Located in Lake Mohawk, Sparta, NJ, this new residence incorporated some of the eclectic architecture found in this private lake community in northwest New Jersey.  The client requested a new home that would be down sized from their McMansion in Mahwah, NJ.  They wanted quality not quantity.  The 3,500sf house developed into a symmetrical form created by two large gables at its ends and then anchored with a vertical stair tower.  The stair tower became a strong element on the interior as well linking all three levels and providing glimpses of the lake.   The site topography allowed for the garage to be accessed at the basement level thereby creating a clean first floor.  The use of exposed wood throughout the interior helped provide warmth to the open plan.    (...more)