Silverock Thunderhouse

Project Details

Project Description

FROM THE AIA

Silverock Cove is a lakeside community of 125 homes located on Alabama’s scenic Lewis Smith Lake.  At Silverock Cove the residents share ownership and use of land and lake amenities, an approach borrowed from beachside community developments, but one that is unique to lakeside living.  The homes front a waterfront path that also leads to common-use docks and many on-land amenities, including the Thunderhouse.
 Anchoring the western half of the development, The Thunderhouse is a low-slung, pool-side structure that hugs the ground to preserve the 360 degree views from the surrounding homes.  The Thunderhouse acts as a multiple-purpose space for special occasions and serves the daily poolside needs of the residents.  Small, cozy fireside gatherings feel comfortable in the lounge space.  However, the steel window walls of the lounge open to allow larger gatherings to spill over onto the pool plaza.  The building also contains a small game room to provide shaded activities when the heat is too much.  Restrooms, a servery, and equipment rooms round out the other functions.
 The mountain-modern structure is wrapped with a rain screen of reclaimed barn wood planks, while a true envelope of translucent panels sits just behind.  Light from inside spills out between the barn wood planks, turning the Thunderhouse into a glowing shoreline beacon for boaters and residents alike.  
The interiors incorporate reclaimed siding and other honest materials that express the structure’s simplicity and timelessness.  The colors and details harmonize with the surrounding wooded setting, helping make Silverock Cove a soothing and inviting sanctuary for residents and guests alike.