Trees, lakes, the shoreline, animals — these are some of the elements the winning designers of this issue’s second annual Michigan Blue Design Awards competition think about when building waterfront cottages.
Rooted in the environment. The land/water relationship. Contextual details. I love the concepts and phrases our judges used when reviewing the numerous entries.
Judge McKenzie Wilhelm, a partner at Minnesota-based Coen + Partners, shares that the winning waterfront projects reveal both the legacy and the ambition of the region. “(The) top applicants showcase a thoughtful integration of land and water that honors place, restores community access, and elevates the everyday experience,” she says.
And I have to admit that it’s good to hear that a fresh set of eyes has picked up on the winners’ goal of ensuring a legacy for both the land and its residents. Take a look at St. Joseph-based Allegretti Architects’ projects in the Homes section and you’ll see what I mean. One design speaks to Allegretti’s response to the nearby sand dunes, “seamlessly integrating its outdoor amenities to reflect the rhythm of the land.”
The rhythm of the land. I can’t think of a better way to describe the observations needed to create top-notch living environments. Then there’s Allegretti’s Addition project, also in the Homes section. Notice how the project’s simplicity was a result of the firm’s mission to build sustainably and in an environmentally conscious manner.
In the Deck/Patio/Porch category, under Exteriors, Harbor Springs-based Cottage Company Interiors speaks of its winner by using words like cohesiveness and “harmonious with the natural surroundings.” Bravo!
Meanwhile, judge and designer Mary Oneglia, a lifelong East-Coaster and owner of Seven Lakes Studio, was likewise truly impressed by the entries she reviewed. She says she appreciated how “The integration of organic materials, site-responsive architecture, and curated, contextual details created spaces that feel deeply rooted in their environment.” She and Wilhelm shared the responsiblity with New York-based architect Keith Burns and Chicago-area designer Holly Bell.
Waterfront homes and landscapes evoke not only a sense of specific place — in Michigan, we embrace the blues and greens of our Great Lakes; the taupe sands of their shorelines; the flora and fauna that share space with us — but they’re also projects that feel profoundly embedded.
The winners have worked hard to integrate a sense of community — and, most importantly, family — as well as the social aspects of their projects. The winning entries immediately inspire relaxation, encourage family and friends to share a fireside meal, and celebrate opportunities to run around on the beach. Reviewing these properties, you can almost hear kids (and adults) calling out, “Race you down to the water!” or “Grab the marshmallows!” (And, as I’ve yelled to my kids at the cottage over the years, be sure to leave your cell phones behind; who needs reels when these are the reals?)
Indeed, observes Wilhelm, “Each project feels like an invitation to connect.”
Oneglia agrees. “It’s easy to envision beautiful, lasting memories being made in each and every one of these homes,” she says.
Congratulations to the winners and thank you for showing us your winning projects.
That being said, there are times, of course, when we want to leave our homes to explore the state’s many seasonal diversions, including curling, ice-fishing, sauna-indulging, cross-country skiing, or wintertime festivals. I hope you get a chance to explore Michigan’s coolest winter offerings, showcased in this issue, and experience at least one adventurous pastime. And remember that a simple, snowy stroll amid non-migrating songbirds and falling, aging pine needles is nice, too.
