Northshore Residence
Shoreline Retreat
Located on the beautiful shore of Lake Michigan on a rare, nearly level site, this modern residence is nestled among majestic dunes and native beach grass, embracing both the serenity and drama of its setting. With very little elevation change between the home and the water, the design takes full advantage of its uncommon proximity to the shoreline. The clients envisioned a modern retreat that would capture expansive lake views while maintaining privacy from neighboring properties.
Hear from the Architect.
“The Northshore Residence is the result of the application of years of design experimentation and learning. The home is shaped as an “H” to as a way of creating spaces that still feel private and intimate within the context of a much larger home.”
Eric De Witt, Principal
Plan Concept
An H-shaped plan subtly blocks adjacent sightlines and creates a protected central courtyard anchored by a tranquil reflecting pool. This configuration allows the home to open generously toward the lake while forming intimate outdoor spaces at its core.
Glass Lakefront Living
Stretching along the rugged shoreline, the layout maximizes interaction with the water. Primary living spaces line the lake façade, wrapped in glass to frame uninterrupted views and blur the boundary between indoors and out. Solid walls and clerestory windows shield the home from the road, while monolithic brick clad fireplaces anchor the transparent living volumes.
The primary suite is a secluded upper floor retreat for the owners.
The space is designed to have uninterrupted panoramic views of the summer storms rolling across the lake, or the freighters silently gliding by. The space is designed to have uninterrupted panoramic views of the summer storms rolling across the lake, or the freighters silently gliding by. Floor to ceiling glass is cleverly detailed to minimize visual interruptions while also hiding roller shades for privacy when needed. A coffee bar is concealed just off the sleeping space for the early mornings.
Project Details
Design Team
Eric De Witt, Jaric Pope, Collin Ingalls
Location
Saugatuck, MI
Features
Cantilevered bedroom, 16′ wide fireplace, modern curtain wall glass, custom stair, bowling alley, climate isolated outdoor living room, pool, Critical Dune, brick, relecting pools
Collaborators
Construction
Interior
Landscape
Photography
Tysen Kay
Eric De Witt
