06/15/2026
🏡 A 1936 LAKEFRONT LEGACY REIMAGINED. FROM A SMALL COTTAGE TO A MODERN FAMILY HOME… RIGHT HERE IN DENVILLE NJ
Once in a while a project comes along that reminds me why I do what I do and why I’ve dedicated nearly 30 years of my life to this industry. Some projects are measured in months. This one was measured in years.
For nearly eight years, these homeowners dreamed about what their lakefront home could become. Plans were drawn, ideas evolved, and a vision slowly took shape for a complete transformation of their beloved 1936 lake house in Denville, New Jersey.
When they were finally ready to move forward, they entrusted Dream Concepts Contracting with bringing that vision to life, at the advise of their architect.
What followed was one of the most rewarding projects the Dream Team has ever completed.
Over the course of eight months, through summer heat, driving rainstorms, winter cold spells and the countless challenges that come with renovating a nearly 90-year-old home, we transformed this historic lakefront cottage into a stunning forever home while preserving the character and charm that made it special in the first place.
This was far more than a renovation. It was a complete reinvention.
A full add-a-level construction project and whole-home renovation that doubled down on craftsmanship, functionality, efficiency, and timeless design.
One thing was never up for discussion.
The original stone fireplace and chimney.
Standing proudly since 1936, it has been the heart of this home for generations. We knew preserving that history was essential.
To honor the home’s legacy, natural hand-cut stone was carefully selected and installed throughout the exterior, intentionally designed to complement and blend seamlessly with the original fireplace and chimney masonry. The result is a home where old and new come together as if they were always meant to be.
Inside, the transformation is remarkable.
Structural walls were removed to create a bright, open-concept floor plan designed around the way families live today. The kitchen, dining area, and living room now flow effortlessly together while maintaining a warm, inviting atmosphere centered around the original stone fireplace.
Natural light pours through the home from every direction thanks to all-new Andersen 400 Series and E-Series black windows and doors, creating incredible views of the surrounding lake community.
Project Features Include:
✨ Full Add-A-Level Construction
✨ Complete Interior & Exterior Renovation
✨ Schluter® Kerdi Waterproof Shower Systems
✨ White Oak Hardwood Flooring Throughout
✨ Custom White Oak Staircase & Rail System
✨ Open Concept First Floor Design
✨ Custom Two-Tone Kitchen
✨ Massive Furniture-Style Island
✨ Walk-In Pantry
✨ Custom Beverage & Coffee Station
✨ Quartz and Butcherblock Countertops
✨ High-Efficiency Mechanical Systems
✨ Completely Updated Electrical System
✨ Completely Updated Plumbing System
✨ Andersen 400 & E-Series Windows & Doors
✨ Tando Pacifico Cedar Shake Siding
✨ James Hardie Siding
✨ Trex Transcend Decking
✨ GAF Roofing System
✨ Natural Hand-Cut Stone Accents
While the finished photos tell an incredible story, they only show part of what went into creating this home.
What they don’t show are the hundreds of design decisions, thousands of construction hours, countless planning meetings, and the dedication of an incredible team of craftsmen and trade partners who poured themselves into every detail.
They don’t show the trust these homeowners placed in us while continuing to live on the property throughout construction, in a 24’ RV in the backyard!
They don’t show the commitment to communication, cleanliness, organization, and safety that allowed a major renovation to happen while family life continued around it.
And they don’t show the relationships that are built when a team works side-by-side with homeowners for months to create something truly special.
To our clients:
Thank you for your trust. Thank you for your patience.
Thank you for allowing us to be part of your family’s story.
Watching this home come back to life has been one of the highlights of our year.
As you scroll through these photos, you’ll see the entire journey—from the original 1936 lake cottage, through demolition, framing, rough construction, finish work, and the completed lakefront home that now stands ready for generations of wonderful family memories.
⭐ Most importantly, make sure you read the 5-Star Review at the end of this album.
After an eight-year dream and an eight-month construction journey, there is no greater compliment than hearing that we exceeded expectations.
Dream Concepts Contracting
“If You Can Dream It, We Can Build It.”
( this one really proved that!!!)
