myFORMKitchen

Catching Up with Andrew McCarthy: A Conversation About Design, Inspiration, and His Latest Project

We recently had the chance to sit down with Andrew McCarthy, developer and founder of Freshwater Development, to discuss his latest project on the shores of Lake Michigan. Here’s a look into how Andrew blends natural materials and modern design to create homes that reflect their surroundings. "Kitchens today are like what fireplaces were 20 years ago—the central gathering place."

Kristen Davis

November 22, 2024

Modern lakefront home with a two-story design featuring large glass windows that provide expansive views and connect the interior to the surrounding nature. The exterior showcases cedar wood siding and a gabled roofline, blending seamlessly with the lush forested backdrop. A tiered stone patio includes lounge chairs and seating arranged around a fire pit, offering a relaxing outdoor space. Stone steps lead up to the home, enhancing the rustic yet refined aesthetic of this peaceful retreat.

A Lakeside Ground-up Build

FORM: Hey Andrew, thanks so much for jumping on the call! It’s great to finally connect. Your development project looks amazing. I’d love to hear more about it. Was this a remodel or a new build?

Andrew: We’re developers, and we do both design and construction in-house. This particular house was a ground-up new build, which took about nine months from start to finish. It really pushed us to think creatively and connect deeply with the surrounding natural environment. We started construction in October, it was furnished and sold in mid June..

FORM : That’s an impressive turnaround! Nine months is pretty quick in the world of construction, especially in a remote location.

Andrew: It was a fast project. We have a strong team. Minutes, hours, days, weeks and months impact our critical path schedule. Our group likes to win, sometimes that requires 6 or 7 day work weeks and long hours. As the owner, we oversee all design, which enables us to procure materials in advance - paired with being the General Contractor, we are able to focus on cost, schedule, and the highest quality standards. Development projects for us are a team effort.

We focus on cost, schedule, and the highest quality standards.

Modern kitchen with floor-to-ceiling windows that frame lush green forest views, creating a seamless connection to nature. A central island with a light wood base and marble countertop is paired with four minimalist wooden stools. The ceiling features matching wood paneling, adding warmth to the space, while the cabinetry along the back wall is a sleek matte black, providing contrast and a refined look. Large sliding glass doors open to an outdoor grill area, enhancing indoor-outdoor flow and creating an inviting, airy atmosphere.

Connecting with Landscape

FORM: Tell me more about the design concept—what was your inspiration?

Andrew: This home is right on Lake Michigan with a private beachfront and a stream running through the property, so we wanted the kitchen, which I believe is the heart of a home, to embrace these natural surroundings. "Kitchens today are like what fireplaces were 20 years ago—the central gathering place." We designed it so everything flows outward from the kitchen, towards the lake. There’s a large 10-foot glass wall with no upper cabinets, so the view of the lake is uninterrupted.

FORM: It sounds beautiful! I noticed you used a lot of natural materials. Can you tell us more about that?

Andrew: The exterior of the home is clad in Eastern white cedar, which is untreated, so it naturally patinas and silvers over time. Inside, we kept the materials calm and authentic to our location, utilizing materials like white oak, limestone, and marble. Everything is meant to feel natural and timeless, like it belongs in the landscape. The home wants to age gracefully as it settles into its surroundings.. "From the moment you walk in the front door, we’ve designed moments that connect with nature, blurring the boundary between interior and exterior spaces.”

FORM Kitchen Finishes + Handles:
- Nero Oak Reproduction
- Integrated Handles

Sleek kitchen with floor-to-ceiling black cabinetry, providing ample storage and a bold contrast to the light wood flooring. The minimalistic design includes open shelves displaying curated decor items, adding subtle visual interest. A spacious island with a light stone countertop incorporates a built-in sink and modern faucet. The understated handles and flat-front cabinets contribute to the kitchen's refined, contemporary aesthetic, creating a functional and stylish workspace.

An Efficient Design Process

FORM : How did you find working with FORM Kitchens?

Andrew: I actually split my time between Brooklyn and Michigan, and FORM’s previous studio was right around the corner from my condo in DUMBO, Brooklyn. When I started working with Dorothy and Michael from FORM, I could tell right away that they were design professionals, with a clear process driven approach. "FORM made the process efficient, and iterative from the initial shop drawings to project completion." It’s not easy to get every detail perfect, but FORM really delivered. I’ve worked with a lot of cabinetry companies in the past, but the FORM team stood out.

FORM : That’s great to hear! Dorothy has a background in interior design, so it sounds like you two were a perfect fit. How did you feel about the experience of buying everything online?

Andrew: I do this for a living, so I’m used to it, but FORM made it a really comfortable experience. The team was top-notch, and while no building project is ever seamless, they got as close to perfection as possible. It was a great partnership.

It’s not easy to get every detail perfect, but FORM really delivered.

Open-concept kitchen and living area with large sliding glass doors offering stunning lake views and a seamless connection to the outdoors. The kitchen island features a sleek black base with light wood accents and a marble countertop, complemented by a modern pendant light. Warm wood beams and a matching wood ceiling add rustic charm, while light hardwood floors enhance the airy feel. The living space in the background includes a cozy stone fireplace and contemporary seating, creating an inviting environment that blends modern design with natural beauty.

Cabinetry in Other Rooms

FORM : You worked with FORM Kitchens on multiple rooms in this project, right? Could you walk us through the spaces?

Andrew: Yes, we used FORM across several key areas of the home:

- Main Kitchen

- Laundry Room

- Mudroom

- Kitchenette in the loft

Bright and spacious laundry room with a minimalist design, featuring a side-by-side washer and dryer set topped with another for stacked efficiency. White cabinetry offers ample storage, while a built-in black countertop with a modern faucet provides functional workspace. A cozy bench with striped cushions and open shelving underneath adds a practical seating area. A tall glass door at the end of the room brings in natural light and offers a view of lush greenery outside, creating a serene atmosphere.

New Projects on the Horizon

FORM : What’s next for you after this project?

Andrew: Freshwater is actively developing a mixed use building on a premier corner in downtown Traverse City, near the beach, marina, and across from Rotary Square Park. The development consists of two oversized residences above ground floor retail. This project pays homage to the existing structure built in 1900, while introducing a subtle pallet of natural materials, sustainable finishes and fixtures, and high-end appliances. Each residence will offer an abundance of natural light from three exposures, private elevator for each unit, private parking, five bedroom homes, oversized living and entertainment spaces, private roofdeck with lake views, and outdoor kitchens. Delivery is planned for Summer 2025.

FORM : We can’t wait to see what you create next! Thanks again for taking the time to chat with us, Andrew. It’s been great hearing about your process and working together on such a unique project.

Andrew: Thank you! I’ve enjoyed working with FORM, and I’m looking forward to sharing more soon.

A private roofdeck with lake views.

Images: Freshwater Developments
Web: https://freshwaterdevelopments.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freshwaterdevelopment/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/freshwater-development/

Aerial view of a secluded lakefront property nestled within a dense, lush forest, with a picturesque sandy beach and vibrant blue water stretching out beyond. The modern home, partially visible through the trees, is positioned close to the shoreline, offering direct access to the lake. The scene captures the tranquility and natural beauty of the setting, with expansive water views and dense greenery providing a serene and private retreat

FAQ Section:

How long did it take to complete this project?

The entire project took about nine months from start to finish, which included both the design and construction phases.

What materials were used in this project?

The exterior is clad in untreated Eastern white cedar, which patinas naturally over time. Inside, natural materials like white oak, limestone, and marble were used for a timeless, calming effect.

Which rooms were designed with FORM Kitchens?

FORM Kitchens provided cabinetry for the main kitchen, laundry room, mudroom, and a kitchenette in the garage loft.

How was the experience of buying a kitchen online with FORM?

According to Andrew, the process was smooth, thanks to the professionalism of FORM’s team. The shop drawings and final touches were well-managed, and FORM stood out compared to other cabinetry companies.

What finishes and handles were used?

The cabinetry featured Nero Oak Reproduction with integrated handles, creating a sleek, modern look.

Other modern FORM Projects to Browse:

1. Modern A-Frame Kitchen Remodel in Wisconsin

2. A Modern Kitchen for a New England Ski Retreat

3. The Ultimate Modern Farmhouse Kitchen Tour