2020
Built on the Shores of Geneva Lake
A Vision Brought to Life
In mid-2020, John Engerman purchased a scenic lakeside lot in Williams Bay, Wisconsin. The property, nestled along the shores of Geneva Lake, originally featured a small, outdated cabin. With a vision to transform the lot into a stunning custom home, John collaborated with architect Justin Bucy of CoBu Architecture to design a residence that would maximize the narrow 55-foot-wide space while embracing the beauty of its lakefront setting.
From Spec Home to Custom Dream Home
As construction began, interest in the property quickly grew. An interested buyer inquired about the home and expressed a desire to purchase it. Upon acquiring the property, they worked closely with the team to modify the design to better suit their lifestyle and aesthetic. The staircase was reconfigured, the primary bedroom was relocated to the main floor, and thoughtful details were added to enhance the home’s personality and functionality.
A Home That Tells a Story
What makes this home truly exceptional is its deeply personal touches. The new homeowner, an avid traveler and collector, envisioned a space that reflected her unique experiences and cherished memories. Having previously lived in a home just a few miles away on a lake lane, there were aspects of that residence she wished to carry into her new home. One of the most sentimental pieces was a beloved bathroom sink, which was carefully removed from her previous house and integrated into the new design, preserving a tangible piece of her past.
Beyond that, the home is a reflection of her global inspirations. Throughout the house, carefully curated elements—from vintage lighting sourced from abroad to museum-style displays for an art collection—add character and individuality.
One particularly striking feature of the home is its custom-designed entryway. The buyer often took photographs of unique entry arches from her travels, capturing different styles that inspired her. She admired certain aspects of each, and John Engerman, with his creative vision, skillfully combined these ideas into a beautifully crafted entrance. The result is a one-of-a-kind focal point that reflects her personality and adds to the home’s distinct character.
Another highlight of the home is the stunning fireplace, adorned with an assortment of Blue Delft tiles collected by the homeowner. Each tile was hand-selected and thoughtfully arranged by our skilled tile installer, ensuring that the design was both visually captivating and deeply personal. This attention to detail transformed the fireplace into a true centerpiece, adding warmth and history to the space.
Collected tiles turned into a masterpiece.
Embracing the Essence of Geneva Lake
This custom lake home is more than just a beautiful residence; it is a seamless blend of thoughtful design, craftsmanship, and a deep connection to both the homeowner and the surrounding environment. Set against the picturesque backdrop of Geneva Lake, the home captures the spirit of Williams Bay—a community known for its charm, tranquility, and love for the water.
Through a collaborative effort and a commitment to personalization, this one-of-a-kind home stands as a testament to how architecture, design, and individual vision can come together to create something truly extraordinary.
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