House Tour: Lakefront Summit

September 03, 2014
Built on a bluff beside Lake Michigan, this vacation cottage makes the most of its lovely setting.
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Tranquil setting

The serene surroundings of this vacation cottage offer enchanting views and a host of possibilities for outdoor activities. The home takes advantage of the setting; all the main gathering rooms, as well as three bedrooms, have lake vistas. 

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Spacious living

The large spaces and open design of the home can comfortably accommodate the homeowners, their three grown children and the children's families. 

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Nature's art

An enclosed porch off the living room ensures the homeowners can enjoy the outdoors even during bad weather. This space beckons on quiet mornings or rainy afternoons. 

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Collected and connected

Locally gathered stone make up the facade of the fireplace. Movement between the kitchen, dining and living rooms is fluid because of the open floor plan. 

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Relaxed and inviting

A mix of finishes gives the interior a rustic, relaxed tone. The homeowners chose furniture with distressed finishes or natural color variations that camouflage dings, nicks and other wear. The 10-inch-wide pine-plank flooring adds to the inviting feel of the living area. 

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Easy prep

The kitchen caters to large gatherings and convenience with features such as a pot-filler above the stove. 

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Weathered island

The weathered look of the rest of the surfaces continues onto the kitchen island. A raised counter gives guests a place to relax away from the main work area. 

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Casual comfort

During the summer, the French doors in the family room are always open-connecting the home to the outdoors. To make the lakeside cottage feel secluded, the north and south windows are arranged to obscure views of neighbors. 

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Plush retreat

The master suite is adjacent to the main living area but buffered by a private office and a pair of closets. High south-facing windows let in light while maintaining privacy. On the upper level, three suite-style bedrooms enable family members or visitors to have hotellike quarters. 

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Simple pleasures

Lake Michigan is only a few steps from the back porch.

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