Modern Barn Retreat, a residential architecture project, Northworks

A rustic retreat amongst the dunes

A compelling vista of vast skies and undulating sand dunes set the scene for this unique residence in central Wisconsin. Featuring eight bedrooms over 8,850 square feet, the modern barn combines rustic-inspired charm with the allure of a recreational retreat.

The recently completed resort residence is sited at the newly opened Lido Club golf course, adjacent to Nekoosa’s Sand Valley. A scenic nature preserve of restored native prairie land is also nearby. For this project, the Northworks team created a welcoming three-story house that sleeps up to 16 guests. With a consciously efficient layout that creates a relaxed flow, the barn is an ideal space for gatherings large and small. One gable end reveals the central entry, leading through a foyer, kitchen, bar, dining area, living room, and porch – each connected room-to-room, without the need for hallways. The second floor and basement levels feature four en-suite guest suites apiece, the latter bedrooms opening out to a lower terrace stepped into a dune. The main floor is dedicated to entertaining, offering expansive views of the landscape, private lake, and the distinctive recreation of the island green of Hole #17 at TPC Sawgrass.

Working with our creative client, the Northworks team settled on a design approach that culminated in a simple agrarian structure sharpened by a seemingly random rhythm of shed dormers.

The barn is wrapped in western red cedar wood siding of varying stain tones for a rustic allure. A massive multi-flue stone chimney effectively anchors the build, whilst its roof is formed by a standing seam steel panel structure. Inside, warm interior finishes encompass European white oak, plus wool and leather furnishings, resulting in a warm, comfortable ambiance for intimate family gatherings.

STANDOUT FEATURES

Just a few steps from the barn terrace, a 5-hole, 3-par golf challenge heightens the outdoor fun to be had at this residence. Designed by Oliphant Golf, the short course crisscrosses across a five-acre pond, culminating in a final hole on the island. If one does not feel the urge to swing a golf club, the spring-fed pond is also the perfect spot for a refreshing swim.

By framing both specific and panoramic moments within the landscape, each room of the home elicits a special feeling of connectedness to the site.

ON REFLECTION

This project is a shining example of the architectural concepts we are continuing to evolve at Sand Valley. Our team is now progressing from the initial offering of lodges and prototype cabins to elevated new amenity buildings, in addition to high-end resort residences.

Our Approach