private beach, while preserving the forest landscape of the site. An abundance of natural materials, such as Fond du Lac stone, thermally-modified ash siding, urban ash ceilings, and exposed Douglas Fir beams, are used throughout both the exterior and interior — and a seamless connection is created between the two.
BRONZE
Think Design
The Craftsman-style lake home fits into the terrain of the surrounding Kettle Moraine State Forest, with craft construction — e.,g., timber frames, traditional wood joinery, and stone masonry — blending the built environment and natural landscape. A family vacation getaway, the home features large gathering spaces, a timber-framed screen porch, and interior grill room. Each window affords a view of either the lake or the landscape that surrounds it, as well.
