On the website of a former summer camp, this lakeside home in Vermont sits on a steep incline. After the dilapidated camp was torn down, new structure was allowed inside its exact footprint. A few nearing retirement wanted to build a second home here that would not crowd the pristine lake’s shore, so architect Elizabeth Herrmann cantilevered the structure to accommodate the steep website and emphasize its relationship to the outdoors. “From inside, the home seems to float and produces a calm, expansive feel,” Herrmann says.
in a Glance
Who lives here: This really is a second home to get a couple nearing retirement.
Location: Leicester, Vermont
Size: 1,583 square ft; 3 bedrooms, 2 1/2 baths
Photography: Susan Teare
Susan Teare, Professional Photographer
The cantilever solved a significant issue with the site’s layout, allowing the new home to have outside space where the old home’s footprint had been. Contrary to the previous structure, which dipped into the lake, the new home does not take square footage up about the lakeshore. Vermont’s Department of Environmental Conservation applauded the new layout.
Elizabeth Herrmann architecture design
The new structure inverts a traditional floor plan — that the entry is in the top level, and the main living spaces are at lake level below.
Herrmann chose Port Orford cedar siding for its durability and hot color. “It glows with a soft honey-colored blot and looks great throughout the year as the trees change,” she says. “Very uplifting and serene.”
Elizabeth Herrmann architecture + design
The projecting decks allowed Herrmann to extend the dwelling spaces outdoors and added a lightness to the structure of the home’s lake side. The timeless structure and cedar siding cover a contemporary tribute to the traditional camps in the area — such as the one which was on this website.
Elizabeth Herrmann architecture + design
“We’re very purposeful about creating spaces completely distinct from many of the surrounding camps and the original camp we tore down,” says Herrmann. “Many are dark, poorly lit and, in the case of the older camp, made surprisingly little link to the outdoors.”
Elizabeth Herrmann architecture design
The customers are both serious cooks and wanted a kitchen which could accommodate them both in the exact same moment. Though the kitchen is on the lower level, Herrmann made certain it felt spacious and was nicely lit.
Susan Teare, Professional Photographer
Tucking the fridge beneath the stairs and using small appliances removed extra bulk, opened the kitchen up and expanded counter space.
Flooring: Dal Tile; countertops: Jerusalem Gold granite; cabinetry: clear walnut, custom by Nice Lines Wood
Elizabeth Herrmann architecture + design
Stairs with stainless steel and cable rails lead until the second level and the main entrance.
Railing: Feeney cable rail, Nop’s Metalworks; pub stools, dining table, chairs: customers’ own
Susan Teare, Professional Photographer
Herrmann framed a perfect view in each room. “Window positioning and the design of spaces are the two most crucial elements for this home,” she says.
Elizabeth Herrmann architecture + design
Light interior materials and a lack of jarring transitions help to visually expand the home’s size. “Sheetrock yields on the window don’t stop the eye,” says Herrmann. “The exterior perspective becomes the focus, rather than the window surround”
Elizabeth Herrmann architecture + design
“Natural lighting gives clues where to go,” says the architect. “There is always a glimpse of something beyond as you make your way throughout the home. It builds fascination and keeps the home from feeling too tight or static”
Elizabeth Herrmann architecture + design
In this hallway just off the entry, both small bedroom doors face each other. The tub sits opposite both doors, making a triangle. The transom windows over each doorway help light and air circulate into the bathroom, which has no windows. “There is something interesting about moving components, also,” says Herrmann. “I’m always searching for ways to create small spaces feel exciting”
Elizabeth Herrmann architecture + design
The exterior windows and transom windows additionally contribute to ventilation throughout the home. Cross-ventilating windows and ceiling fans help with passive cooling.
Bedroom built-ins: Nice Lines Wood
Elizabeth Herrmann architecture + design
As in the rest of the home, the most important bathroom mimics the natural textures and colors of the outdoors. Light colours and massive expanses of glass aid to create the illusion of more room.
Lighting throughout home: Hubbardton Forge; tile: Jasba