This stunning lake house retreat was designed by Marcus Gleysteen Architects together with LDa Architecture and Interiors, located on Governors Island, one of six bridged islands on Lake Winnipesaukee. The house occupies two connected properties that span a peninsula on Lake Winnipesaukee, which is part of the town of Gilford, New Hampshire.

At the foothills of the White Mountains, the island is home to a tight-knit community, with multiple generations living side by side. Dividing the program into smaller structures suits the laid-back, welcoming atmosphere of the island. The main house faces southwest, with views across the water to distant mountains.

DESIGN DETAILS: ARCHITECT Marcus Gleysteen Architects INTERIOR DESIGNER LDa Architecture and Interiors GENERAL CONTRACTOR Meridian Construction LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT Gregory Lombardi Design

A recreation barn and guest pavilion are oriented eastward, looking beyond a wooded cove and through the lake. A slate path stitches the buildings together and links a series of outdoor seating areas. One walks through the property like a campus, with each part uniquely programmed yet clearly connected.

What We Love: This dreamy lakeside retreat provides a welcoming home for gathering with family and friends. Large windows frame captivating views of the lake while helping to bring in an abundance of natural light. We especially love the indoor-outdoor connection of this home, all of the fantastic spaces for entertaining, the great room with its dual-sided fireplace, the unique staircase design, and the glass-enclosed wine cellar.

Tell Us: What details in the design of this Lake Winnipesaukee retreat do you find most appealing? Please share your thoughts in the Comments below!

Note: Be sure to check out a couple of other fabulous home tours that we have highlighted here on One Kindesign in the state of New Hampshire: A lakeside camp-like home provides a woodland escape in New Hampshire and Tour this spectacular lakeside dream home in New Hampshire.

In the main house, a bright, modern living space lies just beyond the front door. The single-loaded floor plan is glazed along the western wall. Lush views of the shoreline and an abundance of natural light complement the crisp, minimal interiors.

A double-story window wall elevates the primary seating area, which is used for social events in the summer and family gatherings in the winter.

In the recreation barn, family board games and pool are played with a waterfront view. Exposed timber framing extends beyond the interior, creating an intimate outdoor patio. The exercise room on the second floor, used daily by the owners, enjoys direct views of both shorelines.

Under 2,000 square feet, the guest pavilion is designed to act as both a comfortable refuge for visiting family and as a future residence for the clients’ children. Sweeping views brighten the modern interior.

In the living and eating areas, glazed garage doors easily lift, creating a direct connection to the tree-lined water and lawn.

On each level, a full-size bedroom enjoys private shoreline views. The compact layout is functional and simple, allowing the incredible surroundings to take center stage.

PHOTOGRAPHER Trent Bell Photography