Charming renovation to a cozy family vacation retreat in Three Oaks

Family Vacation Retreat-Space Architects-01-1 Kindesign

A family vacation retreat has undergone a beautiful renovation and addition by Space Architects + Planners along with interiors firm Jennifer Miller Studio, located in Three Oaks, Michigan. The family of six had found that their summer getaway, that sits close to Lake Michigan, was too cramped. The children were sharing bedroom space and there was not enough room for their guests. The floor plan configuration of their home needed to be updated into a cleaner space, which included an addition. A new 1,275 foot guest house with a home office was also added, to host overnight visitors in comfort. The architects made a complete gut renovation, adding an additional 1,100 square feet that spans over two levels. The addition, as seen from the exterior view, is a harmonious connection with the original home. The residence now consists of 4,342 square feet of living space, relaxing and spacious for both family and guests.

Furnishings were carefully selected for the interiors, ensuring easy summer living for entertaining and family-friendly materials. This is the perfect gathering spot for family and visiting friends throughout the seasons. The designer created multiple group seating arrangements, which would enable large crowds after a dip in the pool, playing tennis or a day at the beach. The pine wood floors were painted white (Farrow and Ball) throughout the interiors. This helped to create a seamless connection with the original mismatched wood to the new addition. ” The white floors also set a beautiful gallery-like tone that showcases the art consultant client’s art collection and local found antique furnishings with sculptural qualities,” states the designers.

Above: The original home was much smaller, while the addition created improved space and function for the family to relax and entertain guests.

Above: The 1,275 square foot guesthouse is similar in architectural styling as the main home, creating a nice flow. The space is mainly used as an in-law retreat; it can accommodate anywhere from two people in the master bedroom and up to ten people on the sofas.

Above: The living room ceiling had ceiling beams added to it for visual interest and to add dimension to the expansive ceiling.

Above: The original living room seems more dark and dingy. Painting the original brick fireplace, walls and floors infused brightness into the space. It also created a feeling of spaciousness. New furnishings also added to the improved attractiveness of this room.

What We Love: This family vacation retreat is a place where family and friends can come together to create lasting summer memories in a peaceful, relaxing abode. The new indoor-outdoor living spaces are fabulous for all to enjoy the beautiful summer weather without the bugs. Love how the exterior facade is very understated, perfect for a cottage vacation home; while the inside is warm and comfortable.

Readers, what are your thoughts on this family vacation retreat? Would this be your idea of the perfect summer cottage?

Above: In the reading room, the homeowners scored the two mid-century leather-wraped chairs at a local resale shop. The sofa was an old piece that the owners had re-upholstered to match with the color scheme.

Above: Two wingback chairs flank a colorful painting by Carolyn Cole Fine Art. A cowhide rug adds texture and comfort to the space.

Above: Quartzite countertops adds visual beauty to this kitchen that once had an L-Shaped configuration. The size was not increased in this space, instead it was re-configured into a galley style kitchen. Now the family can comfortably host anywhere from 12 to 18 guests, which they happen to do a couple of times a week!

Above: The blue hue of the cabinets draws its inspiration from the water, a reference to nearby Lake Michigan.

Above: In the bright and airy dining room, the soaring vaulted ceiling was already existing to the space; where the architects added beams as they did in the living room. New sliding glass doors were added to either side of the room. These connect to two screened-in porches, which are part of the new addition.

Above: The screened-in porch features floor-to-ceiling windows, illuminating the space with natural light. Comfortable furnishings helps the homeowners to relax and take in the forest that surrounds them.

Above: At 70 feet long, this fabulous sun porch serves well during the winter months. A painted cedar flooring adds warmth to the space.

Above: The cedar siding features a custom beige wash with a semi-transparent stain. The chairs were a unique find by the homeowners at a local yard sale. Love the playfulness of the mixing and matching of new and old! The porch connects from the dining room to the master bedroom retreat.

Above: The master bathroom features a light gray vanity with a white Carrara marble countertop and floor.

Above: The freestanding bathtub offers a unique custom designed side table (this would make a great DIY project!). The designer sourced the tree branch table from a local shop. She had it painted white and added a marble top to complete the aesthetic.

Above: A powder bathroom features a hand printed paper for a unique, one-of-a-kind effect.

Above: An additional screened-in porch off the powder bathroom features neutral fabrics with splashes of color. This is more of a casual indoor-outdoor lounge for family and friends to relax. Most of the fabrics that can be seen throughout the interiors use outdoor fabrics for increased durability.

Above: There are several reading nooks throughout the home, giving the family space for solitude and relaxation. This one is located at the top of the stairs.