Highbank Residence received an honor award in the Custom Rural or Vacation House category, part of “a body of nationally significant and inspiring residential architecture” celebrated in the annual program. RD Magazine Editor Cheryl Weber writes that the jury “praised the sophistication of the plan” and movement through the site, from a restored meadow of prairie grasses, integrated by Design Workshop, to the dramatic reveal of sweeping lake views from the main living area. As Principal Ray Calabro, FAIA, explains, “the section–this idea of coming in at the lower level and rising up to views of the lake–was a central part of our scheme from the beginning.”

The home’s long horizontal lines and broad roof overhangs are inspired by early Prairie Style residential architecture. A board formed concrete fireplace anchors one end of the pavilion containing a living room, dining room, and kitchen. Sliding panels of glass blur the boundary between interior and exterior, opening to a broad outdoor deck facing the lake. A long cantilever to the west provides shade to the deck and living spaces, while to the east, a series of alternating solids and voids filters views of the road, oak trees, and neighboring properties.

Project collaborators include Design Workshop (Landscape Architect), Ryan Companies (General Contractor), PCS Structural Solutions (Structural Engineer), and Niteo Lighting, with photography by Nic Lehoux and Brandon Huttenlocher. Read the current issue of Residential Design Magazine at the link below.