Welcome to PURE MICHIGAAS. No, that’s not a typo—it’s the spirited nickname for a thoughtfully designed compound nestled on four wooded acres near Lake Michigan. Architect Lisa Jaffe of Jaffe Architecture + Interiors shares how this multi-building retreat came to life with local inspiration, sustainable practices, and one especially charming material: Thermory Benchmark Pine.
First things first — who was this home designed for?
“This southwest Michigan residence sits on four wooded acres and was designed as a new build for a retired couple. After years of downsizing, they were ready to create a second home where their entire family—grown children, grandchildren, and even the dog—could gather.”
Consider it the un-retirement plan: a place designed for multi-generational connection, and laid-back comfort, all under one (gable) roof. What better way to welcome the chaos of multi-generational gatherings than with a family friendly great room, durable materials, and smart planning?
Can you give us a quick tour of the layout?
“The entry is intentionally placed between the private and public buildings, creating a natural flow that separates functions while bringing the compound together. The pool house doubles as a screened porch with oversized barn doors and retractable panels—perfect for warm-weather entertaining.”
It’s more than a house—it’s a retreat. A place where grandkids can cannonball into the pool, the adults can unwind, and even a hidden dog run with its own dedicated shower. Every detail supports ease, flexibility, and fun.
What was the architectural vision?
Think rustic modern meets Michigan barn. The clients wanted a home that felt grounded in the landscape—simple forms, durable materials, and a natural patina that would age beautifully.
“After exploring several cladding options, we chose Thermory for its beautiful character, natural patina and longevity. Its weathered, silvery finish worked beautifully inside and out—on the main house, the pool house, and in the foyer.”
Thermory Benchmark Pine, meet your moment. Finished with Cabot Bleaching Stain, the cladding strikes the perfect balance: natural, rustic, and quietly refined – simply stunning.
What makes Thermory a standout for this project?
It blends seamlessly with its surroundings—and holds up beautifully in them. We’re talking woodland, wind, wildlife – and woodpeckers.
“Its thermally modified composition makes it a durable choice for a wooded site. It provides natural resistance to environmental elements, which was critical in this heavily wooded context.”
Sustainability sounds like a major focus. Can you tell us more?
“We made sustainability a priority wherever possible—from using insulated windows and spray-in insulation to installing LED lighting throughout. These are simple, effective choices that help reduce environmental impact.”
Simple. Smart. Subtle. Every decision, from materials to systems, was made with care—resulting in a home that feels grounded, efficient, and enduring.
What’s the indoor-outdoor flow like?
Breezy. Literally and figuratively. With an east-west orientation, the house captures natural light and ventilation throughout the day. Sliding glass walls open wide to invite in lake breezes, while the same Thermory cladding used outside continues into the foyer, blurring the boundary between indoors and out.
“The interiors reflect the architecture—modern but warm, clean-lined but welcoming. The same cohesive palette and low-maintenance finishes used on the exterior carry throughout the interiors.”
Any design secrets we should know about?
Absolutely.
“We used vertical nickel gap paneling to fully conceal doors to utility spaces and powder rooms. This allowed us to maintain a clean, uninterrupted aesthetic even in the most functional parts of the plan.”
Another favorite: the exterior corners were left trim-less. Instead, tight miter joints were detailed with exposed corner keys that celebrate how natural materials shift over time.
“To execute that, we sourced an aluminum trim not originally intended for wood. It became a small but meaningful moment of craft and contrast.”
This isn’t just minimalism—it’s minimalism with intention. Smart detailing, bold choices, and a desire to let the house age gracefully.
Last but not least—what does “Pure Michigaas” mean?
“It’s our way of capturing the spirit of the place. This private, woodland home near Lake Michigan is meant for gathering, celebrating, and making memories together.”
(“Mishigas” is a Yiddish word for “craziness”—but the good kind.)
This home is equal parts thoughtful and spirited. It’s as much about what it feels like as how it looks. And that’s the real magic.
At Jaffe Architecture + Interiors, every home is crafted with care—from site strategy to material expression, from daily rituals to lasting legacy.
Design isn’t just what you see—it’s what you feel, what you remember, and how you live.
