The Story Behind
Award-Winning Forest Sanctuary Redefines Contemporary Living
The 2013 House of the Year emerges from White Lake's pristine woodland like a natural outcropping, its 6,600 square feet of industrial contemporary design seamlessly merging with ancient oak and maple canopies. This architectural masterpiece features floor-to-ceiling commercial windows, full stone exterior, and standing seam metal roof, while the integrated 2,000-square-foot garage oasis elevates automotive passion to art form.
Recognition as 2013 House of the Year reflects the extraordinary vision realized in this industrial contemporary masterpiece, where award-winning AZD design principles transform raw materials into architectural poetry. The full stone exterior anchors the residence like a natural geological formation, its quarried surfaces creating textural dialogue with the surrounding forest canopy that changes with each season's light.
Floor-to-ceiling commercial windows serve as transparent walls, dissolving boundaries between interior sanctuary and woodland theater. These expansive glazing systems, engineered for both thermal performance and visual drama, frame ever-changing compositions of ancient oak and maple while flooding 6,600 square feet of living space with filtered forest light. The standing seam metal roof cuts precise lines against the sky, its industrial aesthetic softened by the organic curves of surrounding treetops.
Within, the great room's linear stone fireplace functions as sculptural architecture, its glass front reflecting polished concrete floors that flow seamlessly throughout the residence. Premium appliances transform the culinary theater into a stage for gastronomic artistry, while custom cabinetry in rich, dark wood creates dramatic contrast against the forest backdrop visible through every window. Granite surfaces echo the natural stone themes established in the exterior architecture.
The primary suite becomes a wellness retreat where the soaking tub positions occupants within the treetops themselves, granite and dark stone creating spa-like sanctuary that connects intimately with nature. Heated floors ensure year-round comfort while custom millwork demonstrates unwavering attention to craftsmanship detail.
Perhaps most remarkable is the integrated 2,000-square-foot garage oasis, finished to residential standards with polished floors and custom storage solutions. This space transcends typical automotive accommodation, becoming a retreat for vehicle enthusiasts where collections and recreational pursuits find sophisticated sanctuary. The custom finished storage and retreat level transforms utilitarian space into lifestyle statement, proving that industrial contemporary design can elevate every aspect of daily living.
This convergence of premium materials, thoughtful design, and masterful craftsmanship creates not merely a residence, but a demonstration of how contemporary architecture can honor natural settings while providing uncompromising luxury and functionality.
White Lake Township represents one of Oakland County's most coveted residential destinations, where pristine natural beauty meets sophisticated suburban amenities. This community evolved from 19th-century farming settlements into today's carefully planned township that prioritizes environmental preservation while providing exceptional educational and recreational opportunities.
The property's proximity to The International Academy, consistently ranked among Michigan's top-rated high schools, positions families within one of the state's most prestigious educational corridors. This renowned institution's focus on international baccalaureate programs and rigorous academic standards attracts families seeking exceptional educational opportunities without sacrificing the tranquility of forest living.
White Lake itself spans over 540 acres, offering year-round recreational opportunities from boating and swimming to ice fishing and winter sports. The township's extensive park system includes multiple nature preserves, hiking trails, and recreational facilities that extend the property's natural setting infinitely outward. These protected green spaces ensure that the surrounding forest canopy will remain unchanged for generations.
The location provides remarkable accessibility despite its secluded woodland setting. Major metropolitan centers lie within comfortable commuting distance, while Detroit Metropolitan Airport ensures global connectivity for business and leisure travel. The township's strategic position places residents minutes from premium shopping destinations, fine dining establishments, and cultural venues while maintaining the privacy and tranquility of forest living.
Local amenities reflect the community's commitment to quality lifestyle. The nearby Kensington Metropark offers over 4,000 acres of recreational opportunities, including an 18-hole golf course, nature center, and extensive trail systems. The Huron River corridor provides additional outdoor recreation, while charming downtown areas in neighboring communities offer boutique shopping and dining experiences.
White Lake Township's development philosophy emphasizes preservation of natural features, resulting in neighborhoods where homes nestle among mature trees rather than replacing them. This commitment to environmental stewardship creates a unique suburban experience where residents enjoy modern conveniences while remaining connected to Michigan's natural heritage.
The broader Oakland County region provides access to world-class healthcare systems, cultural institutions, and business centers while maintaining the character of established communities. Seasonal recreation opportunities abound, from summer lake activities to autumn color tours and winter sports, ensuring year-round engagement with the natural environment that makes this location so distinctive.
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Curated Content • Presented by Dylan Tent