Sylvan Lake House

This second home occupies a narrow lot on a large, recreational lake.  A mute opacity on the inland side provides privacy and intimacy, while the the lake side opens to generous views and exterior space. A semi-enclosed courtyard brings light and air into the center of the house, a porosity which continues vertically through shafts that pierce the monolithic stacked-boxes. Material palate is minimal, an emphasis on directing attention to the lake and surrounding woods. Exterior-glazed curtain walls punctuate shou sugi ban (charred cedar) clad walls. Glass is either projected or flush with the rough charred wood. Black steel tubes frame edges and walkable surfaces are clad with a light wood that matches the interior floors.