Architect Firm in Traverse City
2022 BEST IN AMERICA LIVING GOLD AWARD WINNER
2024 Detroit Design Award Winner
2025 MICHIGAN BLUE DESIGN AWARD WINNER
As architects serving Traverse City, MI and the surrounding Northern Michigan area, our approach to residential property design responds to site context, natural topography, and the way clients live on the land.
This home brings together great detailing in a local cottage vernacular, showing the expertise, commitment, and dedication required to create work that reflects client ideas, personality, and the local environment while still achieving a more modern functional appeal.
Along the shores of Lake Leelanau this vacation house is complete with wrap around porches, private hot tub terrace overlooking the water and a hidden historical boat house for the owner’s collectable wooden speed boats. At the start of each project, exploratory conversations and thoughtful questions help architects, designers, and clients shape the design through collaboration. The wrap around porch is interrupted by a carefully detailed screen porch perfectly positioned for that sunset view in the evening. The design process is rarely a straight line, so a clear path from concept to completion helps bring early ideas into a buildable home and can also support other business needs.
The wood detailing of this porch is intended to recall an age now past; Quiet contemplation with a natural setting, while gathered around the wood fire. Every room is designed to have a view toward the water while being discreetly planned for privacy along the sides, keeping people connected to the setting. This home also features locally available stone and wood materials (which are part of the historical vernacular of lakefront cottages in this area), making it perfectly nestled into its surroundings, with sustainable design choices such as energy-efficient insulation and durable assemblies that respond to heavy snow loads and sub-zero winters in Northern Michigan while meeting Grand Traverse County codes, local zoning ordinances, historic district guidelines where applicable, and environmental regulations.
Tips for getting started in Traverse City MI and Northern Michigan:
Review past work to ensure alignment of aesthetic, relevant experience, communication style, and process when choosing an architect firm in Traverse City.
Strong relationships and ensuring coordination with local builders and contractors help streamline construction over time.
Photographer: Dune Life Photography – Erin Attwood
Builder: Burkholder Construction