Building and Deisign – March 09
Almanor Lakefront Home Transformed
Home decor has long been one of my favorite subjects since my mom used to drag me to drag me around to model homes when I was small, gathering ideas for her next home project. I was excited when I was recently contacted by local contractor Sean Gunn of almanor Custome Homes who had seen my ad seeking photos and details on great remodeling projects.
He invited me to the home of Lysle and Suzi Winchester at Lake Almanor who own and operate Almanor Insurance Services. Gunn has been turning their lake front jewel into the ‘pin and post’ design they have long dreamed of. Lysle showed me the cover of a magazine which showed the exact home they had intended to build. Instead, they have hired Sean Gunn of Lake Almanor to transform their existing home.
Overhanging florescent lights were removed and Gunn designed a new kitchen ceiling to add height. A wall was removed along with a closet to add a comfortable office for Lysle. Making the most of the space, was an important factor in the remodeling design. Gunn was able to add on to the existing top floor which houses a pool table and shuffleboard, to make 2 bedrooms, using unused space above the garage. A door on each end of the game room leads to each its own bedroom for guests, namely grandchildren, the Winchesters told me.
It’s no wonder they opted to STAY in this lovely lakefront location where the views extended across the lake to the west shore and beyond. They seem to be having a great time on this project. Lysle told me it has been a collaboration of ideas from the three of them to pull together the look they wanted. It is a work in progress I noticed as the three discussed a list of ideas to work on next.
They used a line up of local professionals for their ideas including the innovative glass enclosure leading to the front door. In the summer time, panes of glass are replaced with screens. This was the first of its kind handcrafted by Doug DeFabrizio of Lake Almanor who offers custom work in many applications. The incredible lodgepole pine staircase houses 5/8″ tempered glass, to preserve those magnificent views from the upstairs too. It was crafted by Sean Prior of Almanor Log Works.
Two hammered copper sinks sit side by side, one for the bar and one for the coffee. They pointed out their unique push button garbage disposal, giving credit to M Class Plumbing of Chester. The copper button sits neatly on the faucet base. Beautiful hickory kitchen floors from Maple Leaf Flooring just installed, awaited their finish as I hurried to take photos for our next edition.
Energy saving features include their new instant hot water system. They said they pay less for hot water now because they only heat what is needed. They added that they have never run short even with multiple showers and the dishwasher going.
It was a pleasure to meet the Winchesters and look into this beautiful home. Sean Gunn, General Contractor owns and operates Almanor Custom Homes.
