Jobs in Progress - The Douglas House

The world class Douglas house has many unique features. It was constructed on the side of a very steep bluff over looking Lake Michigan in 1973. McBride Construction has completed many maintenance projects around the home and is currently undertaking the largest repair project in the history of this residence.

The residence is accessed by a 40’ bridge that spans from the drive way edge to the front door. This bridge is the primary point of access over any area that is approximately 30’ below. The bridge has deteriorated to the point where it is unsafe to use and needs to be replaced.

McBride Construction along with a structural engineering firm have designed a new bridge that will visually be identical to the original and will incorporate a new steel supper structure. The bridge is attached to the house with a hinge bracket so when the house moves the bridge will move also. On the land the bridge is set on a concrete foundation that incorporates steel plates so the bridge can move as needed. To have the bridge permanently attached at the house and on land would create structural damage to the house as it moves with the seasons and in windy conditions.

The photos below detail the removal of the bridge and the current reconstruction project.