SpotLab Transforms Home Remodeling in Northern Michigan

News Summary

SpotLab, a design/build firm led by Tessa French and Zeb Burge, is revolutionizing home remodeling in Northern Michigan. Specializing in whimsical designs and unique spaces, the duo’s journey from retail professionals to innovative home renovators has inspired clients to embrace creativity in their own projects. Notably, their work on a geodesic dome and a log cabin kit showcases their bold approach and commitment to practical design, making them a sought-after firm for residential renovations in the region.

SpotLab Brings Fun and Whimsy to Northern Michigan Home Remodeling

In the serene landscapes of Northern Michigan, a new wave of home remodeling is taking shape, thanks to the creative minds behind SpotLab. This design/build firm, helmed by the innovative duo of Tessa French and Zeb Burge, specializes in transforming unique spaces into whimsical, yet functional areas that delight the senses.

A Journey from Retail to Renovation

The story of SpotLab is one of passion and reinvention. Tessa and Zeb, seasoned professionals in the world of retail and hospitality, honed their skills while working on high-profile projects for Equinox Fitness in New York City. Burge served as the vice president of construction, while French held the title of director of design. After relocating to Michigan during the pandemic, they initially sought refuge at French’s family getaway in Gaylord, where their journey took a creative turn.

After spending time in the great outdoors, they decided to dive into home renovation by searching for a fixer-upper. Their search led them to an A-frame house, which they decided to renovate themselves due to a lack of outside help. The couple embarked on a six-month transformation journey, showcasing their dedication, creativity, and resourcefulness. The success of this project inspired them to establish SpotLab, where they could assist clients in creating their dream spaces.

Whimsical Designs that Make a Statement

SpotLab is synonymous with a distinct style characterized by bold colors, curves, and a playful mix of materials. Their designs resonate with clients who yearn for something beyond the ordinary, transforming conventional concepts into extraordinary realities. Their flair for creating vibrant, imaginative spaces has quickly made them a go-to firm for home and renovation projects in the area.

Turning Dreams into Reality

geodesic dome for her Lost Woods campground in Boyne Falls. This unique structure needed specialized attention, particularly when it came to integrating essential amenities like a bathroom and kitchenette into its round interior, which is devoid of traditional walls. SpotLab ingeniously attached the kitchenette to the exterior wall of the enclosed bathroom, allowing the dome’s open space to shine while ensuring functionality.

A Cabin with Character

SpotLab’s creative ventures didn’t stop at the dome. They were also engaged for a log cabin kit project at Six Mile Lake, marking their first foray into log home construction. This endeavor reflects the firm’s commitment to working on local projects throughout Michigan, including areas like Charlevoix and the Boyne region.

Unique Experiences Year-Round

The dome at Lost Woods is not just a shelter; it’s a carefully curated rental experience aimed at providing guests with a spacious feel despite measuring only 400 square feet. The dome features a surprisingly generous 55-square-foot bathroom that is fully equipped, showcasing SpotLab’s commitment to both practicality and design ethos.

Overcoming Challenges with Creativity

Transforming the dome into a rental haven was not without its challenges. The client faced hurdles with local zoning approvals as this was the first dome in the area to include a bathroom. However, with their innovation and adaptability, SpotLab forged ahead, turning obstacles into opportunities to showcase their creative prowess.

Creating Spaces that Inspire

SpotLab’s commitment goes beyond mere functionality; they aim to create environments that are as playful as they are practical. Their design philosophy centers around creativity and innovation, ensuring that every project tells a unique story. With each new endeavor, they continue to redefine what home remodeling can be, inviting us all to embrace the extraordinary.

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