SHORELINES

by the water: Low-impact l ake houses In the old days, lake houses were more like camp cottages — simple, rustic structures in which hot water and electricity were luxuries. Today, we expect lakeside homes to be built for year-round living, with all the modern conveniences we've come to depend on. That makes energy efficiency not just smart but essential. All these trends come together at Point William, an attractive new community on Smith Lake. "We're using natur al materials wherever possible, including wood, stone and stucco finishes." —Point Willia m de veloper John Hagefstr ation The green-minded design began with careful planning by Birmingham architects Shepard and Davis. Occupying a wooded, hilly peninsula, Point William offers 36 lots (including 20 waterfront ones) on 22 acres. The lots were sited to maximize views and preserve trees and common areas for recreation. "We're disturbing as little of the terrain as possible," says Point William developer John Hagefstration, who owns one of the waterfront houses. "And we're using natural materials wherever possible, including wood, stone and stucco finishes." The low-impact footprints and rugged terrain called for building up, not out. The houses have two or three stories, with cleanly Left: Photo by Billy Brown — The kitchen and dining room of developer John Hagefstration's home at Point William have a floor-to-ceiling view of Smith Lake. Above: Photo by Billy Brown — Natural materials are used throughout Mike and Robin McCutcheon's home on Smith Lake. S hor el i ne s | 2013 Vol:2 15

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