Phillip and Cheryl, joined by Cheryl’s brother Robert, approached our team with a vision: to breathe new life into their 650-square-foot cottage on Lake Como in Lake Geneva. This cherished retreat, held in the family for over 75 years, had long outgrown its original layout and lacked the modern touches and efficiencies today’s living demands.
After meeting with Jeff “Chopper” Anderson, the trio felt confident they had found the right partner to honor their family’s history while embracing a fresh, functional future. The goal was clear: maximize every square foot, introduce modern conveniences, and elevate the cottage’s aesthetic without losing its lakeside charm.
To achieve this, we brought the home down to its studs and started over with a clean slate. The kitchen and living room were opened to create a seamless flow between them. The highlight of the renovation is the stunning, oversized kitchen island, featuring sleek white quartz countertops, seating for four, and an integrated cooktop and drop-in oven. The island, combined with the open-concept floor plan, allows for uninterrupted sightlines straight through the living space and out to the lake via the new sliding glass doors.
As guests enter the home, they’re welcomed with practical and elegant space-saving solutions, including a built-in bench and custom cabinetry that form a smart “drop zone.” A new cathedral ceiling enhances openness throughout the main living area.
The home’s single bathroom, once a cramped necessity, was expanded and upgraded with a luxurious walk-in shower featuring full-height quartz walls and a frameless glass door. The new amenities deliver beauty and comfort without compromising on space.
Both bedrooms were fully renovated. In the primary suite, we reconfigured the closet to accommodate a full-size bed and nightstand, replacing the former twin bed layout. The secondary bedroom now offers comfortable accommodation for two, maintaining the home’s welcoming feel for additional guests. The adjacent laundry area was also updated.
To complete the transformation, we updated the home’s mechanical systems and integrated shiplap accent walls throughout, blending modern convenience with classic lake home charm.
This Lake Como cottage is no longer just a treasured family heirloom – it’s a refined retreat ready to create new memories for generations to come.
