Avid lovers of the north woods, the homeowners were thrilled to find an island property in northern Wisconsin, connected to the mainland by a causeway.
The island’s dramatic topography features a prominent, forested hill offering sweeping views to the north and south. Their vision was clear: create a home nestled into the spruce and fir canopy, respectfully integrated into the landscape and barely visible from the lake. The siting carefully thinned the old-growth forest and followed the island’s natural ridgeline, creating a home that recedes into its setting while framing long, layered views.
The house consists of three simple gabled forms—a “living” block, garage/mud entry, and owner’s suite—linked by transparent connectors and arranged to embrace a north-facing terrace. Inspired by the clients’ Finnish heritage, the design evokes a Scandinavian hilltop village, with a lakeside sauna and guest house (see next page) linked by woodland paths. Materials like dark stone, stained cedar, and zinc roofs create a timeless, recessive palette. Inside, a glass-enclosed living hall immerses communal spaces in filtered light and forest views, while upper-level bedrooms are tucked into rooflines articulated by crisp dormers, maintaining simplicity, clarity, and connection to nature throughout.