Residential
Lakeshore Residence
- Type
- Residential
- Location
- Traverse City, MI
- Year
- 2023
- Status
- Completed
- Area
- 3,400 sf
Overview
A carefully sited single-family residence that mediates between a dense urban edge and a protected shoreline — designed to disappear into the landscape while maximizing light and lake views.
Project Overview
Sited on a narrow lot at the edge of Traverse City’s historic residential neighborhood, the Lakeshore Residence navigates between street presence and private shoreline access. The program demanded a home that could serve a family of four while accommodating regular gatherings — all within a tight buildable envelope defined by setbacks, easements, and a 50-year flood elevation requirement.
Design Strategy
The building mass steps down the sloped site in three distinct volumes, each calibrated to the terrain. Public living spaces occupy the upper terrace with expansive glazing toward the water. Private bedrooms are tucked into the intermediate level, shielded by an operable screen system of thermally modified ash. Below, the garage and utility spaces nestle into the hillside, their rooftop becoming a planted terrace.
Materials
- Structure: Mass timber post-and-beam
- Envelope: Fiber cement rainscreen over continuous insulation
- Interior: White oak millwork, polished concrete, plaster walls
- Exterior: Thermally modified ash screen, zinc standing seam roof
Outcome
The residence achieved LEED Silver certification, performing 40% better than baseline energy use. The project was recognized by the Michigan Association of Architects in 2024.
Photography
