The design for Jim and Regina’s home on Oseetah Lake (connected to lower Saranac Lake in NY) is affectionately referred to as a modern take on Adirondack style architecture. Oseetah Lake is well-known for paddling and fishing, as it has a mean depth of 3 ft. This build site is one of nine lots on a 500 acre privately owned natural preserve around the lake. The home will be situated on a small swale off a ridge with lake views.
The couple referenced both contemporary and traditional mountain style architecture as they described their vision to our team. Adding to our road map for design was their design questionnaire – one of the most thoroughly completed we have ever received. These questionnaires are an invaluable tool when we’re beginning the design process. Many thanks to Jim and Regina for sharing their time and attention to detail!
The resulting first draft plan is very open with with overlapping living spaces. The form of the home calls for opposing sweeping lines in a contemporary, ‘lighter’ timber frame full of natural light and lake views.
Starting with the entry the home shrugs tradition with a “void” of space rather than an outreaching covered porch. Immediately upon entering, the plans call for a 90 degree turn that open to lake scenery and, as one steps further in, it becomes capacious, with clear volumes to upper level. Planning focused on eliciting views and letting the space grow as one progresses deeper within the home.
In total the home is about 2,650 sq ft. It will primarily be a two-person residence as the couple enters a ‘work from home, transitioning to retirement’ phase of life. A full-time home office will occupy a ‘tower’ and provide space for various work and play interests. For visiting guests, there are two guest bedrooms and a few spaces that could serve as additional accommodations when the house is full.
Jim and Regina are avid outdoors people and, of course, enjoy paddling. Approximately half the lower level of their home will provide storage for outdoor gear and paddle needs. There will be space for several water vessels with walk-out access to the lake.
It is always a privilege to work with homeowners to help bring their dream projects to fruition. We’ve passed through the beginning Schematic Designs with Jim and Regina and we’re excited to see their home continue to take shape and evolve through each step of the design process.
