Lake Keowee Family Retreat
Project Narrative
The Owners, repeat clients of the firm, engaged us to design a new summer retreat on Lake Keowee in Pickens, South Carolina.
The initial planning effort focused on a challenging parcel with a difficult lot shape and steep topography. These site constraints complicated the placement of the large residence and outdoor living areas while creating significant access issues to the water’s edge, requiring an excessive number of steps. Although a workable concept was developed, the extensive grading and foundation work drove construction costs to an unfeasible level.
Several months later, the Owners acquired a smaller, more buildable parcel on the lake that included an existing, outdated cottage. The current design reuses a portion of the original structure while introducing a new two-story residence with a functional, walk-out basement that opens directly onto outdoor terraces.
The site design features a series of carefully terraced outdoor living spaces, including an outdoor kitchen, fireplace, and generous entertaining areas that step down toward the lake. Convenient access is provided to the boathouse, water’s edge, and lower terrace levels.
This project is currently in the planning and design phase, with construction anticipated to begin in Spring 2027.
In Their Words
"For more than 20 years, my wife and I have trusted Roy Dufreche and his team with all of our landscape architecture needs. Whether tackling a commercial development or a residential project, Roy has been with us from the very first concept through to the final execution. His unwavering dedication, passion for his craft, and genuine commitment to his clients are truly unmatched. Working with him makes the entire process smooth, collaborative, and genuinely enjoyable.
What truly sets Roy apart is his remarkable attention to detail. From the hardscape elements to the softscape design — including precise tree placement, thoughtful lighting plans, and the overall spatial flow — every aspect is thoughtfully considered and beautifully integrated. He often says, “It’s all about the details,” and that philosophy is evident in every project he touches. The result is outdoor spaces that are not only highly functional but exceptionally beautiful and perfectly aligned with our vision.
I wholeheartedly recommend Roy Dufreche’s services to anyone seeking landscape architecture expertise. In my experience, he should be the first call you make before hiring any draftsman or architect. His knowledge, professionalism, and commitment have been invaluable to us for two decades, and we would not hesitate to partner with him again on future projects."
Transform the Ordinary
