SeaBend is sited dramatically on a bluff, embracing a commanding view of a New England. The house is long and narrow, mostly one room deep, so that all the major rooms are open to both the north water views and the south sun, with breezes blowing through. The plan is geared to informal living, with the kitchen in the center to serve both indoor and outdoor living areas. Part of the fun was in seeing what happened when a broad gabled volume was bent to respond to the contours of the site and to begin to suggest an outdoor space on the water side. Keeping the gable roof un-bent while putting a crook in the plan resulted in some curious volumes and unexpected shapes, which you discover as you move around the house. Photography by Robert Benson

Situated on a private cove of Lake Lanier this stunning project is the essence of Indoor-outdoor living and embraces all the best elements of its natural surroundings. The pool house features an open floor plan with a kitchen, bar and great room combination and panoramic doors that lead to an eye-catching infinity edge pool and negative knife edge spa. The covered pool patio offers a relaxing and intimate setting for a quiet evening or watching sunsets over the lake. The adjacent flagstone patio, grill area and unobstructed water views create the ideal combination for entertaining family and friends while adding a touch of luxury to lakeside living.

Karen Bobotas

Webster, MA lake house. - Complete lakeside landscape renovation using boulders and ornamental grass plantings, New England fieldstone wall, granite steps, bluestone pathway and fire pit. - Sallie Hill Design | Landscape Architecture | 339-970-9058 | salliehilldesign.com | photo ©2008 Brian Hill

Rob Karosis

Entry, outdoor bridge

Screen porch complete with wicker furniture, an outdoor leaf ceiling fan, and a beautiful view of the lake

This classic Lake Sunapee home has a contemporary interior with spectacular views and an open floor plan designed for entertaining family and friends. Architectural design by Bonin Architects & Associates. Photography by William N. Fish

Interior alterations to open up the kitchen to enjoy the view of the lake and a new master suite addition on the second floor

This lakeside home in Horseshoe Bay was built as a retreat for the Houston family. They desired to have the pool cascade into the lake below, requiring it to be built on the second story of the home. This home was the recipient of the Texas Star Award for Best Outdoor Living Area.

Lake Front Country Estate Kitchen, designed by Tom Markalunas, built by Resort Custom Homes. Photography by Rachael Boling

Architecture by TMS Architects Photo Credit: Rob Karosis