The Porter Residence by SkB Architects

Key objectives of the project were to maximize the relationship of the house to the lake through section and massing exploration and to create an open plan around a central living space that allows visual connection to adjacent spaces while maintaining defined intimate scales within.

To compliment the site and provide balance between structure and landscape, the main living spaces were lowered to four feet above lake level, rendering a lower profile. From the road above, the entry sequence descends to the front door where views through the house reveal the lake beyond, seemingly on the same level. The massing of the house is focused to the west to maximize view and optimize daylight, and creates two courtyards – one each at the public entry side and the private lakeside. The tallest volume is utilized to bring privacy for outdoor living to the lakeside by shielding it from the adjoining property.