Coastal Cliff House

Perched on a cliff with sweeping water views, this lakefront guest house is an architectural feat and a deeply personal tribute. Originally conceived by Cottage Company founder Rob Mossburg and his wife Vee, the house was built on a site once deemed “unbuildable” due to the precipitous incline from the lakefront. With steel reinforcements they created a peaceful retreat that would serve as a guest house for the client’s late father, a lifelong “Parrothead” and the heart of their family.

Though their main house sits nearby, the family poured even more love and resources into this compact but thoughtfully designed home, where every room offers a private water view. From the staircase lyrics etched with favorite Jimmy Buffett songs (they attended over 40 concerts with their father) to original artwork that tells the story of their dad’s life, this home is a celebration of him, the music he loved, and the family legacy that lives on.

Accessibility was key: an enclosed private lift carries guests from the road to the cliffside home and down to the beach, designed with older family members and mobility in mind. This home was made for everyone to enjoy, today and for generations to come.

Despite its smaller footprint, no detail was spared. This is a guest house that lives large, with cozy gathering spaces, thoughtful finishes, and layered textures that reflect the surrounding landscape. It’s a place to slow down, connect, and remember — where every corner holds a story, and every sunset feels like a quiet moment shared.