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.

A combination of shingles, shakes and board and batten infuses this otherwise simply shaped, European-inspired eclectic cottage.

Distinguished by an angled carriage house for visual interest, this spacious shoreline retreat is designed to accommodate guests.

A 456-square-foot space over the character-rich, two-stall garage features an exterior stair for private exit and entry – a perk weekend visitors, adult children or in-laws will appreciate. Beyond this, “You can never have enough garage at the cottage,” noted architect Wayne Visbeen.

This practical, creatively designed space – enhanced by expressive dormers – can also transform into a game room, studio or bunk house as well.

Indoors, the main floor extends 1,700 square feet to encompass a large gathering room that opens to a dining area and overlooks the water with a front-to-back kitchen: Extensive glass brings the lake ambience inside. A “swing” room provides ample flexibility for guests, office work or just reading; it shares a two-way fireplace with the living room.

“ In a lake home, you have different needs over the course of a year,” Visbeen said. “This flex room is situated on the end of the home, so it’s very quiet no matter what its purpose.”

The main level also includes a roomy mud room and laundry area, full bath and spacious second entry that’s accessible from the back patio, garage or as a secondary front door. The main foyer opens to a U-shaped stairway leading up to a luxurious master suite with garden tub, spacious shower, private balcony and extensive walk-in closet; two guest rooms include plenty of storage space. One also features a sitting area. A loft adds additional space for reading or conversation.

A covered back patio could easily evolve into a screened sleeping porch: “There’s a beautiful view of the water from this vantage point,” said Visbeen. “It would be another memorable place for guests – or the homeowners – to enjoy a night out at the lake.”

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.