Raminentz

Named after a fairy tale about a magical place where kids could go if they were good, this summer home replaced a heritage cottage along the shore of Northport's Lake Michigan to make room for an ever-growing family.

This 8,000-square-foot shingle-style home features a spacious porch and bluestone patio accompanied by water views from nearly every room. The master suite and kitchen open to covered porches. Guest bedrooms and a playroom enjoy second-level balconies. The home is used primarily for summer vacations and features an individual suite for each family member and their children. The stone work that separates the property from the beach was created with a more traditional and relaxed feel.

The home was built to preserve and enjoy the surrounding landscape. A large open front porch and many windows allow for the family to take in the commanding views of Northport's west bay. The homeowners teamed up with interior designer Elizabeth Schmidt to bring bright colors into the decoration of the home.