Lake torch retreat gets a refresh: designers blend modernity with timeless charm

A Northern Michigan lake house traded its relaxed, lived-in feel for a sophisticated, functional space, proving that even vacation homes can evolve.

Lake torch home redesign: a balancing act

For the homeowners of a six-bedroom retreat on Lake Torch, the desire for their getaway to seamlessly integrate with everyday life sparked a complete redesign. James Thomas Interiors, led by principals James Dolenc and Tom Riker, returned to the property after a prior collaboration to address a key issue: a jarring lack of cohesion within the interiors.

The original architecture—boasting dramatic volumes and soaring ceilings—was a selling point. However, the interiors felt disjointed, a consequence of mismatched finishes. “It just felt heavy,” recalls Riker. The solution? A bold one: paint everything.

The homeowners, approaching retirement, initially had reservations, particularly regarding the potential impact on the value of custom woodwork. Yet, a mutual agreement on a creamy white palette unified the space, creating a calmer, more harmonious backdrop. “The architecture was always great—we just needed to let it shine,” notes Dolenc. The paint job breathed new life into the house.

Beyond aesthetics, the renovation focused on enhancing functionality. Lucas Goldbach of En Masse Architecture & design revised circulation patterns, expanding gathering spaces while carving out more intimate zones. A former patio transformed into a four-season dining room; the kitchen, designed to accommodate a family that enjoys entertaining, was expanded. A glass-lined connector now seamlessly links the main living areas.

The designers prioritized a casual flow, ensuring effortless movement between rooms. The refreshed sunroom, formerly an uninviting patio, is now a bright, heated retreat. In the kitchen, lamps inspired by classic library tables illuminate the island, transforming it from a prep station into a gathering spot.

The primary bedroom, originally a lofted space, gains intimacy through strategic paneling. Warm wood tones and tailored finishes carry through to the primary bath, where the mirror's placement optimizes both light and functionality. Even the study, part of the primary suite, retains wood paneling for a cozy atmosphere.

James Thomas Interiors, a Chicago-based firm, is known for crafting timeless, livable homes. Dolenc draws inspiration from East Coast architecture and the openness of the American West, while Riker’s background in antiques informs a layered, textural approach. The result? Interiors that feel both collected and enduring.

This isn't just a remodel; it’s a reimagining of how a vacation home functions – a space designed not just for escape, but for everyday living.

The design team’s commitment to clarity and connection transformed a lakefront retreat into a harmonious home, a testament to the power of thoughtful design.