Contemporary in Nature.

The landscape architect faced a few primary tasks — integrate a contemporary home into a lakeside site, preserve and integrate several landmark trees and design a viewing terrace toward the lake.

In the front yard, a majestic Gingko gently frames the home, creating an inviting storybook look. Multi-stem birch softens and enhances the crisp, clean lines of the architecture while adding texture, especially during the winter months.

A magnificent Copper Beech tree provides a canopy over the rear yard. The landscape architect saved it by significantly manipulating the natural grade transition by adding stone slabs.

The basement walkout, with double-story glass, provides a lookout to the lake and the other natural property features.

With a commanding overlook of the lake, the terrace feels like a natural extension of the interior. Exposed aggregate paving integrates well with the building architecture. Adding soil accommodates a smooth transition as the natural grade slopes down. Massive stone slabs create the edges. Simple, low grasses surround the fire pit area, creating a scene where family and guests feel as though they are sitting within the natural environment.