The Bird Watcher’s Lake Retreat is a project that created a single family home on Lake Martin, AL. The owners decided to reuse the original foundations of the lake cabin the owner’s father built in the 1950’s. While this provide some design challenges, it decreased the overall construction time.

  A large screen porch wraps the front of the home and overlooks the lake. This provides a perfect vantage point for the owners’ pastime of bird watching. Rocking chairs provide a cozy place to relax and watch nature. Ceiling fans help to keep the porch cool.  Finally, stairs lead from the screen porch, down to the water.

  The exterior of the home features an architectural shingle roof. In addition, both lap siding and board and batten siding cover the exterior walls. Further, the conventional foundation allows the owner storage in the crawlspace of the house.  A pair of barn doors open to make room for storing the family boat and lake supplies.

  The interior of the home features a two story living room. This space allows an open concept living, dining, and kitchen area. The kitchen features custom cabinetry and a large center island. Also, the master suite and a guest suite occur on the first floor for convenient, no stair access. Moreover, each child and their spouse has a bedroom suite upstairs. Grandchildren share a large bunk room decorated by the owner’s family in a camping theme.

  Overall, the design creates a perfect lake retreat for a couple on the weekend to relax and spend time together. At the same time, there is plenty of room for a family celebration over a summer holiday.