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. Photos by John Allegretti

embarked on this whole home renovation project to modernize yet preserve the home’s architectural beauty. Our client’s fell in love with the structure’s stone facade and medieval stained glass windows, but the primary suite was small and the kitchen was not suitable for modern day living. Eliminating existing walls and revising the space planning was a key aspect of this project. We implemented rustic beams and dramatic pops of color to accent the original stone and wrought iron elements. The project included all new windows, refinished hardwood floors, mechanical upgrades, and full renovations to the kitchen, bathrooms, and 2ndfloor fireplaces tile work.

Located at a prominent corner on one of the few undeveloped residential sites left in Solana Beach, this project is important not only for the homeowner, but for the community as well. A rigorous site analysis laid the groundwork for a design response which took into account the homeowner’s program, input from the neighbors, and the scale of the project and the character of the neighborhood. The end result is a design that is well set into the existing grade, a move which preserves adjacent views and reduces the visual impact of the structure from the street; all while graciously meeting the desires of the owner. The plan is broken into six unique floor plates. The bottom four of which tie together along the gradually sloping site. An intentionally long southern exposure implements the basics of passive solar design: large amounts of glass bring in abundant light and warmth in the winter, while deep overhangs protect from unwanted summer heat gain. Ocean views to the west are selectively framed throughout the house without compromising privacy from the busy street corner. Public functions within the house flow seamlessly between indoor and outdoor living spaces. JLC Architecture was responsible for a full architecture and interior package as well as exterior hardscape design.

Located at a prominent corner on one of the few undeveloped residential sites left in Solana Beach, this project is important not only for the homeowner, but for the community as well. A rigorous site analysis laid the groundwork for a design response which took into account the homeowner’s program, input from the neighbors, and the scale of the project and the character of the neighborhood. The end result is a design that is well set into the existing grade, a move which preserves adjacent views and reduces the visual impact of the structure from the street; all while graciously meeting the desires of the owner. The plan is broken into six unique floor plates. The bottom four of which tie together along the gradually sloping site. An intentionally long southern exposure implements the basics of passive solar design: large amounts of glass bring in abundant light and warmth in the winter, while deep overhangs protect from unwanted summer heat gain. Ocean views to the west are selectively framed throughout the house without compromising privacy from the busy street corner. Public functions within the house flow seamlessly between indoor and outdoor living spaces. JLC Architecture was responsible for a full architecture and interior package as well as exterior hardscape design.

Located at a prominent corner on one of the few undeveloped residential sites left in Solana Beach, this project is important not only for the homeowner, but for the community as well. A rigorous site analysis laid the groundwork for a design response which took into account the homeowner’s program, input from the neighbors, and the scale of the project and the character of the neighborhood. The end result is a design that is well set into the existing grade, a move which preserves adjacent views and reduces the visual impact of the structure from the street; all while graciously meeting the desires of the owner. The plan is broken into six unique floor plates. The bottom four of which tie together along the gradually sloping site. An intentionally long southern exposure implements the basics of passive solar design: large amounts of glass bring in abundant light and warmth in the winter, while deep overhangs protect from unwanted summer heat gain. Ocean views to the west are selectively framed throughout the house without compromising privacy from the busy street corner. Public functions within the house flow seamlessly between indoor and outdoor living spaces. JLC Architecture was responsible for a full architecture and interior package as well as exterior hardscape design.

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

Marvista Design + Build embarked on this whole home renovation project to modernize yet preserve the home’s architectural beauty. Our client’s fell in love with the structure’s stone facade and medieval stained glass windows, but the primary suite was small and the kitchen was not suitable for modern day living. Eliminating existing walls and revising the space planning was a key aspect of this project. We implemented rustic beams and dramatic pops of color to accent the original stone and wrought iron elements. The project included all new windows, refinished hardwood floors, mechanical upgrades, and full renovations to the kitchen, bathrooms, and 2nd floor fireplaces tile work.

This house was designed to maintain clean sustainability and durability. Minimal, simple, modern design techniques were implemented to create an open floor plan with natural light. The entry of the home, clad in wood, was created as a transitional space between the exterior and the living spaces by creating a feeling of compression before entering into the voluminous, light filled, living area. The large volume, tall windows and natural light of the living area allows for light and views to the exterior in all directions. This project also considered our clients' need for storage and love for travel by creating storage space for an Airstream camper in the oversized 2 car garage at the back of the property. As in all of our homes, we designed and built this project with increased energy efficiency standards in mind. Our standards begin below grade by designing our foundations with insulated concrete forms (ICF) for all of our exterior foundation walls, providing the below grade walls with an R value of 23. As a standard, we also install a passive radon system and a heat recovery ventilator to efficiently mitigate the indoor air quality within all of the homes we build.

Marvista Design + Build embarked on this whole home renovation project to modernize yet preserve the home’s architectural beauty. Our client’s fell in love with the structure’s stone facade and medieval stained glass windows, but the primary suite was small and the kitchen was not suitable for modern day living. Eliminating existing walls and revising the space planning was a key aspect of this project. We implemented rustic beams and dramatic pops of color to accent the original stone and wrought iron elements. The project included all new windows, refinished hardwood floors, mechanical upgrades, and full renovations to the kitchen, bathrooms, and 2ndfloor fireplaces tile work.

Marvista Design + Build embarked on this whole home renovation project to modernize yet preserve the home’s architectural beauty. Our client’s fell in love with the structure’s stone facade and medieval stained glass windows, but the primary suite was small and the kitchen was not suitable for modern day living. Eliminating existing walls and revising the space planning was a key aspect of this project. We implemented rustic beams and dramatic pops of color to accent the original stone and wrought iron elements. The project included all new windows, refinished hardwood floors, mechanical upgrades, and full renovations to the kitchen, bathrooms, and 2nd floor fireplaces tile work.

Located at a prominent corner on one of the few undeveloped residential sites left in Solana Beach, this project is important not only for the homeowner, but for the community as well. A rigorous site analysis laid the groundwork for a design response which took into account the homeowner’s program, input from the neighbors, and the scale of the project and the character of the neighborhood. The end result is a design that is well set into the existing grade, a move which preserves adjacent views and reduces the visual impact of the structure from the street; all while graciously meeting the desires of the owner. The plan is broken into six unique floor plates. The bottom four of which tie together along the gradually sloping site. An intentionally long southern exposure implements the basics of passive solar design: large amounts of glass bring in abundant light and warmth in the winter, while deep overhangs protect from unwanted summer heat gain. Ocean views to the west are selectively framed throughout the house without compromising privacy from the busy street corner. Public functions within the house flow seamlessly between indoor and outdoor living spaces. JLC Architecture was responsible for a full architecture and interior package as well as exterior hardscape design.

Located at a prominent corner on one of the few undeveloped residential sites left in Solana Beach, this project is important not only for the homeowner, but for the community as well. A rigorous site analysis laid the groundwork for a design response which took into account the homeowner’s program, input from the neighbors, and the scale of the project and the character of the neighborhood. The end result is a design that is well set into the existing grade, a move which preserves adjacent views and reduces the visual impact of the structure from the street; all while graciously meeting the desires of the owner. The plan is broken into six unique floor plates. The bottom four of which tie together along the gradually sloping site. An intentionally long southern exposure implements the basics of passive solar design: large amounts of glass bring in abundant light and warmth in the winter, while deep overhangs protect from unwanted summer heat gain. Ocean views to the west are selectively framed throughout the house without compromising privacy from the busy street corner. Public functions within the house flow seamlessly between indoor and outdoor living spaces. JLC Architecture was responsible for a full architecture and interior package as well as exterior hardscape design.

This house was designed to maintain clean sustainability and durability. Minimal, simple, modern design techniques were implemented to create an open floor plan with natural light. The entry of the home, clad in wood, was created as a transitional space between the exterior and the living spaces by creating a feeling of compression before entering into the voluminous, light filled, living area. The large volume, tall windows and natural light of the living area allows for light and views to the exterior in all directions. This project also considered our clients' need for storage and love for travel by creating storage space for an Airstream camper in the oversized 2 car garage at the back of the property. As in all of our homes, we designed and built this project with increased energy efficiency standards in mind. Our standards begin below grade by designing our foundations with insulated concrete forms (ICF) for all of our exterior foundation walls, providing the below grade walls with an R value of 23. As a standard, we also install a passive radon system and a heat recovery ventilator to efficiently mitigate the indoor air quality within all of the homes we build.

Located at a prominent corner on one of the few undeveloped residential sites left in Solana Beach, this project is important not only for the homeowner, but for the community as well. A rigorous site analysis laid the groundwork for a design response which took into account the homeowner’s program, input from the neighbors, and the scale of the project and the character of the neighborhood. The end result is a design that is well set into the existing grade, a move which preserves adjacent views and reduces the visual impact of the structure from the street; all while graciously meeting the desires of the owner. The plan is broken into six unique floor plates. The bottom four of which tie together along the gradually sloping site. An intentionally long southern exposure implements the basics of passive solar design: large amounts of glass bring in abundant light and warmth in the winter, while deep overhangs protect from unwanted summer heat gain. Ocean views to the west are selectively framed throughout the house without compromising privacy from the busy street corner. Public functions within the house flow seamlessly between indoor and outdoor living spaces. JLC Architecture was responsible for a full architecture and interior package as well as exterior hardscape design.

This is the GOLD standard for landscape design implemented with Landscape Lighting. We were so honored to have both duties and when in control of the landscape design, specimen plant materials such as this Alaskan Nootkatensis front and center. Strategic Landscape Lighting locations were optimal because we were creating the scene and had priority in selection focal tree placements and bed shapes around the yard. This two fold approach surely elevates the results to a level of standard that pleases both the clients, neighbors and our team too. Our clients trusted our vision and plant knowledge and experience to define the gardens and orientation of the landscape to help orientate the position of the home on the plot. At night it is simply gorgeous.

Located at a prominent corner on one of the few undeveloped residential sites left in Solana Beach, this project is important not only for the homeowner, but for the community as well. A rigorous site analysis laid the groundwork for a design response which took into account the homeowner’s program, input from the neighbors, and the scale of the project and the character of the neighborhood. The end result is a design that is well set into the existing grade, a move which preserves adjacent views and reduces the visual impact of the structure from the street; all while graciously meeting the desires of the owner. The plan is broken into six unique floor plates. The bottom four of which tie together along the gradually sloping site. An intentionally long southern exposure implements the basics of passive solar design: large amounts of glass bring in abundant light and warmth in the winter, while deep overhangs protect from unwanted summer heat gain. Ocean views to the west are selectively framed throughout the house without compromising privacy from the busy street corner. Public functions within the house flow seamlessly between indoor and outdoor living spaces. JLC Architecture was responsible for a full architecture and interior package as well as exterior hardscape design.

This is the GOLD standard for landscape design implemented with Landscape Lighting. We were so honored to have both duties and when in control of the landscape design, specimen plant materials such as this Alaskan Nootkatensis front and center. Strategic Landscape Lighting locations were optimal because we were creating the scene and had priority in selection focal tree placements and bed shapes around the yard. This two fold approach surely elevates the results to a level of standard that pleases both the clients, neighbors and our team too. Our clients trusted our vision and plant knowledge and experience to define the gardens and orientation of the landscape to help orientate the position of the home on the plot. At night it is simply gorgeous.

This is the GOLD standard for landscape design implemented with Landscape Lighting. We were so honored to have both duties and when in control of the landscape design, specimen plant materials such as this Alaskan Nootkatensis front and center. Strategic Landscape Lighting locations were optimal because we were creating the scene and had priority in selection focal tree placements and bed shapes around the yard. This two fold approach surely elevates the results to a level of standard that pleases both the clients, neighbors and our team too. Our clients trusted our vision and plant knowledge and experience to define the gardens and orientation of the landscape to help orientate the position of the home on the plot. At night it is simply gorgeous.

This is the GOLD standard for landscape design implemented with Landscape Lighting. We were so honored to have both duties and when in control of the landscape design, specimen plant materials such as this Alaskan Nootkatensis front and center. Strategic Landscape Lighting locations were optimal because we were creating the scene and had priority in selection focal tree placements and bed shapes around the yard. This two fold approach surely elevates the results to a level of standard that pleases both the clients, neighbors and our team too. Our clients trusted our vision and plant knowledge and experience to define the gardens and orientation of the landscape to help orientate the position of the home on the plot. At night it is simply gorgeous.