LAKE MARTIN GUEST HOUSE
The Lake Martin Guest House (nicknamed “The Frog”) sits on the eastern shore of Lake Martin in Tallapoosa County, Alabama. Designed as both an extension of the main residence and a flexible rental, it offers space for family, friends, and visitors while expanding ways to experience the site.
​
Compact yet comfortable, it accommodates six guests across two levels. The ground floor features an open living and dining area anchored by a wood-burning stove and a deck overlooking the lake. A spiral stair leads to bunk space and private bedrooms above, maximizing capacity without sacrificing comfort.
​
Echoing traditional cabins, the gabled form is sharpened with modern detailing. Dark siding and crisp rooflines give it a contemporary edge, while large windows frame forest and water views. Inside, light-filled wood interiors balance warmth with contrast, drawing focus to the landscape.
​
Conceived as a whimsical retreat, the house reinterprets lake traditions with bold form, efficient circulation, and multi-functional spaces that enhance daily use and rental potential. It fosters connection among guests and between architecture and its setting.
​
More broadly, the project shows how small-scale residential design can be inventive, flexible, and economically responsive while remaining deeply rooted in place.
Location:
Alexander City, Alabama
Size:
Guest House: 1,200 SF