Candlewood Isle Lakeside Expansion
Construction
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This addition was designed to strengthen the home’s connection to Candlewood Lake while overcoming challenging terrain. The project combined extensive site work, custom retaining walls, and a thoughtfully designed rear addition with an elevated Ipe deck and glass railing system. The result is a seamless indoor-outdoor living experience with uninterrupted lake views, engineered for long-term durability on a steep, ledge-heavy site.
Location
New Fairfield, Connecticut
Category
Additions
Year
2012
Site Preparation & Lakeside Access
The project began with extensive site preparation to manage the steep, wooded slope leading down to Candlewood Lake. Select trees were removed to open views and improve access, and multiple retaining walls were constructed to create a safe, durable pathway from the home to the shoreline. These walls were carefully engineered to stabilize the hillside while integrating naturally into the surrounding landscape.
Rear Addition Design & Integration
The addition was designed as a rear bump-out to expand interior living space while maintaining architectural continuity with the existing home. A large new sliding glass door anchors the addition, drawing in natural light and framing expansive lake views. The design enhances functionality without overpowering the original structure, creating a natural transition between old and new.
Ipe Deck Construction
A new Ipe deck extends from the addition, providing a durable and refined outdoor living space suited for lakeside conditions. Ipe was selected for its exceptional longevity, stability, and rich appearance, making it ideal for a waterfront environment. The deck layout was carefully planned to maximize usable space while preserving the natural character of the site.
Glass Railing System for Unobstructed Views
To maintain uninterrupted views of Candlewood Lake, the deck was finished with a custom Ipe railing system incorporating glass panels. This modern solution provides safety without visual obstruction, allowing the lake to remain the focal point from both the interior and exterior living spaces.
Structural Engineering & Ledge Anchoring
Due to the site’s ledge rock conditions, structural performance was a key consideration. Portions of the deck footings were drilled and pinned directly into ledge rock, ensuring long-term stability and resistance to movement. This approach allowed the structure to be securely anchored while minimizing disruption to the surrounding hillside.
A Seamless Indoor-Outdoor Living Experience
The completed project successfully blends thoughtful site engineering, high-quality materials, and refined craftsmanship. From the retaining walls and lakeside access path to the rear addition, sliding glass door, and elevated Ipe deck, every element was designed to enhance the home’s relationship to Candlewood Lake. The result is a durable, visually striking addition that feels naturally integrated into its unique waterfront setting.
