An Orchard Lake Cottage Makeover Turns Into a Completely New Lake Front Paradise

Challenge

Originally built in the early twentieth century, this Orchard Lake cottage was purchased almost 10 years ago by a wonderful couple—empty nesters with an appreciation for stunning views, modern amenities and quality craftsmanship. They hired MainStreet Design Build to design and remodel their home to fit their needs exactly.

Upon initial inspection, it was apparent that the original home had been modified over the years, sustaining multiple room additions. Consequently, this mid-size cottage home had little character or cohesiveness. Even more concerning, after conducting a thorough inspection, it became apparent that the structure was inadequate to sustain major modifications. As a result, a plan was formulated to take the existing structure down to its original floor deck.

The clients’ needs that fueled the design plan included:

  • Preserving and capitalizing on the lake view
  • A large, welcoming entry from the street
  • A warm, inviting space for entertaining guests and family
  • A large, open kitchen with room for multiple cooks
  • Built-ins for the homeowner’s book collection
  • An in-law suite for the couple’s aging parents

Solution

The space was redesigned with the clients needs in mind. Building a completely new structure gave us the opportunity to create a large, welcoming main entrance. The dining and kitchen areas are now open and spacious for large family gatherings. A custom Grabill kitchen was designed with professional grade Wolf and Thermador appliances for an enjoyable cooking and dining experience. The homeowners loved the Grabill cabinetry so much that they decided to use it throughout the home in the powder room, (2) guest suite bathrooms and the laundry room, complete with dog wash. Most breathtaking; however, might be the luxury master bathroom which included extensive use of marble, a 2-person Maax whirlpool tub, an oversized walk-in-shower with steam and bench seating for two, and gorgeous custom-built inset cherry cabinetry.

The new wide plank oak flooring continues throughout the entire first and second floors with a lovely open staircase lit by a chandelier, skylights and flush in-wall step lighting. Plenty of custom built-ins were added on walls and seating areas to accommodate the client’s sizeable book collection. Fitting right in to the gorgeous lakefront lot, the home’s exterior is reminiscent of East Coast “beachy” shingle-style that includes an attached, oversized garage with Mahogany carriage style garage doors that leads directly into a mud room and first floor laundry.

Results

These Orchard Lake property homeowners love their new home, with a combined first and second floor living space totaling 4,429 sq. ft. To further add to the amenities of this home, MainStreet Design Build is currently under design contract for another major lower-level / basement renovation in the fall of 2017.

“We needed a new house built on a century old foundation. MainStreet did an amazing job from start to finish. Steve listened to everything I was looking for and worked with my vision to turn it into a reality. His attention to sight lines and details is excellent. Christine took me through all the work of choosing lights, cabinets, fixtures, etc. The two of them work so well together! Dwain was in charge of the construction, and he is a stickler!  The philosophy of the company is one of excellence and honesty. I don’t know this because it’s on a website or brochure; I know it because I had the pleasure of being their client. If they choose a product, it is because they believe it is an excellent product. If they create anything, from a stair banister to a luxury bath or a whole house, it will be done to the highest standards. The job they did on the whole house renovation was so superb that when I finished the basement, I asked to be their client again without considering any other builders. I’m considering building a garage on the outlot of my property, and if I do, it will be built by MainStreet.”                                                  —Cynthia Lahti

2 comments

  1. Susan Connett says:

    Would love to know about the exterior color. Is it hardy board with custom paint or vinyl? Is the color a stock color or custom mix? We love this home. It’s really beautiful!

    • Christine Ramaekers says:

      Thank you for your kind words! This is HardiePlank Smooth Lap Siding painted with Benjamin Moore HC-145 Van Courtland Blue.

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