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SpotLab Transforms Home Remodeling with Artistic Designs

Creative and colorful home remodeling project by SpotLab

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Forwal Construction

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We aim to be your one point of contact for all home improvement needs. Whether you’re dreaming of a kitchen remodel, a bathroom renovation, or a beautifully finished basement, we provide expert craftsmanship with a commitment to quality. Our belief is simple: trustworthy people find one another. If we’re not the right fit for your project, chances are we know the perfect professional to recommend.

Serving Novi, Northville, Plymouth, and Ann Arbor, MI, our mission is to help you enjoy your home to the fullest. Contact us today to explore how we can turn your ideas into reality!

News Summary

SpotLab, a design/build firm founded by Tessa French and Zeb Burge in Northern Michigan, is redefining home remodeling with whimsical, bold architecture. Formerly involved in retail and hospitality, the duo transitioned to home renovation during the pandemic, creating distinctive spaces that reflect personality and fun. Their projects include a futuristic geodesic dome at Lost Woods campground and a log cabin kit at Six Mile Lake, highlighting their innovative approach and commitment to local design. SpotLab aims to provide unique living experiences while overcoming zoning challenges to bring imaginative spaces to life.

SpotLab Makes Waves in Home Remodeling with Whimsical Designs

In the heart of Northern Michigan, a distinctive design/build firm known as SpotLab has been stirring excitement in the home remodeling scene. Founded by the creative duo, Tessa French and Zeb Burge, this innovative firm focuses on crafting spaces that are not just functional but also radiate a playful and whimsical vibe.

A Journey from Retail to Renovation

Tessa and Zeb are not your average builders. Before diving into the world of home renovation, this dynamic couple held pivotal roles in the retail and hospitality industries, working with Equinox Fitness in the bustling streets of New York City. Zeb served as the vice president of construction, while Tessa was the director of design. Their lives took a turn during the pandemic when they decided to escape the city chaos and make their way to Michigan. They initially found solace at Tessa’s family’s cozy getaway in Gaylord, but soon the itch for a creative project grew stronger.

Turning a Fixer-Upper into a Dream Home

What followed was a journey many can relate to—the search for a fixer-upper. Tessa and Zeb found themselves drawn to an A-frame house, a property that was brimming with potential. With limited help, the couple rolled up their sleeves and took on the six-month renovation project single-handedly. The result of their hard work not only transformed a neglected space into a stunning home, but also laid the foundation for SpotLab’s inception—big dreams in a quaint northern town.

Creative and Bold Designs

SpotLab isn’t just about building; it’s about infusing character into every project. Their signature style features bold colors, curves, and unexpected materials, creating unique and memorable environments. This approach is resonating with clients seeking distinctive designs that reflect their personalities and lifestyle. Their first sizable project came from a client named Lauren Blanford, who was looking to add a futuristic geodesic dome to her Lost Woods campground in Boyne Falls.

The Challenge of the Dome

The dome presented unique challenges, particularly regarding its layout. Given the round structure’s lack of interior walls, SpotLab had to get creative. The team designed a separate bathroom, along with a kitchenette, all while maintaining the dome’s open ambiance. The kitchenette was attached externally to the wall of the enclosed bathroom, preserving the dome’s airy feel, making it both functional and aesthetically unique.

From Domes to Cabins

Unique Experiences at Lost Woods Campground

The dome at Lost Woods isn’t just a construction marvel; it was designed to offer a distinctive rental experience all year long. Despite measuring just 400 square feet, the dome is surprisingly spacious and houses a fully equipped 55-square-foot bathroom that showcases SpotLab’s design ethos—making the most of every inch while ensuring practicality meets creativity.

Overcoming Zoning Hurdles

Not everything has been a walk in the park, though. Blanford faced hurdles with zoning approvals, making this the first dome in the area to include such amenities as a bathroom. The Lost Woods campground, featuring a century-old farmhouse, an event center in a barn, and a charming A-frame cabin, hopes to attract visitors seeking a slice of eclectic northern Michigan life.

Looking Ahead

As the renovation buzz continues to grow, Tessa and Zeb remain focused on their mission: to create spaces that are not only functional but also infused with fun and creativity. For anyone dreaming of a unique transformation or looking to remodel their home, SpotLab is paving the way with imagination and flair.