Nestled along the shoreline of a quiet New Hampshire lake, this residential project reimagines a modest, aging cottage into a refined, four-season retreat for a pair of urban professionals seeking a deeper connection to nature. The original structure, a patchwork of additions typical of its era, presented significant limitations for modern living. While its lakeside footprint offered an enviable proximity to the water—now grandfathered under current zoning regulations—the cottage itself was no longer fit for the clients’ vision of a relaxed, open, and contemporary getaway.

We removed much of the original structure, replacing it with a thoughtfully crafted new home that retains the existing footprint to preserve its rare lakeside setting. The resulting residence maintains the low-key charm characteristic of traditional northern lake cottages, while providing the expanded functionality and energy efficiency desired for year-round living.

The new home includes three bedrooms, a fitness room, and a home office—an ideal mix for both retreat and remote work. The open-concept main level features a great room that seamlessly integrates living, dining, and kitchen areas, oriented to take full advantage of panoramic lake views. Generous decks and a lakeside fire pit offer intimate outdoor spaces for relaxation and entertaining, reinforcing the home’s connection to its serene, natural setting.

Material selections emphasize durability and simplicity, blending the house into its wooded surroundings with minimal maintenance. Environmentally conscious design strategies are at the forefront: a combination of super insulation, high-performance windows and doors, and a heat pump system ensures comfort in all seasons. Rooftop solar panels contribute to the home’s sustainable profile, making it as efficient as it is inviting.

This lakefront home is a contemporary interpretation of the classic cottage—one that honors the area’s character while delivering modern comfort, exceptional energy performance, and a lasting connection to nature.

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