ON THE BOARDS: A MONTEREY LAKE HOUSE
Frank Lloyd Wright once said:
“My prescription for a modern house: first a good site”
Sure, Frank had a way with words (and OK, maybe cantilevers too), but our design process for this new lake house in Monterey, MA has left us wondering if he might also have suggested a “challenging” site as well!
Existing Site Plan
Shaped in large part by its proximity to the water, restrictive lot lines and zoning set backs, and a FEMA floodplain, the buildable area for this house is as challenging as it is unique. The existing house (which is to be removed) showcases the difficulties of conforming the regulatory requirements of the lakeside plot.
Proposed Site Plan
Our client prioritized the views toward the water so the building volumes step as the property line narrows to give all the living spaces and bedroom clear views towards lake.
View from Lake Side
View From Road Side
In addition to a large dining and living area on the first floor, the building program includes four bedrooms (two with en suite bathrooms) and a screened porch. For a site with many “challenges” the current design reflects a house that is distinctive to its place while also exuding a balance of traditional and modern New England vernacular.