Shorecliff

The site is located on the top of a bluff along Lake Michigan. The design reflects the client’s wish for a ‘modern’ prairie style home, and is oriented lengthwise along the lake with views from all major rooms. The natural slope of the site down towards the north allowed for a partially exposed lower level, as well as a bridge as part of the entry sequence. The use of board-formed concrete, silvery stone walls, and wood surfaces form a natural material palette suitable for the secluded picturesque surroundings.

The living room fireplace was constructed of board-formed concrete (which imprints a woodgrain texture into the concrete) instead of traditional brick or stone. It features a ten-foot-tall center glass panel that was patina’d using a silvering technique to create an iridescent bronze finish with vertical streaking. The entrance to the master bedroom features a six-foot-tall onyx stone with a natural edge, mounted and recessed into the wall. Two custom metal stairways use reclaimed wood treads from a linden tree sourced on site.