Located on a bluff overlooking Lake Michigan’s southeastern shore, these two 7,000-square-foot homes on six acres expand an existing historic family compound that dates to the early 20th century. The Chicago clients desired sophisticated yet sustainable designs for these country retreats.

The steel frame houses were sited such that each family would inhabit its own private space, while the terraced land between the homes becomes a central gathering area. Since the land slopes towards the bluff, the first floors of the houses are stepped incrementally to follow the contours. A field stone path axially bisects this terraced area and terminates in a council ring or fire pit reminiscent of a favorite feature employed by Jens Jensen, the original landscape architect for the property. The partners also worked with the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality to carefully locate the houses to prevent dune erosion.