Great Floor Plan on a Great Lake


Bayfield, Wisconsin

Lake Superior is a true gem for outdoor lovers. Its cool deep waters, steady winds and miles of shoreline provide a playground for young and old alike. It was this allure that drove John and Bette DeMars to sail out of Bayfield, WI for over 30 years and then eventually purchase a lot, extending their time in this scenic area. The steep site with stunning views of the Apostle Islands was just the vacation escape the Minnesota couple was looking for. With the perfect lot in hand, the next logical step was to design the perfect home away from home.

John and Bette were off to a great start when they got in touch with Timberpeg^® Independent Representatives, Duanne Swift of Butternut Creek LLC. and Randy Nilsson of Great Lakes Carpentry. Duanne and Randy immediately began the task of planning a layout which would satisfy all the requirements. The home needed to be small, energy-efficient and designed to take in all the great views. The solution was an "upside-down" floor plan. The main living areas are usually located on the first floor in most homes but the living room and kitchen of this home are on the second floor, while the bedrooms are located on the first floor.

It was an innovative and well thought out plan. Despite the unconventional arrangement the homeowners couldn't be happier. "When we're awake during the day we're almost always upstairs where the view is better and you can see the farthest out over the water." As avid sailors, the DeMars' chose fitting finishes to help bring their love of the water indoors. For instance the bathroom counters are made out of a teak grate like those used on sailboats. Other finishing touches include contemporary style metal railings and a library style ladder to the loft.

If you would like to contact the Independent Representatives who worked on this project, their contact information is:
Duanne Swift, Butternut Creek, LLC. - (715) 358-9490 - dswift@butternutcreek.com - www.butternutcreek.com
Randy Nilsson, Great Lakes Carpentry, Inc.- (715) 476-0122  - info@greatlakescarpentry.com - www.greatlakescarpentry.com