On the shores of Geneva Lake, Reed Custom Builders undertook the comprehensive transformation of Lake Song — a historic Greek Revival residence owned by Bill and Bev Birck. What began as a 3,600-square-foot lakeside cottage has become a 7,000-square-foot, five-bedroom, four-full-bath home that nearly doubled in size while honoring every detail of its 19th-century architectural heritage.
Renovating a home of this age presented extraordinary challenges. The century-old structure required careful investigation before a single wall could move — outdated framing methods, non-standard dimensions, and materials no longer in production demanded creative problem-solving at every turn. Integrating modern structural requirements, updated load paths, and a fully expanded foundation into a building with over 100 years of history — without disrupting its architectural integrity — required meticulous planning and seasoned craftsmanship. Sourcing and replicating period-accurate millwork, molding profiles, and column details to match existing original elements meant custom fabrication throughout, ensuring no seam between old and new is visible.
The before-and-after contrast is striking. The original home featured a modest two-story facade with a centered portico and a single-level covered porch. The renovation expanded the lakefront presence dramatically: a full-width screened upper porch now spans the entire facade, supported by extended Corinthian columns that echo the original portico. Phantom screens make outdoor entertaining effortless, while oversized porches and balconies — with sweeping lake views from every level — invite guests to linger. The lower level was fully opened with large windows and new exterior access points, while a new stone fire pit patio and terracing extended the home's livable footprint to the water's edge. The original fieldstone foundation walls were preserved and seamlessly integrated into the expanded structure, anchoring the new construction in the home's history.
All mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems were fully replaced and upgraded to support the expanded footprint — a complex undertaking in a structure where original systems were deeply embedded in historic fabric. Architectural detailing — Corinthian columns, intricate stencil molding, and gas lanterns — was extended throughout the addition, ensuring the new construction is indistinguishable from the original.
Every interior finish was selected with intention: wide-plank white oak floors, alder coffered ceilings, three stone fireplaces, a marble-topped kitchen island, a custom bar with fluted wood detailing, a primary suite with beamed ceilings and lake views, and a spa-like bathroom with honed stone vanities and a freestanding soaking tub.
The project united a curated team: architect Ron McCormack of McCormack Associates Architects, designer Carly Loubeek of Studio M Interiors, Aday Custom Cabinetry, and Proulx Custom Tile with materials from Bella Tile.
Lake Song is a family legacy — a place where stories are passed down, memories are made, and beauty endures. A reminder that the best homes aren't just built; they're thoughtfully crafted, deeply personal, and designed to last.
