Hilltop Retreat

A unique hilltop site overlooking Lake George with a long deep path through the trees offered an opportunity to explore replacing an older camp structure with a new seasonal retreat for owners from the city. The new home would need to include both a sense of retreat along with access to the lake, modern conveniences and room for larger family gatherings. The brow of the hill was selected for the project site, situated near an existing natural rock outcropping. Here the home could act as a perch overlooking the lake but through the trees and providing both a view and private enclave. Natural materials with a modern disposition were selected including Southbay quartzite, American granite, bluestone, western red cedar, and douglas fir beams incorporating both regional and durable sources. Clean lines, natural materials and an open plan with a multi-story glass facade and lower level entertainment room give the interior a placid, comfortable and modern appeal. A meandering path through the woods down to the lakeshore with its private beach allows the owners access to one of the most lauded summer vacation destinations in the country: Lake George. Inside the home however, the wooded clearing at the brow of the hill feels a world apart as a relaxing and peaceful place to retreat from the everyday.