The finishing touches are now coming together on the 2009 Design Home, and the cumulative effect is nothing short of breathtaking.

Early this summer, landscapers and builders worked industriously to finish each exterior element of this exquisite Lake Michigan home. Once the actual construction was complete and heavy equipment no longer rolled around the grounds, landscapers and masons could finally work to amplify the home’s beauty and unite it with the natural surroundings.

Landscape architect Gary Kappes, president of Kappes Landscapes in Grand Rapids, chose plants that create an easy, delightful transition from the new landscaping to the backdrop of forest, dunes and lakeshore. The result is flowers, greenery and shrubs that fit well with the home and the site.

Kappes was involved with everything on the exterior, including retention and patio work. Retention was a key part of creating a gathering area close to the home, where the homeowners and their guests can enjoy the outdoors without going all the way to the lake. Kappes overcame the elevation challenges inherent to lakeshore homes, crafting an intimate “pocket” that ties the patio seamlessly into the home.

In addition to gorgeous landscaping, another element of this home’s exterior that lends its unique charm is the stonework. Belden Brick of Grand Rapids supplied the stone for the walls around the foundation, as well as for the chimney and exterior columns. Inside, fireplaces on the main and lower levels bear stone from Belden.

“BDR often likes to use real, natural materials throughout and outside the homes they build,” explains Todd Weston, residential salesperson at Belden. Belden supplied a blend of stones in a variety of shapes: rectangular, square and irregular-cut stones known as web wall. A range of colors also lends visual appeal to the home.

a“Real stone was really the best choice for this application,” concludes Weston. “It’s what is used most often on lakeshore homes, both because of its long wear and durability, and simply because it looks great.” Taking in the stonework around the home, perfectly complemented by the landscaping, certainly no one will argue with that.