On the subject of beautiful finishes, one of the home’s most extraordinary design moments happens in the bath, where one can relax in a tub overlooking the lake. Framed by luxurious Buechel Smoked Fog Cut Stone, not only does the room come alive with the light from outdoors, but its textures almost seem to mimic the energy of the clouds. It feels almost as if the whole room is floating away.
The appreciation of nature in the project was not merely aesthetic. Sustainability efforts include incorporating high-efficiency mechanical systems, an upgraded thermal envelope, LED lighting, and wiring for an electric car charging station. Toukoumidis notes that sustainable elements have become increasingly important to clients over the years.
And as with any project, there were of course corrections along the way. “Assumptions and initial ideas often evolve as a project progresses,
particularly in renovation work,” Toukoumidis explains. One innovative solution the team came up with was to phase the project. By starting with construction on the guest house, the client was able to remain on the property throughout—even during major work on the main house.
Ultimately, Toukoumidis says, both the owners and the team who helped set the stage for this home’s next chapter seem very pleased with the results. “The homeowners were great clients who inspired us, and I think we inspired them,” he says. “Together, we created a one-of-a-kind home that makes us proud. They’re now living their best life in it with their growing family and couldn’t be happier with the outcome.”
◗ Lead mason on the project was Jay Balthazor of Balt Masonry. The stones used in this project include a Fond du Lac custom cut hearthstone and Smoked Fog custom cut stone.
