The Huff Family Lake House project was designed to evoke the timeless charm of Americana, drawing
from personal memories of lakeside retreats and traditional Ralph
Lauren aesthetics.
This project reflects a deep appreciation for classic, high-quality materials, with spaces accented in rich wood, natural stone, and subtle craftsmanship.
Beyond Initial Research
I tasked with creating individual Pre-Design Handbooks encompassing three broad chapters: General Research, Precedent Studies, and Programming Requirements. The book takes a deep dive into the geographic location in which we were working. This includes research of the Lake Martin, Alexander City, and Tallapoosa County areas, listing utility needs and community guidelines specific to the neighborhood.
In addition, we completed a client profile and background based on interviews with the family.
The initial design inspiration arose from my experiences on the lake, where family gatherings, boat rides, and warm, fireside memories shaped my perception of what a welcoming, hospitable home should feel like. Merging this personal vision with the Huff Family’s values,
I aimed to create an environment reminiscent of an old wooden boat gliding across a deep-blue lake, an American flag waving above, and the scent of firewood in the air. These foundational elements encapsulate the timeless Americana aesthetic while inviting moments of warmth, connection, and understated luxury.
design narrative
The home invites visitors into a world where heritage and elegance blend seamlessly, beginning with a grand wooden front door. The entry flows into a living area filled with natural light and plush furnishings, creating a setting where family memories can be formed. The bright and marble-topped kitchen anchors the home as a culinary hub, while a cozy breakfast nook offers a spot to curl up with morning coffee, set against a backdrop of hand-crafted furniture by Chisel & Wood in Dadeville, Alabama.
Art in the home was chosen thoughtfully to reflect the family’s appreciation for meaningful pieces. One focal point is the living room wall, adorned with works by local artist Annie Bartol, whose abstract creations echo the colors of Lake Martin. In the primary bedroom, the blue-striped wallcovering and Ralph Lauren bed frame capture a classic, lake-inspired feel, complemented by a vintage-style, hand-drawn map of Lake Martin by artist Jim Denney.
The Huff Family Lake House serves as a retreat, woven with traditional Americana aesthetics and an aura of comfort, connection, and family. It’s a reflection of memories and meaningful design—a haven where every space tells a story.
workflow &
software integration
The design and rendering of the Huff Residence utilized a combination of AutoCAD and Revit—an uncommon but intentional pairing—to enhance my skills as a student. SketchUp and Photoshop were instrumental in modeling and rendering, while Adobe InDesign helped establish a cohesive visual presentation and layout.