Nestled in the serene dune forest landscape near Lake Michigan, this 2,200-square-foot home was designed for two research scientists transitioning into retirement. The project aimed to create a modern, single-level home that fosters a deep connection to the surrounding environment while prioritizing energy efficiency, sustainability, and ease of use.
Photographer
Scott Norsworthy
Builder
David Bos Homes
The design responds to the unique site, with each space articulated through building forms that engage directly with the natural surroundings. Expansive glass panels blur the boundaries between indoor and outdoor spaces, inviting natural light and framing tranquil views of the mature deciduous and evergreen forest.
A neutral palette of wood floors, white walls, and ceilings creates a serene, gallery-like backdrop for the clients’ extensive art collection, which includes Japanese woodblock prints and works by their artist daughter. Warm, high-quality materials and thoughtful spatial planning balance functionality with warmth, offering comfort and support for daily life.
Innovative building technologies elevate the home’s performance. The structure features a highly efficient thermal envelope, achieved through advanced insulation techniques, triple-pane windows, and a solar array with battery backup, ensuring resilience and sustainability. Exterior materials, including cladding crafted from recycled content, reflect a commitment to environmental stewardship.
Functionality was integral to the design, with features like zero-step transitions, pocket doors, and a seamless flow between spaces enabling the clients to age in place comfortably. Special touches, such as a corridor dedicated to indoor gardening, integrate personal interests with the home’s everyday experience. Completed in April 2022, this home embodies the clients’ vision of a modern retreat—a place to enjoy comfort, tranquility, and harmony with nature throughout their later years.
