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This magnificent Lake Vermilion custom log home was built in 2006. It was designed through the collaboration of the owner and a Swiss architect following a Swiss/Scandinavian theme.  Much of the design concept is derived from the architectural and relationship influences upon the owner and his family, during the 55 years they lived and worked in Africa.  In the middle Eastern/African context, light and internal movement play an important part in how people live together.  The old colonial motifs included circular access to space throughout the house, broad expanses of windows, and private verandahs.  Passageways  rarely dead end, rather, they are circular in movement so one always ends up circling back to the beginning.  In many of the old colonial houses there were large adjoining verandah’s.  These verandah’s were not only a social space, they were also functional.  It prevented the sunlight from reaching the inside walls, thus, the buildings were always cool even during the hottest time of the year.

 In this exquisite lake home, you will witness firsthand the love and thought used in the design.  They have captured the use of private spaces (bedrooms with private bathrooms and private verandahs) where one can step out of the public area (great room with fireplace and verandah) and spend personal time together.  Yet even in the public areas, one can find a space to visit.  Another element of the Eastern African design motifs is that even in a crowded room, one can find a private moment for each other.

You’ll notice that the two suite bedroom units on the main floor do not dead end.  Passage through the bedrooms circles back out to the great room.  This is the movement from public-to-private-to-public space that makes living together possible and enjoyable.  The loft was designed around the concept of a private yet open area for painting, writing, or reading on one end and on the opposite side a very private area which includes an exclusive balcony overlooking the lake.

The home is all about family/people getting together as well as one finding peace.  You’ll notice that the house and large front verandah is built at tree-level so that one can see the lake, the incredible Vermilion sunsets, and the animals in the forest.  On the other hand, it is almost impossible to see the house from the lakeside despite the commanding view from inside of the home.  It is located in this manner so that from every room there is a view of the lake and the forest.   The aim was to make the home a part of the island but not to take over the island.

This Lake Vermilion property is perfect for the family searching for a family retreat or for the corporate executives needing a place to rejuvenate or to reward their stars for services well performed!