Known for postcard-worthy fishing and classic Maine beauty, Grand Lake Stream is now also home to a seasonal getaway downeast for our clients based out of state. After countless visits to the area with his family over the years, our client purchased a property with a smaller existing house, guest house, and a large garage across the street with living space above. The house was close to the water and had a small beachy area right out front on the lake. By the time they found our team, they were ready to renovate.

With hopes of a camp-like feel on the outside and a contemporary look on the inside, our clients had a specific idea of what their new home would be. They wanted a bright, open layout with no shortage of shoreline views and a design that took sustainability and efficiency into consideration at every turn. We opened up the master suite with a master bath (with shower and tub), a walk-in closet, and a bed positioned in just the right spot for idyllic lake views.

We used a mix of materials inside from painted shiplap walls and ceilings to Douglas fir beams and window frames. The exterior utilized dipped, white cedar shingles—with drainage planes placed behind them—that were installed strategically to be resilient throughout Maine's infamously temperamental seasons. The triple-glazed windows were dark aluminum clad, nicely complementing the darker siding to keep with the campy cottage aesthetic. With energy efficiency top of mind, we used spray foam to seal up the existing cottage, creating a much tighter home and put a new foundation in place for good measure.

Our team was able to give this old camp a new life, just in time for our clients to settle into their new chapter of retirement with days spent fishing, relaxing, and entertaining on the lake.