Many creative, space-maximizing design elements went into this home’s updated traditional lake house look. The main level of the home is 1,500 square feet, but it lives big. A pub-height butcher block table in the kitchen can slide in and out of the marble top island to accommodate more seating. The dining room is uniquely designed as a part of the stairs. The main level features a flexible den space tucked behind sliding barn doors that can be converted into a guest bedroom. Amory is a great example of a small home on a narrow lot, jam-packed with creativity and unique features.

With a carefully laid out floor plan, this lakefront cottage skillfully fits four bedrooms and three and a half bathrooms in an efficient 2700 square feet. Wrapping around the rear of this cottage is an expansive covered porch designed for entertaining and enjoying shaded summer breezes. Bayridge is an efficient yet luxurious Lake Leelanau getaway.

This unique project was one home designed for two families. The goal was to make the space functional for both families while preserving the integrity of the design. The result is a clean yet aggressive design emphasizing comfortable living for both parents and kids. Dual owner suites are situated on the main level with access to gorgeous views and outdoor living spaces. The cottage also offers plenty of bedrooms for the children on a separate level along with a variety of areas to gather, relax, and enjoy recreation.

Symmetry and traditional sensibilities drive Ellerton’s stately style. The walkout rear elevation is covered by a paired column gallery that is connected to the main level’s living, dining, and master bedroom. The beautiful and expansive kitchen island seats seven. The attached garage has its own separate staircase connecting it to the lower level as well as the bonus room above.

Featuring a classic H-shaped plan and minimalist details, the Winston was designed with the modern family in mind. This home carefully balances a sleek and uniform façade with more contemporary elements. This balance is best noticed when looking at the home on an axis with the front or rear doors. In all rooms, preferential treatment is given to maximize exposure to the rear yard, making this a perfect lakefront home.

The Shipton is a Shingle style house with elements of classic American lake cottages. Symmetrically designed exterior elevations are reinforced by a thoughtfully divided floor plan that separates entertainment and private spaces. Upon entering the home, you are greeted with a two-story floor-to-ceiling view of the lake beyond.

The Gables was born when a client of Visbeen Architects asked for something exceptional on a small but personally significant lakefront lot. Unique solutions were employed to achieve their objective, including a 10-foot-deep lower level. This feat of engineering required a custom pump system to keep lake water out of the house but also made room for a home theater, family rooms, extra bedrooms, and additional entertainment areas, which were finished beautifully by Vision Interiors.

This home goes down in history as one of Visbeen Architects’ first transitional designs. Inspired by the homeowners’ travels, the house displays a Prairie-style element while combining Asian influence with a West Coast aesthetic. In addition, the firm updated the style linearly, adding large horizontal lines and deep overhangs. The transparent garage doors and large glass panels add a further contemporary element. These style choices have become very popular since the home was built.

Despite working within tight build constraints, this lakefront cottage is an iconic home that lives large by using every inch of available space. The front elevation was extended to create a large, graceful dormer, providing additional interior space. An inverted stair tower adds interest and visual depth to the side elevation while enlarging the internal landing. Here, pocket doors lead to a bonus home office.

Bayside clients spent years updating an existing onsite residence before asking Visbeen Architects to re-envision their home. They had previously added to the house and cultivated a wonderfully landscaped yard but wanted to expand the footprint by utilizing a more efficient, functional layout.