Classic purity and designed restraint are key features for this Lake Mille Lacs, Minnesota fishing refuge. Swan Fish Camp is a modern interpretation of an iconic traditional A-frame, designed by architect Andrea Swan of Swan Architecture for her family. She and her husband originally wanted a Swiss chalet, but unfortunately they didn’t have it in their budget. The pared-down design is very appealing and puts most of the emphasis on capturing optimal lake views and sun exposure.

Swan sees the form as a universal one: “It’s a doghouse, a ship vessel, a chapel. It’s uplifting and very spiritual,” she says. This understanding is evident in the way she kept the living space open to the roof. The sitting room over the kitchen is open to the space, a nice touch that enables people there to look toward the lake and enjoy the grand yet intimate space. The color palette reflects tones of the lake, sky, surrounding birch trees and dramatic snow drifts in winter.

Photos: Courtesy of Swan Architecture