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Live In Harmony With Nature By: Julie Feldmann

Question: What type of home blends simplicity, comfort and nature?

Cue: The Jeopardy “thinking” music.

Answer: This Oconomowoc home, a contemporary masterpiece.

The home was designed by the seller, a renowned artist who had an affinity for the organic architecture of Frank Lloyd Wright. Combine the open layout with honest use of naturally sourced materials and the result is a profoundly p=eaceful energy that is carried from room to room.

The structure doesn’t sit on its lot. It belongs to the site, harmonizing with its natural landscape. Muted tones set the stage for this contemporary experience. Taupe siding reminds you and an earthen path in the woods. Generous use of natural fieldstone is a prominent feature and can be found in quarries throughout the state. Large picture windows allow natural light to flow inside, creating a seamless transition between nature and the interior.

With 4,000 square feet of living space this four bedroom, three-and-a-half bath home gives you room to breathe. It is built into a hillside, which offers a unique experience. When you walk in the front door the first thing you see is a wall of windows in the great room, and the view is a forest canopy! You might feel like you are in a tree house, but you won’t find a treehouse with these features.

The two-story great room is magnificent. In addition to the extraordinary view, a tall, fieldstone fireplace is a focal point, evoking a theme of warmth and family that is a mainstay in the principals of organic architecture. Efficient and functional use of space is also a hallmark of this style, as evidenced by built-in cabinets surrounding the fireplace.

The great room is open to a formal dining room with patio doors that lead to a second-story outdoor deck. And adjacent to the formal dining area, you’ll find the kitchen and informal dining area which has access to the same alfresco space. Yes, you can dine outside among the treetops when the weather is warm!

Clean lines in a light, airy kitchen produce a feeling of floating, apropos of the treetop view. Simple while upper cabinets, simple gray lower cabinets, gleaming white quartz countertops and clear glass light fixtures are sophisticated yet minimalist, allowing nature to remain the star of the show.

The staircase leading to the second floor is comprised of open slats, which sets the tone for what you’ll find upstairs. A galley or balcony overlooking the great room connects each end of the second floor, and treats you to the magnificent arbor view.

The second floor is for sleeping. The master bedroom has an ensuite bathroom designed to “take you away”. There is an oversized shower, and large soaking tub nestled into a rectangular window build-out. Surrounded by three walls of windows, you can climb into the tub and get lost in tranquility. There are two additional bedrooms on the second floor, with a shared full bathroom.

The exposed lower level of the home would make a dreamy creative space, inspired office, or center for recreation. It is bright and, you guessed it, replete with full-sized windows and doors to a ground level patio behind the home. A full bathroom on the lower level offers another interesting use. What about turning the space into an amazing master bedroom or private guest room?

Located on North Lost Woods Road, the street name fits the bill for a “world of its own” home. Yet you will also find major shops, grocery stores and other amenities nearby. Plus, it’s in a highly rated school district. So, if we’re being honest, it’s really a “best of both worlds” home.

Which leaves us with one final question: What is Lake Country known for, in addition to its scenic, glacial lakes?

Cue: The Jeopardy “thinking music”.

Answer: Lake Country is also celebrated for its beautiful, lush woods and rolling terrain.

Come take a look at this contemporary masterpiece and experience for yourself, what it feels like to live in harmony with nature.

1161 Lost Woods Road, Summit