Project: Northern Lake Home
Architects: Strand Design
Location: Hubbard, Minnesota, United States
Area: 4800 Square Feet
Year 2017
Photography: Chad Holder
Northern Lake Home blends modern Scandinavian design with an active, nature-focused lifestyle. Created as a vacation retreat for a youthful Minnesota couple, the project embraces the north woods environment while celebrating contemporary architectural values.
Massing and Site Integration
The design organizes Northern Lake Home into two primary volumes separated by a transparent glass core. These wings splay toward the lake, following the site’s natural swale. As a result, the public spaces contour along the terrain, blurring the line between architecture and landscape.
The glass core serves as both a divider and a connector. Through operable glass walls, it transforms into a flexible dining and lounge area, creating a sheltered yet open connection to the woods and water beyond.
Public and Private Realms
The public zones feature expansive living areas with large walls of glass. These openings maximize scarce northern light and frame lake views through the surrounding embankment. Consequently, the interiors feel bright, open, and constantly connected to the outdoors.
In contrast, the private family area is partially embedded in the landscape and set apart from the active living spaces. This placement ensures protection for sleeping quarters and preserves privacy while maintaining a strong relationship with the site.
Materials and Atmosphere
A subtle, darkened exterior palette helps Northern Lake Home blend into the forested surroundings. Meanwhile, warm white oak finishes soften the crisp interiors and highlight the natural environment beyond the glass. The result is a balance between minimalism and comfort, allowing nature to remain the true focal point.
Conclusion
Northern Lake Home demonstrates how contemporary Scandinavian-inspired design can respond to site, lifestyle, and nature simultaneously. With its careful massing, open living areas, and warm interior finishes, the retreat offers a harmonious balance of privacy, activity, and connection to the landscape. Ultimately, Northern Lake Home stands as a model of refined lakeside living in Minnesota’s north woods.
