Camp in the Trees
The project is situated along the west shore of Long Lake in western Maine, encompassing a 9-acre site with a long stretch of waterfront. The site’s features, including an old oak grove and flowing water, informed the design of the main house, master bedroom suite, and updated boathouse.
Project Details
Location:
Bridgton, Maine
Structural Architects:
Joanna Shaw, Will Winkelman
Builder:
Symonds Builders, Inc
Photography:
Jeff Roberts, Joanna Shaw
Recognition
Project Requirements
The client was seeking to create a traditional “Maine camp” feeling with a modern touch and amenities. Key elements included an open plan kitchen, a multi-purpose gathering area with a screened porch, an abundance of windows for light and views, a private master suite, and space to accommodate overnight guests.
The Site
True to its name, Long Lake stretches 11 miles through the woods of western Maine. This 9-acre site along the west shore of the lake includes a long stretch of waterfront along a gently sloping wooded lot.
Design Concepts
The early stages of the design process began with a large centralized plan to include living and sleeping spaces. However as discussions progressed, we slid the master bedroom out to become its own retreat in close proximity to the soft sounds of a nearby stream. A walkway with wood decking flows between the trees and tethers the kitchen, living room and dining room to the master bedroom. The walkway is covered to protect from rain and the posts provide lovely framed views of the lake.
The Results
An older camp and garage were replaced by the main house and master bedroom suite, while an existing boathouse was updated to accommodate the needs of the family and guests. The sitting of the house respects an old oak grove and an established flow of water crossing the site. The house’s footprint shifts and dances between the oaks. Soft angles in the floor plan carve out cozy places to sit, read, listen to waves against the shoreline and gather together as a family. Each space is a true reflection of this family. A love to cook and to entertain inspired the engaging relationship between the kitchen and the screen porch. Over-sized double hung windows open to the kitchen counter to serve a meal and for cook and kids to spend time together.
