AIA Award Winner badge. flr_thumb

Fourth Lake Retreat Lake Luzerne, NY

Featured Photos

flr_1-scaled-1-jpgflr_2-scaled-1-jpgflr_3-scaled-1-jpgflr_4-scaled-1-jpg

Yearning for a weekend respite from city life with their growing family, our clients sought solace in the calm wilderness of the Adirondacks. When a large parcel became available near their parents’ existing camp, the owners eagerly pursued the opportunity to build their dream home. The site had once housed a seasonal camp that had fallen into disrepair.

To provide a sustainable and environmentally conscious design, the new camp was built away from the shoreline in order to incorporate stormwater management and passive shading without impacting the serene shoreline. After multiple iterations of their design preferences, it became clear that the clients desired a modern great camp with clean lines and traditional forms. We focused on finding ways to accommodate the extensive program without making the camp feel massive. To allow for a walk-out basement with views of the lake and help reduce the height and massing of the structure on the approach from the driveway, the house grade relationship was meticulously studied. Large windows on both sides allow for transparency through the house and views out to the lake.

Within the lower level, a space was carefully designed to provide a place for the owners to relax and recharge. In it, there is everything from a private spa (complete with a Halotherapy Room, Steam Room, Sauna Room, Yoga Room, Hot Tub, and Spa Shower) to an outside shower for use after swimming or exploring the sprawling property.

In an effort to embrace the lush lakeside surroundings without interrupting them, we chose materials for the home that would maintain a sense of refinement without overpowering all that surrounds it. With the addition of a panoramic wall of windows, created with the use of natural cedar siding, wood timbers, and dark bronze finished windows and panels, the owners are able to take full advantage of the stunning lake views. The traditional gable and shed rooflines, along with the screen porch and deck, break up the massing of the large structure and make the owners feel at home in their new modern camp.

With an abundance of green design elements throughout the home, from the locally-sourced finishes, extensive stormwater management, high-efficiency glass, insulation, and HVAC systems, to the thermal chimney that passively cools the entire space, this camp was designed with sustainability in mind. With its picturesque exterior, well-appointed interior, and accommodating size, this great camp is a true sanctuary designed to stand the test of time.

flr_5