Glen Lake Tower

What were the circumstances of receiving the commission for this project?

The clients approached Balance Associates with the goal of creating “a sustainable retreat that reflects the timeless beauty and simple comforts of the area.” They had seen Balance Associates’ cabins in publications and had browsed our website. They were drawn to the firm’s successful blending of a modern aesthetic with comfort and livability. It also helped that design principal Tom Lenchek is a native Midwesterner; the clients were confident that he would share their appreciation of Michigan and the Glen Lake area.

Can you describe your design process for the building?

The clients’ program called for a relatively small cabin, possibly all on one level. This would have been a reasonable solution, since the hilltop site is pleasantly surrounded by deciduous forest. Then, curious what the view above the trees might be, the clients rented a bucket lift and rode above the forest canopy. They were blown away by views all the way out to Lake Michigan and excitedly sent a DVD of their experience to Tom. The idea for a tower was born. 

Conceptually, the tower is composed of two metal-clad “fin” walls rising from the crown of the hill with a plywood “box” suspended between them. The metal skin is more opaque, with punched openings. The plywood walls that enclose the stacked interior peel away as they move higher up the tower, culminating at the fourth floor, where window walls with sliding patio doors literally open up the primary living space to expansive cantilevered decks. The plywood and metal-clad elements are stitched together by a more delicately textured steel stair that moves from exterior to interior and from more to less private spaces as it ascends the tower.

How does the building compare to other projects in your office, be it the same or other building types?

At Balance Associates, we are lucky enough to frequently design homes set in breathtaking natural landscapes. We do not believe it is possible for architecture to compete with gorgeous mountain ranges, lakes, rivers and so on. As a result, we challenge ourselves to design unique and beautiful houses that nevertheless blend into their surroundings. A tower by definition calls attention to itself, so the Tower House stands out in the Balance Associates portfolio. Yet the form is in fact a response to the site’s wooded surroundings and ultimately feels very appropriate.  

Are there any new/upcoming projects in your office that this building’s design and construction has influenced?

With every project it is our desire to balance client goals, site sensitivity and climatic response to create a high quality home that is both beautiful and functional. Each one of our projects is influenced by previous designs. We are working on some great new projects across the US (visible on our "work in progress page") and each has their own unique site, client, and story to be told.

How would you describe the architecture of Michigan and how does the building relate to it?

Residential architecture in rural Michigan must balance the seemingly opposed requirements of sheltering inhabitants from a climate of thermal extremes and celebrating the beauty of the surrounding lakes and woods. The owners of Glen Lake Tower House truly love this special area of northern Michigan. The design reflects their desire to invite the landscape in through extensive glazing and expansive decks at the topmost floor, yet still feel enclosed in the comforts of home. These twin goals are achieved in practical ways through intelligent construction, insulation, quality windows, and durable materials. Just as importantly, the meticulously detailed, birch-lined interior enhances the sense of the house as a special, protected refuge.

Email interview conducted by John Hill.