Crooked Tree Lodge

Crooked Tree Lodge is a residence that quietly reimagines the “American Lakehouse” through the lens of New Zealand’s architectural sensibility. Drawing inspiration from the region’s affinity for natural materials and seamless integration with the landscape, the home embodies a refined simplicity that resonates with both place and purpose.

Organized as three gabled pavilions housing the main living area, the primary suite, and guest accommodations drawing inspiration from rural farm buildings common to the region. These forms are connected by floating bridges that create a rhythmic transition between volumes, emphasizing separation while preserving continuity. A board-formed concrete base anchors the home into the hillside, while thermally modified New Zealand-sourced timber and locally quarried Alabama stone provide a muted, tactile palette. These materials, selected for their durability and quiet character, help the home settle gently into the native forested context.

Selective Asian-influenced plantings and layered landscaping soften the threshold between house and site, enhancing a sense of serenity and shelter. Expansive windows and sliding openings frame uninterrupted views of the lake and forest, allowing the outdoors to pour into the living spaces with ease. Internally, the architecture is restrained and purposeful with natural light animating the interior surfaces throughout the day.

The interiors continue the material clarity of the exterior: natural timber, subtle stone accents, and a neutral palette bring a sense of warmth and stillness. The spaces are defined by a sense of openness and connection to the outdoors. Expansive windows frame views of the lush surroundings, inviting natural light to permeate the interiors and fostering a harmonious relationship between the built environment and nature. The layout emphasizes a fluidity of movement, with rooms that flow effortlessly into one another, promoting a sense of tranquility and continuity.

The integration of New Zealand design principles into this lakeside context is evident in the home’s emphasis on craftsmanship, material honesty, and a deep respect for the local environment. Crooked Tree Lodge stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of thoughtful, place-based design, offering an enduring piece of architecture within its Southern setting.