Internationally recognized architect and professionally registered interior designer Wayne Visbeen, AIA, IIDA, harbors a passion for waterfront home design. In each issue of Michigan BLUE, he shares a new plan that makes the most of blue views and lakeshore lifestyles.

Michigan BLUE Lakestyle Cottage floor plans are a copyright of Visbeen Associates Inc. in Grand Rapids and are made available through Michigan BLUE, Michigan’s Lakestyle Magazine. For more information about Visbeen Associates Inc., visit www.visbeen.biz.

Inspired by turn-of-the-last-century cottages, this updated modern retreat makes the most of 1,945 square feet. “Even though there are only 1,345 finished square feet on the first floor, it’s packed with functional living space,” noted Wayne Visbeen, AIA, IIDA of Visbeen Associates Inc.

The area includes an ample master suite with walk-in closet and full bath featuring a shower and garden-sized tub; efficient kitchen equipped with plentiful cabinetry and built-ins; a half bath; and a spacious dining room that opens to a two-story great room with fireplace, along with the option of dramatic chimneys inside and out.

“Natural light floods this space, which offers great views of the lake,” Visbeen said. “The stairway flanking the great room also allows perched views of the water.” Upstairs, the cottage features a loft and full bath, as well as two bedrooms. A bonus wing could easily be included over the master suite, or a finished lower level.

Other perks of this plan are an attached two-stall garage and two covered porches, one on either side of the cottage. “These could be glazed for four-season enjoyment, left open or screened,” Visbeen said. “This retreat offers a lot of flexibility.” A standing seam metal roof reinforces a nostalgic, resort flavor. It’s also very functional: “Powder-coated aluminum will virtually last forever,” Visbeen said.

Other architectural characteristics include overhangs and brackets reminiscent of historic bungalows. And, “Giving your cottage a bold color adds recognizable character and spirit,” the architect said.

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.