WATERFRONT THROUGH PLAY
Because of our location and our niche, we find ourselves as planners working on a lot of waterfront sites. This brings challenges, of course. I just got off an hour-long Zoom with EGLE looking at wetlands, high water marks, and floodplains that were impacting some walls and a dock we are helping plan for. But despite the finite details we find ourselves wading through, we also get to explore the fun stuff at sites like this. The planning of a boat lift that will house a ski boat where grandkids will build memories they take well into the future. Or helping place storage for kayaks so they aren’t tossed all around the yard yet are easy to get to so that use isn’t a burden.
It's these things that are the icing on the cake in many ways. We plan the patios, docks, seawalls, and pools that overlook it all. But the little things are what can make a site great versus just good. And I do have my favorites; here are a few.
The Up Dog boat ramp – This is a system that bridges the water level your dog swims at to the level of the dock or boat. Dogs can’t climb ladders very well. This is a way to create a safe interface that helps dogs get out of deep water. It comes in many applications, such as dock or boat platforms. We have a dog, and most of our clients have a dog. Building a safe way for them to be part of the fun is a fantastic addition to any lake or boating family.
Kayak dock launches – Just like a dog getting out of the water onto a dock, getting out of a kayak onto a dock can also be clumsy and even unsafe. Getting in can be even worse. Kayaks bob and float around while you add your weight in uneven ways as you get settled. Several types of kayak launching systems are available. They attach to docks, landings, and beaches in many ways, suiting many needs. They create a stable base for a kayak that is positioned to easily slide in and out of the water. Some can double as storage. They take the gymnastics out of getting on the water for a short evening paddle and make it safe to launch for a novice or someone who is less mobile.
We also have a few custom items on our lake-side spaces that I’ve enjoyed planning over the years. For example, a powder-coated metal bin that is waterproof for storing firewood for that beach fire. Big flat shelves that secure those massive rolled-up lily pads. Lake-facing cocktail railings for evening sunsets. Stone steps through a revetment for easy access to the lake, and more.
We find most of our clients are squeezing in their weekends, and the time they have is cherished with family. We like to think we help make that time safer, organized, and easy - so that play can be maximized.
It’s finally summer friends. Enjoy.