Custom Lakehouse
Location
Salem, NH
Size
6,244 SF
Residing on the shores of Canobie Lake, this custom-designed lakefront home represents a refined balance between architectural precision, site constraints, and the Client’s vision for everyday living and entertaining. Situated on a compact 0.62-acre sloped lot, the project presented a clear and demanding challenge: every room in the home was required to capture a meaningful view of the lake.
RWH Architect addressed this challenge by carefully angling the home’s footprint to maximize the site’s 130 feet of waterfront while framing expansive views of sunsets and seasonal fireworks. The resulting form embraces the slope of the land, allowing the architecture to step naturally with the terrain while opening interior spaces toward the water. This strategic orientation ensured that no space felt disconnected from the lake, transforming the view into a defining architectural element rather than an afterthought.
Designed with entertaining at its core, the home features open-concept living spaces that flow effortlessly toward the shoreline. The kitchen anchors the main living level with top-of-the-line appliances and generous workspace, supporting both daily use and large gatherings. A sleek linear propane fireplace defines the living room seating area, adding warmth without interrupting sightlines to the water beyond. Large expanses of glass dissolve the boundary between indoors and out, guiding guests toward uninterrupted lake views from nearly every vantage point.
The first-floor primary suite is conceived as a private retreat, combining comfort and luxury with direct visual and physical connections to the lake. Expansive glass doors open toward the shoreline, while the suite includes a walk-in closet, a spa-inspired bathroom with walk-in shower, and a double vanity, all oriented to maintain a sense of calm and retreat.
On the second floor, guest bedrooms continue the home’s commitment to water-focused design, each offering panoramic lake views. Two full bathrooms and a welcoming den create flexible spaces for family and guests, reinforcing the home’s role as both a personal residence and a destination for gathering.
A two-car garage provides protected parking and ample storage for lake equipment, completing a design that is both elegant and highly functional. Through thoughtful planning and a deep understanding of the site, RWH Architect transformed a challenging footprint into a cohesive lakefront home where architecture, landscape, and lifestyle are seamlessly aligned.
