This waterfront residence overlooking Michigan's Grand Traverse Bay has been reimagined to include a "mosh pit" lounge by California-based Lauri Design Studio.
Willow Point was originally built in 2005 in a contemporary style, which lacked the warmth that its new owners envisioned for their quiet lakeside life.
They called upon Lauri Design Studio founder Jenni Lauri to bring out the softer side of the architecture, using natural materials and handcrafted details.
"For this project, every decision – from reworking the architecture to layering natural materials – was guided by how the home would be lived in, creating spaces that feel calm, connected, and meant for gathering," said Lauri.
The floor plan was completely reimagined to strengthen the relationship between the interior and the surrounding landscape.
Staircases were relocated, sight lines were cleared and views were framed – all while improving the overall spatial flow.
The glass-wrapped lower floor's interconnected areas include the kitchen, dining room, living room and family room, intended to be used as a large gathering space.
A new picture window created through a concrete wall provides the kitchen with a view of the forest, while textured Ceppo stone was chosen for countertops and surfaces due to its resemblance to Lake Michigan's sandy shores.
In the living and dining area, a beaded Kelly Farley sculpture is suspended from the ceiling beside a reimagined fireplace, and surrounded by a mix of soft and metallic furniture.
"Layered textures and sculptural furnishings create an atmosphere that feels both refined and welcoming, encouraging long conversations and quiet evenings overlooking the water," said the studio.
The original steel switchback staircase in the centre of the dwelling connects all three floors, and was refinished in a metallic plaster to add texture and depth.
The main entry staircase was relocated and reconstructed with solid travertine, ash treads and a curved plaster handrail.
Upstairs, a family "mosh pit" was formed in a newly created loft space, providing a cushioned area for relaxing together with views across the lake.
"Inspired by the nostalgia of a sunken living room, it has become the family's favorite gathering place, hosting everything from card games and movie nights to afternoon naps and grandchildren playing after long days on the lake," the studio said.
The primary suite was modelled after a private apartment, featuring its own lounge and kitchenette, as well as an integrated Travertino Rizzi stone bathroom vanity overlooking Grand Traverse Bay.
"More than any individual room, the home was designed around the family's evolving traditions, creating spaces where multiple generations can gather, reconnect, and build memories for years to come," Lauri Design Studio said.
Michigan's extensive shorelines along three of North America's Great Lakes offer countless potential for waterfront dwellings.
Other examples in the state include a wood-wrapped house comprising three separate structures by Wheeler Kearns Architects, a multi-level home for "people of all ages and mobilities" by DMAC Architecture & Interiors and a residence with two wings that intersect at irregular angles by Snow Kreilich.
The photography is by Gavin Cater.