Custom & Vacation Homes

Custom & Vacation Homes

My first independent project was a vacation home for my parents in Sister Bay, Wisconsin. This home received the prestigious Residential Honor Award from the American Institute of Architects. Since then, I have designed custom homes and vacation home designs throughout Iowa, Illinois, and Michigan. Every project embodies "Story Formed Architecture," ensuring that each home reflects the unique lifestyle and vision of its owner. Rather than adhering to a "Signature Style," I collaborate with clients to develop a storyline, crafting a home architecture design that fulfills their dreams.

Featured Vacation Home Projects

Whole House Transformation – Spirit Lake, IA

A complete transformation featuring a new second-floor addition and interior overhaul has revitalized this Spirit Lake vacation home design into a modern yet timeless retreat.

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Original lake cottage

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New addition seen from lake

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New addition seen from lake

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Side view

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New Gararge and Guest Rooms

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Adirondack-Style Vacation Home – Spirit Lake, IA

This new lake house showcases vacation home architecture inspired by the Adirondack style. With spacious yet cozy interiors, it blends seamlessly with the lakeside environment.

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Vacation Home Additions – Sun Valley Lake, IA

Extensive additions to a 1970s home introduced character while optimizing the stunning lake views, transforming it into a premier vacation home design that captures the natural beauty of its surroundings.

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Award-Winning Vacation Home – Sister Bay, WI

Designed for my parents, this vacation home architecture project emphasizes wood construction with a modern yet warm aesthetic. Set high on a bluff, it provides breathtaking views of Lake Michigan.

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Custom Home, Knoxville, IA

A vacant barn was reimagined as a modern custom home, incorporating multiple "farm buildings" linked together to evoke the charm of Midwest farmsteads.

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Modern Farmhouse – Northern Iowa

A vacant barn was reimagined as a modern custom home, incorporating multiple "farm buildings" linked together to evoke the charm of Midwest farmsteads.

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Misc Custom Home Projects

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Misc Residential Projects "On the boards"

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Let’s Design Your Story Together!

Whether you’re dreaming of a custom home or envisioning a stunning vacation home design, Spirit Lake Studio can help. Contact us today to bring your story to life through inspired home architecture design.

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