The Point

This project afforded the architects and landscape architects the opportunity to work together from the beginning to develop a Site Master Plan which serves to reinforce and complement the unique properties of this remarkable site. After exploring a number of alternatives a concept was developed with three pavilions linked by a glass hallway and “bridge”.

To reinforce the pavilions’ relationship with the lake, a series of water features were then developed. A Spring Box at the edge of the Auto Court and a Spring Box east of the two main pavilions feed water bars which appear to flow under the buildings into a larger architectonic water feature. This water feature then pours into a larger body of water which was developed to feel like a native pond adjacent to the lake. This pond is connected visually (and when it rains, literally) to the lake beyond.

Terraces were developed adjacent to primary living areas in order to further integrate the buildings to the site. Three new coves and a hidden stone patio were developed to create places to be around the lakeshore, and two outdoor rooms with fire pits were developed at some distance from the pavilions. In order to directly connect the main living areas of the house to the adjacent lakeshore, large concrete “lily pads” were designed which appear to float on the water feature and provide dry passage over it between the house and the main terrace.

In order to balance the environmental impact of a large pre-existing lawn, the remaining gardens were developed using a palette of contextually appropriate native plant materials. The end result is a seamless integration of architecture, landscape architecture, and nature.

Architect: Barry Gehl, Krannitz Gehl Architects (now Krannitz Kent Architects)