Lake Vista
Patio and Outdoor Living Space | Matrix Planting | Grill Station | Jacuzzi | Lighting
Not one, but two views of Dayton Lake set the tone for this country retreat in Galien, Michigan. The home sits perched on a knoll taking full advantage of the pastoral scene. A skillfully designed remodel by a Chicago firm gave the house updated lines and provided solutions for the new owner’s needs. Dreams of family gatherings immersed in nature fueled the inspiration for their landscape plan.
Project Description
The basement foundation is nearly all that remains of the original house on this property. The newly remodeled home embodies clean lines and ample windows to connect the clients to the natural surroundings. In contrast to the overhaul the house received, the approach to the outdoor spaces was with a lighter touch.
Upon arrival to the property the gravel driveway moves through meadow and mown lawn openings to create a journey. Meadows define the perimeter of the property to create a layered landscape between the distant woods and more cultivated areas. As you near the house, two existing maple trees frame your first view of the lake. A central motor court welcomes you and fills the space between the new home and existing detached garage. Future plans to remodel the garage informed the courtyard theme.
The clients wanted the plantings near the house to have seasonal interest, but be relatively low maintenance. In response, the design embraces a matrix style planting with native perennials and ornamental grasses. A flowering dogwood tree frames the corner of the house and boxwood shrubs provide some casual structure to the beds.
A natural bluestone walkway leads you from the driveway to the front door and steppers take you around the corner to a more expansive space. Here a lounge area sits under a porch roof and extends into a dining space. Lawn meets the edge of the patio so you can easily flow beyond the hardscape. Bistro lights provide lighting for evening gatherings and grilling at the nearby station.
A new dock was strategically placed to make the lake more accessible. Soon a new boat will be docked there adding new ways to enjoy the space. For now, it’s a great jumping off point into the water.
Low voltage landscape lighting creates a warm glow as night approaches. On late arrivals from the city, the lighting provides a welcoming invitation. Strategically placed lights in the mature maple trees give a moonlight effect.