All about the View

Randy and Pat Morris’ Lake of the Ozarks home in the private Cedar Crest community doesn’t resemble the log cabin-style abode they originally set out to find for a second home.
 
In 2005, while visiting family at the Lake to escape a hurricane heading for their full-time Naples, Fla., residence, the couple thought they would look to see what was available. Quickly discovering a lack of area homes that fit their rustic vision, they broadened their horizons. Ironically, their decision to buy the home they ultimately chose was made at first sight — but not because of the house itself. “When we walked in and saw the view, we were sold,” Pat says.

One step through the front door of the five-suite home and the view takes over. A wide expanse of windows beneath 13-foot ceilings opens to an unobstructed, panoramic view of the Lake of the Ozarks’ main channel.

“We saw just a handful of homes, but after this, we didn’t look anywhere else,” Randy adds. Prater-Backsen Construction built the 6,800-square-foot home in 2000.

The couple credits Lynn Farrell of Farrell Real Estate for zeroing in on what they desired after they moved away from the woodsy cabin idea. Three months out of the year, the Morrises return to the Lake to enjoy their bluff-top setting, the incredible view of the water (and unbelievable sunsets) and the atmosphere the area offers.

Real estate developers and homebuilders by occupation, the couple says their Lake home differs in style from their Florida home. Randy appreciates the concrete tile roof and stone facade on their lake home, as well as the marble and cherry hardwood flooring and custom-built maple cabinetry throughout. Marble tile on the main level delineates an unencumbered foyer that opens into the great room and also gives access, respectively, to the formal dining room on one side and a stairway leading to the lower level on the other. The spacious master suite on the first floor offers wonderful lake views and a gracious and elegant private escape.

Throughout the main level, calm colors create a soothing atmosphere. In the dining room, cream and gray tones set the scene; a large floral arrangement on the center of a wide round table, surrounded by seating for seven, creates a focal point.

Sculptures and paintings found throughout the home reflect Pat’s interest and skill as an artist. On the wall overlooking the dining room table, a large abstract painting by Denver artist Bob Maes, discovered by the Morrises at Columbia, Mo.’s Perlow-Stevens Gallery, stands out with brown tones and an understated grouping of geometric shapes. The painting gives off a mix of modern, minimalist and natural vibes — characteristic of Pat’s interior design seen throughout the home.

Casual elegance is the theme in the great room, where Pat’s love of the classic Ralph Lauren look and simple, clean lines create a comfortable yet stylish ambience. An oversized sideboard anchors the room with an inviting sitting area arranged around the fireplace. Gray marble and graceful white arches surround the unique fireplace, and a 6-foot mirror hangs above to add to the room’s expansive, grand  feeling. At the far corners of the great room, a  comfortable reading area and a Kawai baby grand piano provide entertaining options. Another painting, displaying a mathematical-inspired design with its contrast between precise but varying sized rectangles and more random use of color and texture, hangs above the sideboard.

Adjacent to the dining room and great room, the kitchen and hearth room give a welcoming, casual space for social interaction. In the kitchen, a recessed arch in the wall frames Randy’s favorite piece of artwork, one of Pat’s acrylic paintings — a piece of abstract realism, with soft edges and broad strokes of brown, rust and gentle yellow, that captures a mother leaning toward her child.

One of three fireplaces warms the hearth room, a space that leads to one of the most used areas: the screened-in deck. The protected outdoor living area opens the home to the outside through a series of tall, screened arches and overlooks a soaring view of the Ozark treetops and main channel.

Pat says the lower level is “like another house downstairs.” A wet bar, billiards table, pub-style game table and comfortable sitting area punctuate the more casual family atmosphere. The main guest suite on the lower level offers easy access to the swimming pool and deck. Pat and Randy have claimed two of the lower suites for their hobbies — a music studio for the ex-rock-’n-roll drummer and guitarist and an art studio for Pat.
   
The couple also enjoys golfing and dining out. But the natural  beauty, wildlife (they regularly see turkey in the driveway or even deer nibbling Pat’s flowers), the season-changing landscape and the friendly people are the true draws to the area for them.

“It’s a little like going back in time. There are more family values here,” Randy says. “The Lake of the Ozarks can’t be beat. It’s the very best value for what you get.”