The Owners of a home that had been consumed by the moving dunes of Lake Michigan wanted a home that would not only stand the test of aesthetic time, but survive the vicissitudes of the environment. With the assistance of the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality as well as the consulting civil engineer and the City of Grand Haven Zoning Department, a soil stabilization site plan was developed based on raising the new home’s main floor elevation by almost three feet, implementing erosion studies, screen walls and planting indigenous, drought tolerant xeriscaping. The screen walls, as well as the low profile of the home and the use of sand trapping marrum beachgrass all help to create a wind shadow buffer around the home and reduce blowing sand erosion and accretion. The Owners wanted to minimize the stylistic baggage which consumes most “cottage” residences, and with the Architect created a home with simple lines focused on the view and the natural environment. Sustainable energy requirements on a budget directed the design decisions regarding the SIPs panel insulation, energy systems, roof shading, other insulation systems, lighting and detailing. Easily constructed and linear, the home harkens back to mid century modern pavilions with present day environmental sensitivities and harmony with the site. James Yochum

Example of a large tuscan beige two-story stone flat roof design in Other

William Quarles
Large coastal white two-story concrete fiberboard house exterior idea in Charleston with a hip roof and a metal roof

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This home was designed and built with a traditional exterior with a modern feel interior to keep the house more transitional.
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TruPlace
Example of a large arts and crafts gray two-story mixed siding exterior home design in DC Metro with a shingle roof

This striking glass elevator is proof it is never too late to make your home accessible. The elevator tower was added to the exterior of this multistory house to provide access to all five levels. The combination of the tower’s windows and the windows incorporated into the elevator’s cab lets natural light shine into the home while ensuring the gorgeous view of the private, woodland backyard is never obstructed. This home elevator project was a true marvel that allows the homeowners to age in place and enjoy their beautiful woodland oasis home for many years to come.

Large elegant brown two-story mixed siding house exterior photo in Other with a shingle roof

Daytime view of home from side of cliff. This home has wonderful views of the Potomac River and the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal park. Anice Hoachlander, Hoachlander Davis Photography LLC

Inspiration for a large contemporary brown one-story wood and clapboard house exterior remodel in Los Angeles with a hip roof, a metal roof and a gray roof

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