A cottage sentiment lives to some degree in every heart. Beyond a waterfront view, what’s so compelling about cottages are rooms sized “right.” Grand Rapids-based architect Wayne Visbeen draws inspiration from functional Arts and Crafts-styled bungalows in this walk-out plan, ideally tailored for narrow lake lots.

“There are architectural elements here that will allow this cottage to stand up with larger, more prestigious homes,” Visbeen noted. “But it won’t overpower a more charming, historic lakefront community.”

A combination of siding and shakes, minimal use of brick and white trimmed columns lend textured interest. The wood front door’s diamond-shaped window grill pattern allows an open peek inside the home; flower boxes exude cottage character.

Upon entering beneath a welcoming covered front porch, guests are drawn through the foyer to an ample view of the water from the vaulted dining room. “The dining room is the hub of this home, with a large kitchen to the left and more expansive living room to the right, each also enjoying an open view of the lake.”

Connected to the living room on the cottage’s leeward side is a den that can be closed off with French glass doors, still allowing for a waterfront vista. Beyond a half bath, service entry and ample laundry room/home management center with plenty of storage space, the master suite offers a generous walk-in closet, full bath with soaking tub, walk-in shower and his-and-her sink. The master bedroom enjoys lakeside scenery.

Accessed via an L-shaped staircase in the foyer, the lower level provides seemingly endless options: Two bedrooms and two full baths can combine with an expansive recreation room, home theater, wet bar or additional storage space, “which homeowners on the water can never seem to get enough of,” Visbeen said. Beyond this “swing” space, other storage areas are fashioned into the plan.

Carriage-style garage doors can face the street, or, if the lot allows, be side-loaded for altered curb appeal.

To view plans or purchase this floor plan visit www.visbeen.biz or call (616) 285-9901 and ask for Michigan BLUE cottages.

MICHIGAN BLUE LAKESTYLE COTTAGE FLOOR PLAN IS A COPYRIGHT OF VISBEEN ASSOCIATES INC. AND IS MADE AVAILABLE THROUGH MICHIGAN BLUE, MICHIGAN’S LAKESTYLE MAGAZINE.