Hillside cottage

Scope: Renovation + Addition

Contractor: Claton & Claton

Photographer: Tom Harris

This sweet cottage on Lake Michigan has been the home to several families throughout it's life. Its newest owners wanted to honor its history in the neighborhood, while also updating it to their family's needs. It was important to maintain the cottage's contextual relationship on the small street, so the addition of a master suite, kitchen, and screened porch needed to be tucked away on the back of the house. 

The original cottage had wood paneling throughout. Each piece was carefully removed and stored during the extensive interior gutting and renovation. The paneling was then brought back to the house and carefully reinstalled and refinished, giving a fresh, open feel to a cottage that continues to provide a family with a relaxing summer get-away, just as it has for decades.