This vacation home in Wisconsin on the shores of Lake Superior presupposes an existing stone wall on the site. The clients were originally seeking a larger private site, but once they saw this beautiful property high above the lake shore, they fell in love with it.

However, the sounds and sights of the adjacent state highway are a key drawback. Therefore, a stone wall is implemented to create a more visually and audibly private setting. While discussing my admiration of the works of sculptor Andy Goldsworthy, I discovered that my clients are also inspired by his art. The Goldsworthy-inspired stone wall became an imaginary starting point. We simply acted as if it was on the site before we arrived.

The clients, both artists, wanted something simple–more “camp” than “second home”. I invoked the phrase “lean-to”. From there, stone wall and lean-tos became our vocabulary. A open Great Room and two bedroom wing make up the main house. An artist’s cabin and garage complete the buildings. Simple, sustainable materials include a metal roof, stained concrete floors, exposed joists, and reclaimed barn board siding for both the interior and exteriors of the walls.