A Re-imagined Waterfront Lake Cottage

Building from the ground up on a relatively steep hill came with challenges, but it meant Candace and her team could completely re-imagine the home and lean into the sweeping views with an all-glass exterior and breathtaking interior designs to match. Three years later, the waterfront home was complete.

Finding common ground between the two often differing styles of your client is one of the primary jobs of a designer. In the case of this project, Candace’s clients were drawn toward different styles; he loved modern architecture, and she appreciated more traditional pieces. Candace helped them combine both by leaning into the contemporary nature of the architecture through lighting and finishes and softening each space with layered furnishings.

Design: Candace Plotz Design | Photography: Patrick Biller

The living room is the epicenter of the primary floor, setting the tone for the remainder of the space. Candace designed the room around the views overlooking the water, incorporating pieces and materials to highlight the property’s surroundings.

Balance in the kitchen

The kitchen’s glass walls and clerestory windows highlight the sweeping views and provide a jumping-off point for the space. Modern lighting and clean lines in the kitchen’s design nod toward the home’s architecture, while carefully selected furnishings bring an inviting feeling to the space. We love how Candance incorporated subdued materials to draw the eye to the windows and make the most of the home’s natural light.

Primary bedroom details

In the primary bedroom, a reeded wooden black feature wall sets the tone and contrasts the light from the wall of windows. Textural details soften the architectural lines and create warmth through layered linens, wovens, and subtle patterned textiles.

Candace incorporated black metal and reeded glass in the closet design to create a unique texture, opening the room while providing privacy.

A timeless primary ensuite

The primary ensuite bath continues with design elements incorporated throughout the home. Candace intentionally selected classic and timeless finishes, from the freestanding tub to the marble tile. Floor-to-ceiling windows flood the room with natural light and create a spa-like atmosphere.

A light-filled basement

While it’s hard to believe that the light-filled secondary residence is technically a basement, this lower level of the client’s home provides entertaining and hosting flexibility to accommodate family and guests. The client’s parents live in this level for part of the year, and it was important to them to have a separate and dedicated space. Designed to function as a guest area, this floor is complete with a kitchen, a guest suite, and a detached spa.

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