As this lakeside home progresses, a profusion of natural materials firmly establishes the casual cottage feel of which the homeowners dreamed. To begin with, the wooden built-in and standard cabinetry showcase a variety of species and finishes.

Elements unique to this segment of the project include the living room and the dining room hutches and the wine rack in the kitchen, shares Aaron VanderGalien, who handles client relations at Pazzel Custom Cabinets. Pazzel, the Grand Rapids company that provided all the built-ins and cabinetry, incorporated special details that will enhance the beachside tone of the finished home, like the rattan featured in the doors of the master bath cabinets. Finally, a highly worn knotty alder bar completes the home’s comfortable character.

“We love working with Wayne Visbeen,” comments VanderGalien. “He is constantly stretching our abilities and allowing us to create some of the coolest pieces.” This synergy is most evident in the foyer vanity and built-ins, which are Visbeen creations.

The solid foundation of materials drawn from the earth continues on the floor. For this segment of the project, BDR brought in Century FloorSpace, a company they’d worked with many times in the past. Eric Boender, managing partner at the Grand Rapids company, details the uncommon origins of the 7-inch wide, 6-foot long floorboards used throughout the home.

Explaining the unique nature of this product, Boender shares that this dwelling will most likely be one of only five homes in West Michigan graced with the distinctive wood.

In many rooms, ceramic and stone tile will lend visual appeal. The tile work will include patterns, backsplashes, accent pieces and tiles of various sizes. For rooms with carpet, the choice is long-lasting, natural wool.

Century FloorSpace designer and account manager for this project with BDR, Mary Baumbach, ensured that this home brims with materials that reflect nature’s beauty. These elements will work together to create the perfect natural complement to the incredible splendor surrounding this Lake Michigan abode.