Simpler is better in the nifty Northlake

The Northlake is a minimalist's dream. This cozy vacation cottage would be at home on a lake, ocean beach, or tucked into a mountain grove.

Slender wooden posts support a gabled entry porch, while perennially charming craftsman-style windows sparkle across the front. Cedar shingles fill the two front-facing gable ends, both of which are accented by decorative supports.

Abundant natural light spills into the vaulted entry and living room through a transom and clerestory windows. This room has a surprisingly spacious feel. The ceiling line rises up from the front, peaks, then slopes down at the rear. Even the lowest parts of the ceiling are several feet higher than average.

Natural heat emanates from a clean-burning, low maintenance pellet stove that nestles into a brick lined alcove by the stairs. The built-in cabinet that fills most of the rear wall has a display area on top. This could serve as shelving for books and games, while housing a home entertainment center as well.

Sliders on the left access a screened porch, ideal for bug-free outdoor meals.

The kitchenette is directly to the right of the entry. Its ceiling is lower, but otherwise this space is totally open to the great room. Cupboards, counters and appliances rim two walls. Twin windows fill half of the third, creating a delightful view from the kitchen table.

A combination bathroom/utility room, and a storage room fill out the rest of the Northlake's main floor. Washer and dryer are stacked, to maximize space usage. Additional storage is also available under the stairs. Double doors in the vaulted loft upstairs open onto a front-facing balcony with a wooden handrail.