With a secluded setting and pristine water views, this shingle-style cottage is nestled on Whitefish Lake, Montana, owned and designed by the principal of Landmark Builders. The owners had lived nearby this property and when it became available, they jumped on the opportunity after coveting it for so long. The main challenge was the topography, so the builder had the site lowered eight feet to bring it closer to the water. Extensive retaining walls were constructed and a twelve foot basement was created, taking six months just to get the lot they way they wanted it before they could even begin construction. The couple created custom features that would cater to their lifestyle needs, which was to host their six grown children and thirty grandchildren in their new home. The couple wanted an architectural aesthetic that is in keeping with their surroundings, so they opted for a shingled, cottage style home. During the winter months, the area can be quite dark, so the interior materials needed to be kept light and airy, selecting white woods and expansive windows to draw in natural light.
The result: a sprawling three-story shingle-style cottage encompassing 6,800 square feet of living space with a great room showcasing soaring ceilings and windows engulfing views of the lake. There is also a kitchen on the main level and even on the lower level to make entertaining a breeze. Every floor offers powder rooms and guest bedrooms, all with en-suite bathrooms. The property additionally has a garage spacious enough to hold five cars, a workshop, guest house and a beautiful stone potting shed.
Outside, the cottage has plenty of covered porches and decks to offer inhabitants spectacular water views, while the main and lower level terraces have fireplaces to keep guest warm year round. There is also a boathouse and a dock to enjoy spending time on the lake or to just be closer to the water.
|