In a wooded spot right beside Lake Butler in Windermere, Florida, this canal-side home by OSPA Architecture takes full advantage of its unusual waterfront setting, its location right at the meeting point of two canals. Arranged to open the site in its entirety, rather than simply to occupy it, the living space is extended by a generous patio and pool area that tempts with the luxe outdoor life. 

The main living spaces are arranged on the ground floor, where floor-to-ceiling glazing blurs the line between the interior, the terrace, and views of the water beyond. The floorplan was arranged to encourage natural light and cooling breezes to flow through the home, with open-plan rooms creating a relaxed interior layout that suits the climate. Upstairs, the private quarters take up the entire level. Four bedroom suites and a separate tv lounge are joined by the primary bedroom, where the carefully positioned floor to ceiling window frames sunrise views across the canal. 

Wrapping the building, deep overhanging eaves give the upper floor a sense of floating above the lower half of the home, the significance of these extra overhangs as shields for the interiors from the strong Florida sunshine. Designers OSPA Architecture sought to create a home bound to its surroundings, the home a frame for views around it – with a layout that opens wide to the water, sky, and the shifting light throughout the day.

Photography © Roberta Gewehr