The lakefront at this private residence was completely transformed after the construction of a breakwater-protected bay beach, as the property formerly had no public access to Lake Michigan. The project included construction of a quarrystone revetment, two flat-topped breakwaters, stone steps, and the addition of a boat house and a boat ramp to help increase the usability of the beach and lakefront. The beautiful winding stairs down the bluff were renovated from the property’s original Jens Jensen stairs. The native prairie and beach grasses helped restore what was an unsightly bluff devoid of quality vegetation.
Working closely with the landscape architect, Shabica & Associates approached the bluff restoration, breakwater design, revetment, vegetation and beach as integral elements with each part crucial to the success of the system.