Bayview Bliss
Lake George, NY
Nestled by the serene shores of Lake George, this charming lakeside retreat began as a modest 2-story craftsman bungalow, complete with a picturesque wrap-around porch. However, the passage of time and the evolving needs of a modern family beckoned for a rejuvenation of this classic abode.
Enter AJA Architecture and Planning, sought out by the discerning client to orchestrate a harmonious fusion of old-world charm and contemporary convenience. The challenge was clear: enhance the original bungalow’s cozy and inviting ambiance while seamlessly expanding it to meet the demands of a growing family.
The result? A thoughtfully designed 2,200-square-foot addition, complete with an attached garage, tastefully blending with the original home’s character. AJA’s approach aimed to open up interior spaces, fostering an airier atmosphere, all while preserving the cherished camp-like charm of the home.
In this transformation, the kitchen was strategically relocated to the new addition, optimizing living and dining spaces to comfortably host more guests. A particular highlight was the conversion of the existing screen porch into a year-round delight: a 4-season porch offering breathtaking lake views. Meanwhile, the addition’s second floor saw the birth of a welcoming master bedroom suite, enhancing the home’s year-round livability.
While the main house’s smaller bedrooms retained their original footprint, AJA introduced upgraded insulation and new windows to boost energy efficiency. On the lower level of the addition, a spacious kitchen took shape, seamlessly connecting to the 4-season porch. Here, an ample mudroom, a combined laundry and bathroom space, and a versatile first-level office—all designed with future adaptability in mind—rounded out the additions.
Notable interior features included a bespoke built-in bookshelf staircase, closets adorned with historic ball pin hinges, the preservation of the client’s original clawfoot bathtub, and a quaint corner sink, repurposed from the original camp, installed in the downstairs office.
Exterior considerations were equally meticulous. The design thoughtfully navigated the replacement of existing holding tanks with a new septic system, a significant project challenge. Yet, through collaboration between AJA, the client, and Studio A, the design seamlessly met the client’s desires. Exterior finishes were chosen for their durability and low maintenance, all while seamlessly harmonizing with the camp’s timeless aesthetics. New windows graced the main house, and the original stone fireplace remained functional, cleverly incorporated into the design of the new addition’s entry.
In the end, AJA Architecture and Planning successfully crafted an addition that respects the heritage of the original house, while providing space for generations to come, where they can savor and cherish the beauty of Lake George’s tranquil shore.
