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Lake to city views: On the Boards with our Design Group

Take a peek into some custom timber frame home plans from our design + build team.

 
On the lake in New York:
Rendering of timber frame exterior of lake home design project.

The narrow, tapering site in the Finger Lakes Region of NY presented a challenge for maximizing views of Canandaigua Lake. Following the setback as closely as possible for the bedrooms while pushing the layout in on each side of the living space gave way for a large deck as well as private deck space access with lake views from each bedroom. 

Taking a bit of inspiration from Pacific Northwest and modern architectural styles, opposing shed roofs help lower the overall mass of the southern facing side of this home, allow for high windows between the roofs, shade from summer sun (yet allow winter sun in), and shelter the main level deck.

Timber frame lake home design entry view with garage.

A covered porch forms the welcoming entry leading to a tall vestibule with a quick corner turn to glimpses the surrounding landscape, then into a light-filled hallway with picture frame views of the lake. Approaching the common area the views keep expanding until you are immersed in the living space. 

The full-time family home will be around 2,800 sq ft with planned space for multiple generations and guests.

On the front range in Colorado:
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Very clean and very modern, plans for this home utilize the timber frame to soften the material palette and bring a sense of balance to the hard concrete and steel. The steep slope makes for naturally expansive views of Denver, Colorado in the distance. 

Timber frame home rendering interior living areas colorado

Energy efficiency is well-known to these folks as their parents/in-laws built a “solar home” in the 70’s. Plans for the new home include a separate ADU which appears to be balanced on ‘branching’ timber posts with multiple braces. The space below is open yet sheltered and will be key to one of the other important drivers of this project: entertaining. 

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Looking for more on the design process? Our recorded webinar “Drake Talks: The home within you” offers a conversation about designing your home with Ty Allen, AIA, Design/Build Manager and David Shirley, AIA, lead architect.