Lakeside Lodge.

This remote lakefront property, with quaint log cabin, serves as a weekend retreat from the client’s primary residence in downtown Detroit. Prior to the landscape architect’s transformation, the property was underwhelming, overgrown, dark and uninviting.

Selective tree removals, tree canopy reduction, and understory tree removal, provided the opportunity to establish a shade-loving fescue lawn. Preserving desirable tree species and impressive canopy promotes the wooded character of the site.

Washed aggregate concrete porch, steps, and arrival plaza were designed and constructed with a custom ornamental steel handrail to create a welcoming and safe entry experience. Earth-tone unit paver paths, terrace patio, and stone slab steps meander through textural perennial and ornamental grass plantings along 300’+ feet of frontage on Wau-Me-Gau Lake. A casual pathway constructed with crushed granite fines, directs the pedestrian to a natural stone slab fire feature with dramatic western views of the lake.

The weathered steel walls and curbs blend with textural understory plantings and Paperbark Birch. Evergreen shrub masses were incorporated into the design to provide texture and warmth all year long.

A loose, crushed stone drive surface creates a soft appearance, that blends into the natural environment.