09/23/2026
The real challenge on this Lake Buell site in New Marlborough was a large knoll that cut the lake off from the entry drive.
We didn’t level it. We set the house into it instead. The house holds back the earth on the north side, while a terraced stone wall on the south side brings daylight into the lower level.
The clients wanted a mountain house, warm and a little moody, built for cold evenings by the lake. The exterior is clad in red cedar shingles with local stone and deep green trim. Inside, that same mountain character carries through in oak cabinetry, floors, and doors, along with slate tile and brass hardware.
The main living spaces open onto a stone terrace and pergola overlooking the water. We kept the mature pines along the shore, creating a treehouse feel while providing privacy from activity on the lake. Retaining walls and cut-granite stairs with rope handrails weave through the trees and lead down to the water.