The project goal for the Day family was to create a year round dream home for a couple who have owned a lakefront summer cottage in Ossipee, New Hampshire. Nestled in a wooded area, the house needed to be big enough to have large family gatherings, yet comfortable enough for the couple to enjoy everyday life during each season of the year. In addition it was important that the house convey a welcoming, comfortable, and informal feel. The use of exterior materials such as natural stone, and clapboard siding aid in this endeavor; the house massing, dormers, pitched roofs work to blend in with other lake-front properties, creating a sense that the house has always been on the property. Inside, the rooms are aligned for maximum views of the lake. The windows are nicely sized to take advantage of the wonderful natural light. The sloping site works to provide a walk-out basement that serves both as a gathering area which can double as additional guest sleeping. The ground floor has a large open kitchen-dining-living area. There is a separate meeting area and screened in porch providing additional quieter gathering moments. The second floor has a master suite plus two additional guest bedrooms. connecting the different levels is an open stair, utilizing the warmth of the natural wood with see-through black metal balusters.