Designed by Wheeler Kearns Architects, this single-family home sits along the shores of Lake Michigan, created for a family who relocated from Germany to the United States. The design reflects a European minimalist approach, paired with materials that respond to the lakeside environment.
From the beginning, the home brings together clean lines and a mix of textures. Horizontal Accoya wood siding, cedar shingle roofing, and black window frames create a layered exterior that feels both modern and familiar within its setting.
Materials Built for the Lakeside Climate
One of the defining features of the home is the use of Radiata Accoya wood siding. This acetylated wood was selected for its durability, sustainability, and resistance to rot, making it ideal for the changing conditions near the lake.
The Accoya siding works alongside cedar shingles on the roof, both chosen for their ability to age naturally over time. With constant wind coming off the water, these materials will gradually shift in tone, adding character to the home as it weathers.
A Glass-Filled Exterior with Outdoor Living in Mind
The lake-facing side of the house opens up with large walls of floor-to-ceiling glass, drawing in natural light and uninterrupted views. Black window frames give the exterior a sharp, modern edge while framing the surrounding landscape.
A pergola extends the living space outdoors, creating a shaded area for cooking and dining beside the pool. This outdoor zone feels like a natural extension of the home, designed for both relaxation and entertaining.
Warm Interiors with a Minimalist Edge
Inside, the home shifts into a softer, more tactile environment designed by Stephanie Thatenhorst. Wood ceilings run throughout the main floor, adding warmth and continuity, especially in the living room.
White oak flooring ties the spaces together, creating a consistent visual flow. In the kitchen, a long white island stands out against darker cabinetry, offering a clean contrast that keeps the space feeling refined.
A Kitchen That Connects Indoors and Out
The kitchen is designed with movement in mind. A sliding glass door opens directly to the covered patio and outdoor kitchen, making it easy to transition between spaces.
This layout supports both everyday living and entertaining, with the indoor and outdoor areas working together as one cohesive environment.
Dining with a View
The formal dining room is positioned to take full advantage of the lakefront setting. With unobstructed views, the space feels open and connected to the landscape beyond. Natural light fills the room, enhancing the simplicity of the design while keeping the focus on the view.
A Staircase at the Center
A suspended steel staircase links the different levels of the home. White oak treads add warmth, while the steel structure introduces a more industrial contrast. Built-in cabinetry nearby provides practical storage, keeping the overall look clean and uncluttered.
Open Connections and Quiet Spaces
At the top of the stairs, an open hallway includes a small seating area that connects to the bedrooms and bathrooms. This shared space offers a moment to pause while maintaining a visual connection across the upper level. The layout keeps circulation simple while allowing each room to feel separate.
A Minimalist Home Office with a View
The home office follows the same minimalist approach seen throughout the house. A simple desk is positioned to face the view, making the most of the natural setting. With minimal distractions, the space focuses on light, outlook, and functionality.
Light-Filled Bedrooms and Refined Bathrooms
In the bedroom, black-framed windows wrap around the corner, allowing light to enter from multiple angles. This design choice brightens the space throughout the day while maintaining a clean, modern look.
The primary bathroom continues the restrained palette. A freestanding bathtub sits beneath a window, while dark gray walls pair with gray floor tiles to create a cohesive, calming environment.
A Final Look Back
From the outside, the home reveals glimpses of the interior, including the staircase that connects each level. The combination of wood, glass, and steel shapes a house that responds to its environment while maintaining a clear architectural identity.
This Lake Michigan residence brings together European influence, durable materials, and open views, resulting in a home that feels both modern and enduring.