Vacation home has great views all around

The Lakeview is a vacation home designed to take full advantage of a panoramic view. Built on a plot of beach or lakefront land, this small home lets you continue enjoying the out-of-doors even when you have to come inside.

Stacks of glass fill most of the wall space on three sides of the lofty vaulted great room. Doors on both sides provide cross-ventilation and open onto a covered porch that wraps around this dramatic living area.

A large fireplace separates the great room from the dining room and serves as a warm focal point on chilly days. The ceiling in front of the fireplace is a full two stories high. The hearth is overlooked from vantage points on either side of the wide chimney that stretches upward by the second-floor loft. Outfitted with bunks, the loft can provide additional sleeping space when needed.

The U-shaped kitchen is brightened by a bay window and has plenty of counter space. A compact, piggyback washer/dryer combination is nestled in an alcove under the stairs. Sliding doors open onto a small back deck shaded by a wooden arbor. This area could be screened. A storage area is also conveniently located off the deck.

Both the Lakeview's lower and upper bedrooms have walk-in closets and a bathroom. The upper bathroom is slightly larger and has a shower. The compartmentalized lower bathroom allows one person to perform grooming activities at the basin while another uses the tub or toilet.