Custom Dock 4

One phrase defines this design. “We will get it to work!” The design came with many site challenges right out of the gate and in fact a design that had been previously submitted for permitting at the 11th hour came back with a qualifier which the regulatory agency simply stipulated to cover themselves and put the whole project on hold. The resolution was for the builder to introduce my end client to me and ask me to figure out how they could get what they want. To be sure, this is usually what builders are hired to do, but the pencil had not been sharp.  Let me explain… The client’s shoreline was in a “tight” cove which meant it had limitations for how far it could go across the cove and infringe on watercraft access to a community dock. This was the main issue, but once this was established, the ability to moor boats, gain access to boat slips and locate the dock on the shoreline became significant design challenges.

Although we rely on our clients to indicate the final choice of location of their docks, the design process could not start until the geometry was done on all the setbacks for this site. Using best estimates and then field measurement verification, the building envelope was determined. This then had to be signed off on by our client before we could start.  We also worked with the builder to assure the design location met with their ability to re-permit the build with Duke, the regulatory agency. Although the end client's name is on the application, builders will often draft this permit paperwork and assure it is in place before they start a build.  Our dock clients need to be aware of how this works!

So onward, we have a build envelope and can now start to fill the needs and wants coming from the answers on the pre design questionnaire our firm provides and covers in what is normally the introduction call with the client. The needs – a boat lift within a floating boat slip, but with a permanent roof structure mounted on fixed pilings into the lake bed. The slip needed to capacitate a 24’ pontoon boat. The floating structure needs to allow enough surface space to allow free walk around the slip, but still stay out of the setbacks and provide for the ability to land paddle boards and kayaks with storage for each.  The slip area needed to be to the back of the cove so that the desired living area would not look through the boat slip, nor would the home's main living area or second floor terrace remodel. In addition, a shore accessible living area was desired that would allow a set of steps going down into the water to access the waterside of the living area. As you can tell, accessibility and flow are critical. What was also critical is that these features have ascetics that blended with the shoreline and the existing residence architecture.

In short, the design landed perfectly with the client at their reveal, with some minor adjustments to meet with the client’s space planning needs for furniture and allow for future additions at the shore.