Golden Days

When I was young, (plain) donuts and cider at a local farm were a Sunday must for my family. Today, my husband and I continue that tradition with our two kids. We’ll grab a dozen donuts (they prefer cinnamon sugar) and a gallon of crisp, cold cider, and we’ll take the tasty treats over to our truck, where we delight in enjoying the seasonal experience on the back of our tailgate — pure fall bliss.

I think many people will agree that when it comes to seasons, fall is where Michigan shines brightest. From Saturdays spent apple-picking to drives north to see the trees’ changing hues, backyard bonfires with friends, maybe a last refreshing dip in the pool before it closes, and of course that gorgeous autumnal glow that lights every lake — there’s just something magical about fall.

When it came to planning this issue, I looked for projects that gave that quintessential cozy fall feel, sparked the excitement a changing season always delivers, and showcased the wonderful natural landscapes we’re so lucky to have here.

From a family’s seasonal retreat on Baw Beese Lake (and, yes fall, is their favorite time to visit!) to an eclectic remodel in Ferndale where a green-tiled fireplace with hearthside seating beckons when the temperatures cool down, this issue of Detroit Design fully embraces fall.

In our pursuit of autumn’s glory, Detroit Design headed west to Lake Michigan, where we dove into two waterfront homes: a new-build that takes advantage of its lake views and the breathtaking dunes that surround it, and a head-turning renovation of an historic Winston Elting-designed home. We then headed north to Harbor Springs, where a 100-year-old cottage got a luxe refresh and a gorgeous new addition. Back in Birmingham, a warm contemporary with not one — but two — double-sided linear fireplaces welcomes indoor/outdoor living.

Whether you enjoy an evening on your patio watching the falling foliage or instead prefer cozying up indoors with a good read and a cup of locally-brewed coffee, the team at Detroit Design encourages you to not only discover — but embrace — your own seasonal hygge. We sure know that’s what we’ll be doing!