Creating Elevated Comfort on Clamshell Lake
Although America is bookended by two vast and beautiful oceans, for the majority of people living in the rest of the “sea to shining sea,” it’s much more about lake culture.
Having grown up in Minneapolis, the land of 10,000 lakes, I didn’t think any other part of the country could possibly rival our own. But during my time in Alabama I was exposed to other beautiful lakefront communities such as Lake Martin just outside of Montgomery and Smith Lake, near Birmingham and Huntsville which also showcases some beautiful homes by Jeffrey Dungan.
And in fact, many states and regions of the country have strong and geographically diverse lake cultures. From the rocky, rugged Moosehead Lake in Maine to placid Lake Gaston that straddles the Virginia and North Carolina border, to the desert where Lake Mead provides respite for Nevada residents.
And each of these places has its own unique identity, including the surrounding architecture, which is sometimes referred to ask camp, cottage, cabin or just “the lake house.”
After moving back to Minneapolis, one of my first interior design projects I took on was a new cabin on Clamshell Lake, which is a part of the Whitefish Chain of Lakes in the Brainard area of Minnesota. This reservoir includes 13 lakes that span 14,272 acres throughout the towns of Crosslake, Pequot Lakes, Jenkins and Pine River. The area around these lakes is known for its natural beauty with rolling hills, dense forests, and scenic vistas. These lakes each have their own quaint, cozy vibe, but are all connected by waterways that make boating an adventure where you can see something new every time!
This cabin is nestled in a cove of Clamshell Lake. The clients wanted a home that felt intimate, but that also had the opportunity to expand, allowing them to graciously host their large set of family and friends.
The main floor holds the great room, an open kitchen and dining area and the primary suite.
Off the kitchen is a three-season porch complete with a gas lit wood burning fireplace. The sitting area and large table are perfect for a summer meal or fall game nights.
Upstairs are two guest bedrooms with a shared bath, laundry and workout area with 360-degree views of the lake. Good incentive to get your exercise in!
A cozy lower level reveals a well-appointed family room, a bunkroom, additional guest room and large bathroom.
It’s the perfect place to be for a cozy family movie night in the cold Minnesota winters, as well as a perfect place to let a group of kids be kids while adults enjoy the upstairs living areas.
Throughout the house, both unfinished and painted wood walls and ceilings bring the classic lake lodge vibes, while modern fixtures and refined furniture pieces keep the overall look from becoming camp. A neutral palette throughout the house lets thoughtful color choices pop, such as the sage green kitchen cabinetry and deep indigo blue bathroom walls.
