A 
bird’s-eye view of the home shows its extensive outdoor living spaces on all three levels, photo by Kevin Day

• Objectives: The main objective of this remodel project was to work with the owners to incorporate their vision into a beautiful, functional and efficient design that meshes with the unique site characteristics. The owners wanted a gracious, striking home that emphasizes the breathtaking views of Lake Tahoe while creating the indoor-outdoor flow and living spaces to make their full-time dream home a family legacy. 

• Special and Unique Features: The three stories of stacked decks with incredible views of Lake Tahoe stand out as the home’s primary amenity. In the living room on the top level, sliding glass doors create a 10-foot-wide unobstructed opening, while the middle level features a staircase made of wood blocks stacked on a metal stringer, giving the illusion that the stairs are made of a single piece of wood. A decorative railing wall flanking the stairs uses steel bars that run from floor to ceiling, keeping an open feel while protecting users from a fall.

• Why it Won an Award: This home was a labor of love for the owner, and the project team exceeded every goal. The result is a home that is light, comfortable and functional and achieves the perfect blend of traditional Tahoe design with elegant and modern touches throughout.

Wood blocks were stacked on a metal stringer to create the illusion that this new staircase is a single piece of wood, while a decorative railing wall was created using steel bars running from floor to ceiling, photo by Brad Scott

Merit Award: Lake View

Building Design: Elise Fett & Associates, Ltd.

Builder: Catalyst Builders

Interior Design: Homeowner; Elise Fett & Associates, Ltd.

Landscape Design: Evergreen Landscape Development

Square Feet: 3,416