Residential development techniques for Northern Michigan : designing a development to preserve and protect the natural features of the site

Abstract

Most of northern Michigan is rural with a few large cities or towns. Shoreline, trees, wildlife, and vistas dominate the area. These natural elements are what attract tourists, as well as seasonal and year round residents, to the state. This attraction has led to an increased growth in the amount of development occurring in northern Michigan, resulting in the loss of these natural features and the rural character of the area. This trend is especially evident in Leelanau County. This project demonstrates the design process for a rural residential development in Leelanau County that protects the natural features of the site. The project evolved through the design process from identifying the problem statement to documenting the final design.