NEW BUFFALO RETREAT
NEW BUFFALO, MICHIGAN 2006

Located in New Buffalo Township in southwestern Michigan, this two-story retreat was conceived as a series of prismatic traditional volumes that conspire to create distinct surrounding outdoor spaces. Connections between the volumes are purposefully discreet, promoting the perception of independent buildings in the landscape.

The taut surfaces of the eaveless gabled metal roof and flush shiplap siding cut clean silouhettes against the surrounding trees.

Photos by Chris Barrett, Hedrich Blessing. General Contractor was Great Lakes Builders - Dave Thomas, Owner.

Courtyard

A single story bedroom wing flanks the two-story main house in the distance.

Courtyard

Individually cast slabs of concrete march along the bedroom wing toward the pool in the distance.

Bedroom Wing Patio

A lantern atop a storage shed in the distance casts its reflection on the swimming pool at end of the bedroom wing.

Dining

Overlooking the rear yard, the dining space is located in an enclosed extension of the adjacent open-air porch.

Dining

With the shed in the distance, the dining room enjoys a panoramic view.

Breakfast

The breakfast table was placed on axis with the portal leading to the dining room.

Kitchen

The centrally located kitchen is flanked by daylight on two sides and enjoys a view toward the deep rear yard.

Kitchen

The kitchen opens to the breakfast table and the family room beyond.

Stairs

A view of the main stair from the second floor landing.

Master Bedroom

Vaulted ceilings mark the upper floor of the main house volume.

Shed

Another view of the lantern-topped storage shed nestled deep in the rear yard.