Lake House Retreat

This 20-year-old lake house on Lake Kawaguesaga in Minocqua, Wisconsin, received a full-scale renovation guided by a desire to preserve the character of the original house while thoughtfully bringing it into the present.

Rather than stripping the home of its history, we identified the elements worth preserving and allowed them to inform the renovation. The existing interior was heavily wrapped in red oak—the floors, the wall paneling, and all of the cabinetry. We removed much of the paneling to lighten the home, while preserving it in select areas to maintain a sense of warmth and history.

Every bathroom was renovated, the bar was completely reconfigured, and its pass-through to the kitchen was enlarged to better connect the home’s gathering spaces. Original stone fireplaces were preserved for their connection to the exterior architecture, but thoughtfully updated for a more current expression. Architectural and decorative lighting was replaced throughout.

Our team also furnished the home in its entirety, layering comfort, color, and pattern into a palette inspired by its Northwoods setting. The two-and-a-half-year renovation resulted in a lake house that feels timeless, welcoming, and completely renewed.