Governor’s Island House occupies two connected properties that span a peninsula on Lake Winnipesauke. At the foothills of the White Mountains, the island is home to a tight-knit community, with multiple generations living side by side.

Dividing the program into smaller structures suits the laid-back, welcoming atmosphere of the island. The main house faces southwest, with views across the water to distant mountains. Oriented eastward, a recreation barn and guest pavilion look beyond a wooded cove and through the lake. A slate path stitches the buildings together and links a series of outdoor seating areas. One walks through the property like a campus, with each part uniquely programmed yet clearly connected.

In the main house, a bright, modern living space lies just beyond the front door. The single-loaded floor plan is glazed along the western wall. Lush views of the shoreline and an abundance of natural light complement the crisp, minimal interiors.

A double-height window wall elevates the primary seating area, which is used for social events in the summer and family gatherings in the winter.

In the recreation barn, family board games and pool are played with a waterfront view. Exposed timber framing extends beyond the interior, creating an intimate outdoor patio. The exercise room on the second floor, used daily by the owners, enjoys direct views of both shorelines.

Under 2,000 square feet, the guest pavilion is designed to act as both a comfortable refuge for visiting family and as a future residence for the clients’ children. Sweeping views brighten the modern interior. In the living and eating areas, glazed garage doors easily lift, creating a direct connection to the tree-lined water and lawn. On each level, a full-size bedroom enjoys private shoreline views. The compact layout is functional and simple, allowing the incredible surroundings to take center stage.