Spotted: Two Country-Living Homes in Bucks County

This article showcases six rustic homes located across various towns in Wyoming, each offering unique features and settings. The first property, situated in Jackson, is a two-bedroom cabin spanning three acres with views of the Tetons. It features full-log construction, wood floors, exposed beams, a kitchen equipped with a Lacanche oven and range, a primary suite with a stone fireplace, and a wraparound porch. Outdoor amenities include a deck with a hot tub, mature landscaping, a grassy yard with a firepit, and a teepee for glamping. The second home, found in Moran, is a two-bedroom log house built in 1977, offering proximity to forest trails and Grand Teton National Park. Its main living space boasts oak floors, a vaulted ceiling, large windows, and a central river-rock fireplace. A back deck provides views of the surrounding woods, and the nearly one-acre wooded property includes a shed, a concrete slab for a garage, and a fenced area suitable for horses. In Alpine, a rustic modern home built in 2020 features two bedrooms and is within walking distance of Caribou National Forest. This residence includes a mudroom entry, high wood-clad ceilings, wide-plank wood floors, clerestory windows, and a woodstove. The kitchen is outfitted with stainless appliances, an eat-in island, and a dining nook with picture windows. A raised front deck overlooks mountain and forest views from the half-acre property. The fourth property is a Victorian home in Cody, dating back to 1918, which previously operated as a bed-and-breakfast. The renovated five-bedroom house retains period details, wood trim, and floors, alongside fresh cedar shingles and porch railings. It includes a commercial kitchen on the first floor, a finished attic, two laundry areas, and a basement studio apartment. A curved porch overlooks the lawn and mature trees, and a large fenced backyard contains a firepit and a guest cottage. Bondurant hosts a five-bedroom contemporary farmhouse, a 1970 home updated and located near the Bridger-Teton National Forest. This property, a 35-minute drive from Jackson Hole, features a main living area with oak floors, whitewashed wood beams, vaulted ceilings, and a stone-fronted fireplace. The chef's kitchen is equipped with a Wolf stove, a herringbone-tile backsplash, and an eat-in island. The 3.83-acre property also offers a workshop, garage, patio, lawns, and a pond with a sandy beach. Finally, an updated 1949 cottage in Afton, a four-bedroom home, is conveniently located near the town's amenities. It features wood floors, an open kitchen with a dining area, a living room with a dog nook, a primary suite with a walk-in closet, and a finished basement with a laundry room/workout space, bath, and storage. The fenced backyard includes a patio, firepit, kennel, and a lawn. #RusticHomes #WyomingRealEstate #CabinLife #LogHomes #VictorianHomes #FarmhouseStyle #CottageCore #LuxuryProperties #MountainLiving

The UK housing market has shown improved prospects and increased activity, particularly in consumer confidence and some local markets. London remains a key attraction, but country-house prices have stabilized, and certain areas, especially commuter zones, are experiencing expansion. Research by Savills indicates that locations like Cambridge, Oxford, Winchester, and Bishop's Stortford have surpassed their market peak values, with sought-after regions such as the Cotswolds showing slight price increases. This robust market outlook is expected to draw more buyers out of London, benefiting from a significant value gap between the capital and other regions. To illustrate the diverse property landscape across Britain, the article showcases what £2 million can purchase in various locations. In Gloucestershire, for £1.95 million, Glebe Farm in Saintbury offers a 5,856 sq ft Cotswolds stone farmhouse with four bedrooms, a cottage, and 15 acres. It features a Juliet balcony, vaulted ceiling, stone fireplace, and a heated swimming pool, all within views of the Malvern Hills. Devon presents Rockbeare Manor for £2 million, a Grade I-listed 18th-century house spanning 16,335 sq ft with 13 bedrooms, staff accommodation, and 57 acres. This property boasts a dramatic dog-leg staircase and views across its parkland to the hills near Exeter. In Oxfordshire, The Old Wharf in Shillingford is available for £1.95 million. This Grade II-listed property, measuring 4,829 sq ft, includes six bedrooms, river frontage, and 2.7 acres. Its interiors highlight the setting, with a vaulted master bedroom overlooking the gardens and river, and a self-contained annexe. Hampshire features Ciddy Hall in Liss for £1.925 million. This medieval hall house, covering 6,150 sq ft, has seven bedrooms, cottages, and 3.7 acres of grounds. It retains period charm with exposed timbers, flagstone floors, open fireplaces, and hand-carved panelling. Powys offers Llanerchydol Hall in Welshpool for £1.95 million. This Grade II*-listed hall, originally from 1776 and rebuilt in the Gothic Revival style in 1820, spans 13,974 sq ft with 13 bedrooms and an apartment within 73 acres. The property, featuring romantic turrets and castellations, includes a Japanese water garden and parterre designed by John Repton. The house is divided into East and West Wings, and the grounds comprise parkland. Aberdeenshire's Cairness House in Lonmay, priced at £2 million, is a perfect A-listed Georgian masterpiece covering 32,626 sq ft with seven bedrooms, a flat, an 18th-century ice house, and 16 acres. Guarded by sphinxes, it features elegant reception rooms with Classical references, an Egyptian room, an Etruscan library, and bedrooms with period details and en-suite bathrooms. In contrast, London's Hornton Street, Kensington, offers a maisonette for £2 million. This 1,548 sq ft property, occupying a Grade II-listed building, includes three bedrooms, a study, and access to communal gardens, situated near Kensington High Street. Lastly, Suffolk presents Babergh Hall in Great Waldingfield for £2 million. This Grade II*-listed hall, built around the turn of the 18th and 19th centuries, spans 7,169 sq ft with seven bedrooms and secondary accommodation within 26.7 acres. It features Classical elegance with full-height sash windows and fine fireplaces. The grounds include gardens, paddocks, woodland, a pool, stable block, and a manège. #UKHousingMarket #LuxuryRealEstate #CountryHouses #PropertyComparison #RegionalProperty #HistoricHomes #Savills #KnightFrank

Emily and Jason Porche embarked on a significant home renovation project to transform a 1972 split-level ranch in Marietta into their envisioned 'forever home' with a modern farmhouse aesthetic. This extensive renovation, which began immediately after purchasing the property in 2017, involved adding an extra story, a garage, and opening up the interior spaces to create a more functional and cohesive living environment for their family of four. The architectural design for the project was handled by David Doran of Classical Concepts, while Jason's father, Clark Porche, owner of Monogram Homes, oversaw the construction. The family's objective was to create a comfortable space conducive to making lasting memories. The finished home spans 4,500 square feet, featuring five bedrooms and six bathrooms, blending the original split-level structure with contemporary farmhouse elements. Key renovations included constructing a new garage with a bedroom above it, connected to the main house by a breezeway with wooden swings, which quickly became a favorite spot. The Porches also covered a raised patio next to the pool, incorporating skylights to maximize natural light, making the outdoor space more enjoyable year-round. Inside, the main floor was reconfigured to create an open-concept layout, connecting the kitchen to the living areas and providing unobstructed views of the pool and the adjacent Indian Hills Country Club golf course. The kitchen, a central gathering point, features a 13-foot island, white cabinetry, stainless steel appliances from Frigidaire Gallery Pro, and VIGO faucets. Lighting fixtures, such as pendants from Shades of Light and a Pottery Barn chandelier in the dining room, were chosen to enhance the modern farmhouse style. Emily Porche, a marketing professional who also blogs about interior design on theporcheplace.com, played a significant role in the interior design, maintaining a neutral palette with shades of white and cream, accented by brown tones in elements like the mantel, exposed beams, and leather armchairs. The girls' rooms are designed with a soft glow from Crystorama wall sconces from Build.com, and their shared bathrooms feature vanities and floor tile from Lowe's, mirrors from HomeGoods, and a PBteen chandelier. Practical upgrades included an expanded laundry room with Samsung appliances, a copper sink from Sinkology, and a Pottery Barn drying rack. The master bedroom features a tufted bed from Ballard Designs and a rug from Pottery Barn, further emphasizing the modern farmhouse aesthetic. Additional family-friendly spaces include a basement sunroom, which was adjusted to accommodate a flat-screen television and furnished with items from Pottery Barn and Ballard Designs. Jason Porche also custom-built a kegerator for the basement bar. The renovation extended to a creative play area for their daughters, transforming a Costco playhouse into a 'Porche City Market.' Throughout the project, the Porches prioritized creating a home that not only reflected their style but also served as a backdrop for their family life. #HomeRenovation #FarmhouseStyle #SplitLevelTransformation #InteriorDesign #CobbCountyHomes #MariettaRealEstate #FamilyHome #ModernFarmhouse #ArchitecturalDesign

The Shingle style home, a unique American architectural development, emerged in the 1870s as a blend of Colonial American influences and European architectural styles, particularly from Normandy. This architectural style intentionally moved away from the ornate finishes of grand mansions of the 19th century, embracing a more informal aesthetic. Key characteristics include rambling, asymmetric structures with minimal exterior ornamentation, aside from their distinctive wood-shingle cladding. These homes often featured open floorplans centered around a central hall, and interiors could range from intricate wood paneling in public rooms to simpler beadboard and other finishes. The Shingle style became a popular choice for summer houses among the Northeastern elite, valued for its comfortable and less formal personality. Though many iconic examples, such as McKim, Mead & White’s Low House, have been demolished, some remain on the market, offering a glimpse into this historical period. Three examples of Shingle style homes currently for sale in New England illustrate the diversity within this architectural movement. The first, "The Boulders" in Jamestown, Rhode Island, built in 1888, exemplifies the eclectic and rambling nature of the style. Its exterior features a playful arrangement of gables, porches, and turrets, embodying the casual feeling the style aimed for. The interior maintains this informality with thoughtfully designed but roughly carved paneling in the main hall and simple, irregular finishes in the bedrooms, with fireplaces being a notable exception for their intricate ornamentation. This home encapsulates the comfortable, cobbled-together aesthetic popular at the end of the 19th century. A second example, an 1890 home in Edgartown, Massachusetts, demonstrates how the Shingle style was adapted for smaller-scale residences. This house features an open floorplan where the foyer seamlessly flows into the living room, leading to a dining room, all opening onto a back porch with ocean views. The design prioritizes air circulation and connection to the outdoors. Unlike larger Shingle style homes, its woodwork is kept simple, utilizing beadboard, diamond-paned windows, and modest door surrounds. At 3,700 square feet, this residence was conceived as an informal retreat, despite its current high valuation. The third property, located in Dublin, New Hampshire, illustrates that not all Shingle style homes were coastal. This estate showcases a purposeful asymmetry in its exterior, with elements like dormers, gables, and porches, and a main gable subtly shifted to the left. A notable aspect of this home is the visible influence of the Colonial Revival style, which was also popular in the late 19th century. The central hall, typical of Shingle style, is adorned with finely carved woodwork reminiscent of Colonial architecture, particularly around the fireplace, where the carvings are light and graceful, contrasting with the heavier paneling seen in the Jamestown house. These three homes collectively highlight the defining characteristics, regional adaptations, and evolutionary influences within the Shingle style architecture. #ShingleStyle #NewEnglandHomes #HistoricHomes #Architecture #RealEstate #RhodeIsland #Massachusetts #NewHampshire

This article highlights an exclusive opportunity to purchase an undeveloped home lot in Frisco’s Starwood master-planned community, complete with pre-designed architectural plans from Bella Custom Homes. The offering aims to streamline the custom home building process for a luxury Santa Barbara transitional style home, priced at $4.895 million. Bella Custom Homes, a recognized builder in the Dallas-Fort Worth area since 1993, is known for its transparent, fixed-cost pricing model. This approach provides clients with a detailed, upfront cost before construction begins, ensuring no hidden fees, while still allowing for significant customization and personalization of the new residence. The featured property is located at 5309 Buena Vista Drive, a 0.81-acre lot within the guard-gated Starwood community. This community is distinguished by its wooded creeks, mature oak trees, and scenic hilltop views, and falls within the highly-rated Frisco Independent School District. The specific lot offers unique advantages, including backing onto a tree-lined community greenspace, eliminating direct rear neighbors, and providing distant views of The Star and Lake Lewisville from the second floor. The proposed home, spanning 8,284 square feet, features six bedrooms, six bathrooms, and two half-baths. The architectural style, Santa Barbara transitional, blends the soft curves of Italianate Renaissance with the practical elements of Spanish Revival. The exterior will showcase a Mediterranean facade with stucco, cast stone details, quatrefoil insets, and a Spanish tile roof. A signature element by Bella Custom Homes' founder Tony Visconti, grass latticework, will highlight arched windows and a double iron-and-glass front door. Inside, the 5,163-square-foot first floor is designed to include an owner’s suite, a private guest suite, formal living areas, a family room, and a well-appointed kitchen equipped with high-end Sub-Zero and Wolf appliances. Additional luxury amenities on this level include a wine room, exercise room, mudroom with built-ins, and a safe room within the owner’s suite closet. A spacious 20x39-foot outdoor living area with a pool view and grilling station, along with a four-car garage, complements the ground floor. The second floor, covering 3,121 square feet, houses a media room, four additional bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms, and a game room featuring a kitchenette that opens to an expansive private balcony. According to Stacy Brotemarkle, vice president and co-owner of Bella Custom Homes, the floorplans and specifications are finalized and ready for permitting. This pre-designed and pre-approved status significantly shortens the typical custom build timeline, bypassing months of design and Homeowners Association approval processes. This makes it an ideal option for families seeking a luxury custom home without the prolonged initial stages. The Starwood community itself offers a range of amenities, including walking trails, a community center, a fitness center with an indoor sports court, a playground, swimming pools, and tennis courts. It is conveniently located near major Frisco attractions such as The Star, Dr. Pepper Ballpark, Toyota Stadium, and prominent shopping and entertainment districts like Stonebriar Centre, the Shops at Legacy, Legacy West, the new PGA Headquarters, and the recently announced Universal Studios Frisco. Bella Custom Homes is also one of the approved builders for The Preserve, a new luxury gated community within the expansive Fields development in Frisco, further solidifying their presence in the region's high-end real estate market. #FriscoRealEstate #CustomHomes #BellaCustomHomes #LuxuryLiving #StarwoodCommunity #SantaBarbaraTransitional #FriscoISD #DallasFortWorthRealEstate #HomeBuilding

This article details the architectural design and features of the SHED/HOUSE, a 1300 sq ft residence completed in 2023 by Side Angle Side in Llano, United States. The house is strategically positioned on a central Texas hill to provide expansive southern views of the Texas Hill Country. Its design intentionally incorporates a blank facade that evokes the appearance of a traditional shed when approached from the public road, allowing it to blend seamlessly into the agricultural landscape. This camouflaged exterior is a key element of the architectural concept, creating a sense of integration with the rural surroundings. The interior layout of the SHED/HOUSE is structured around a linear plan comprising six distinct rectangular spaces. This progressive arrangement guides occupants from more public areas to increasingly private ones. The design prioritizes a strong connection between the indoor and outdoor environments, with every interior space offering a view or direct access to the exterior. A notable feature is the breezeway, which serves as a transition point. Upon passing the initial shed-like facade, visitors are led through this breezeway, which cleverly reorients the view back towards the captivating Texas Hill Country, setting the stage for the sequential experience of the interior. The project was curated by Hana Abdel, with architectural design by John Redington. J&M Remodeling served as the contractors, and Duffy Engineering provided structural engineering expertise. Photography was handled by Casey Dunn, capturing the essence of the design and its integration with the landscape. Key manufacturers involved in the project include Fisher & Paykel, DWR, Gerkin, Kohler, Material Bank, RBW, and The Shade Store, indicating a selection of quality materials and fittings. The use of wood and steel are significant material choices in the SHED/HOUSE, contributing to both its aesthetic and structural integrity. These materials align with the vernacular inspiration of the shed and contribute to a contemporary yet rooted architectural expression. The emphasis on views, the integration with the landscape, and the thoughtful progression of spaces define the core principles behind the SHED/HOUSE project, making it a notable example of residential architecture in the Texas Hill Country. #ResidentialArchitecture #Houses #TexasHillCountry #ModernDesign #WoodConstruction #SteelStructure #LlanoTexas #SideAngleSide #ArchitecturalPhotography

This article explores three distinct properties across Michigan, Florida, and New York, each valued at approximately $2 million, offering a glimpse into diverse architectural styles, historical contexts, and lifestyle opportunities. Each property presents unique features, from expansive single-family homes to multi-unit Art Deco buildings and multi-structure compounds. The first property is a custom-built 1979 house in Ann Arbor, Michigan, listed at $1.99 million. Designed by local architect Don Paul Young, this five-bedroom, six-and-a-half-bathroom residence spans 5,249 square feet on a 0.77-acre lot within the wooded Hillwood Preserve. Situated near the University of Michigan’s Nichols Arboretum, the home offers winter views of the Huron River and convenient access to the university campus and downtown. Recent renovations include new exterior siding, updated windows, and fresh oak flooring in key living areas. The interior features a grand foyer, a dining room with a 16-foot glass wall, a living room with a wood-burning fireplace, and three separate studies. The kitchen is equipped with a granite-topped L-shaped island, a Wolf range, and a Sub-Zero refrigerator, opening to a screened porch and ipe-wood patio. A dedicated guest wing includes a bedroom, bathroom, and office, with elevator access to all floors. The second level houses the master suite with a walk-in closet and private balcony, three additional bedroom suites, and a library connected to an indoor-outdoor exercise room. The finished lower level adds over 2,400 square feet, comprising a family room, office with a fireplace, full bathroom, and workshops, plus access to a three-car garage. Outdoor amenities include a large paved patio with a fire pit, surrounded by mature trees. The second property is a four-unit Art Deco apartment building in Miami Beach, Florida, available for $1.995 million. This 1936 complex, located in the Bayshore neighborhood, is two blocks west of Indian Creek and a short distance from Mid-Beach hotels and cultural attractions. The building totals 4,478 square feet and consists of four identical units, each approximately 1,200 square feet, with two bedrooms and two bathrooms. The units are sold furnished, and three are currently rented, with leases up to six months and rents ranging from $2,900 to $3,200 monthly. Each unit features a living room with wood floors and a decorative fireplace, a wood-floored dining room, and a kitchen with varying surfaces and appliances. Bedrooms include wrap-around windows and en suite bathrooms. The complex offers a shared garden with a seating area and grill, and street parking permits are available for residents. The third property is a unique compound in Shawangunk, New York, priced at $2.025 million. This 24.7-acre estate features an 1835 farmhouse and a recently built 2019 custom log house, collectively offering eight bedrooms and seven and a half bathrooms across 5,400 square feet. Located about 75 miles north of Manhattan, the property serves as the country retreat for an interior designer and her husband, designed for entertaining. The yellow clapboard-sided farmhouse, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, boasts a traditional double parlor with antique floorboards, wallpaper in modern Victorian patterns, and a kitchen with stainless steel and concrete countertops. The original kitchen downstairs has been converted into a “speakeasy” space. Upstairs, the master bedroom features hand-glued scalloped paper on a slanted wall, and the bathroom combines raw brick, patterned wallpaper, and concrete vanity. The log house, constructed from reclaimed barn wood, showcases eclectic design with botanical and animal-themed wallpapers, contrasting with the dominant wood-and-mortar aesthetic. Each upstairs bedroom in the log house has a private bathroom, and there's a main-floor master suite with a distinctive bathroom. Outdoor features include a hot tub, bandstand, fire pit, seating areas, and a paddock for animals. #RealEstate #LuxuryHomes #HomeDesign #MichiganRealEstate #FloridaRealEstate #NewYorkRealEstate #ArtDeco #HistoricHomes #LogCabin

The concept of a spacious tiny house might appear paradoxical, given the prevalent trend in tiny home design towards extreme minimalism and compact living spaces. However, many individuals and families require more expansive living areas while still desiring the advantages of tiny living, such as reduced costs and a smaller environmental footprint. The Ohana tiny home, designed by Viva Collectiv, represents an innovative solution that seeks to harmonize the need for increased space with the core principles of small-scale living. This unique dwelling was specifically created for a family with children and consists of two distinct tiny houses, each measuring 24 feet in length and 8 feet in width. These two structures are interconnected by a central, glass-roofed porch, effectively creating a larger, integrated living environment. The layout of the Ohana home is thoughtfully divided to accommodate various functions. One of the tiny house wings is dedicated to essential living spaces, housing the kitchen, a full bathroom, and the master bedroom. This arrangement ensures that the primary occupants have a private and functional area for their daily needs. The second tiny house wing is designed with the children in mind, featuring a comfortable living room area and a lofted bedroom, providing them with their own dedicated space for relaxation and sleep. The central connecting element, the glass-roofed porch, serves as an open-air common area. While this design choice allows for an abundance of natural light and a connection to the outdoors, it presents certain practical considerations. The porch is neither screened-in nor fully integrated with the insulated living spaces of the two tiny houses, which could lead to challenges during different seasons. Specifically, it might be susceptible to insect intrusion during warmer months and could experience significantly colder temperatures in the winter, potentially limiting its usability year-round. From an aesthetic perspective, the Ohana tiny home exhibits a somewhat eclectic style. The central structure, characterized by its steel-and-glass construction, offers a contemporary and industrial feel. This contrasts with the painted timber siding of the two tiny house modules, which evokes a more traditional or rustic charm. This juxtaposition of materials and styles results in an aesthetic that could be described as a "mishmash," where the different elements do not entirely coalesce into a singular, cohesive look. Despite these potential aesthetic and practical challenges related to the open-air porch, the fundamental concept of the Ohana home holds significant promise. By creatively combining two separate tiny houses with a shared central space, the design efficiently utilizes approximately 400 square feet of interior space. This approach demonstrates a viable pathway for families or individuals who find conventional tiny homes too restrictive but are still committed to the benefits and lifestyle associated with smaller, more sustainable living. The design offers a flexible and adaptable model for expanding the utility and comfort of tiny living, proving that "spacious tiny house" doesn't have to be an oxymoron. #TinyHomes #FamilyHomes #InnovativeDesign #ModularLiving #SustainableLiving #HomeArchitecture #VivaCollectiv #OpenAirSunroom #SmallFootprint

This article highlights a 150-acre estate located at 313 Taylor Road, Peacham, VT, described as a rustic-chic farmhouse and family compound. The property offers an expansive living space of 5,500 square feet, featuring eight bedrooms and nine bathrooms. A central theme of the interior design is the artful use of worn wood, incorporating salvaged barn board walls, reclaimed pine flooring, and exposed hand-hewn timbers along the cathedral ceilings. This design choice contributes to a treehouse-esque ambiance, particularly appealing to younger residents for activities such as homeschooling. One of the estate's most notable features is its indoor pool, situated within a 40-by-60-foot solarium. This pool area is designed to resemble a waterpark, complete with faux and real rock and tree accents, waterfalls, and underwater lighting, offering both recreational and fitness opportunities. Beyond the main residence, the 150-acre grounds provide extensive outdoor amenities, including multiple porches, five ponds, miles of carriage roads, and natural trails. For equestrian enthusiasts, the property boasts paddocks and barn space capable of accommodating up to 20 horses, along with an indoor riding arena. In addition to the primary farmhouse, the estate includes three guest houses, one of which is a modernist cabin uniquely positioned above Ewell Pond. While the overall aesthetic leans towards rustic, the property also incorporates refined elements, such as mahogany entryways, cedar walk-in closets, French doors, and marble countertops. The interiors are further enhanced by hand-painted ceramic tiles in bathrooms and kitchens, contributing a Spanish farmhouse appeal, and a mix of modern glass globe light fixtures alongside antique pendant lights. The main house offers several inviting spaces for relaxation and gathering, including a double-sided fireplace, a completely skylit dining room, and a cozy reading nook. The generous expanse of the property allows for extensive outdoor activities, whether on horseback or on foot, providing a sense of seclusion and ample room to explore without needing to leave the premises. The article provides contact information for Wade Weathers at LandVest for further inquiries about the property. #VermontRealEstate #FarmhouseStyle #LuxuryProperty #RusticChic #IndoorPool #EquestrianProperty #FamilyCompound #HomeDesign #EstateLiving

The article suggests that Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes, a Texas native who already owns a home in Vaquero, should consider upgrading his real estate portfolio. This recommendation follows his second Super Bowl win and his role in the public relationship between Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce, implying a need for a more private sanctuary. The proposed upgrade is a Lake Flato-designed Texas Hill Country Modern compound located at 2102 Cedar Elm Terrace. Vaquero, a community developed by Discovery Land Company in 2001 on 525 acres, was originally part of the Hunt brothers’ Circle T Ranch. It is known for its privacy and security, attracting celebrities and athletes. This particular property is highlighted for its ability to offer complete privacy while also providing a sense of community when desired. Roxann Taylor, an agent with Engles & Volkers, describes the home as secluded, with its main entrance surrounded by stone. The house is strategically positioned so that rooms face either the fourth fairway of the Tom Fazio-designed golf course, the lake, or a private inner courtyard. The layout ensures that privacy is maintained, with drone surveillance being the only way to view the courtyard from above. The Lake Flato architectural firm, based in San Antonio, is recognized for its pioneering work in Texas Hill Country Modern design and recently received the American Institute of Architects 2024 Gold Medal award for their sustainable building practices. The article emphasizes that this specific property exemplifies their best work, combining architectural impressiveness with livability. The 9,635-square-foot home features five bedrooms and six-and-a-half bathrooms. The current owners have made additions, including an expansion on the main floor and upstairs, adding three rooms and an elevator to the master suite, along with a spacious closet suitable for a large collection of items, such as sneakers. Lake Flato's design philosophy integrates indoor and outdoor spaces, creating "hybrid spaces" where the boundaries between the two are blurred. This is achieved through floor-to-ceiling windows that wrap around the main house and a separate two-bedroom, two-bathroom guest cottage. Even functional areas like the gym and game room offer scenic views. The property includes a garage with space for five vehicles, with one bay designed to accommodate car lifts, allowing for an expanded car collection. A bar at the end of one garage bay opens into the courtyard, facilitating entertainment. The location also offers convenience for families, as it is within walking distance of Westlake Academy, a K-12 school offering all three International Baccalaureate programs. The property is listed for $9.45 million. #VaqueroRealEstate #LuxuryHomes #TexasHillCountryModern #LakeFlatoArchitecture #PatrickMahomes #CelebrityHomes #PrivateCommunity #RealEstateUpgrade #ArchitecturalDesign

Perched upon a rocky hill overlooking a small farm in the Berkshires, a new residence designed by Kinneymorrow Architecture serves as the home for Emily and Jeremy, their two children, two dogs, several cats, chickens, and horses. The architectural design of this Massachusetts country home draws inspiration from vernacular houses, barns, and covered bridges characteristic of rural New England, while incorporating a modern aesthetic with its Cor-Ten steel cladding. The house is strategically positioned to offer panoramic views of the changing seasons in the surrounding countryside. A defining feature of the home is its west façade, where apertures in the Cor-Ten skin align with the interior programming. These openings frame specific views from the living, dining, and kitchen areas, and extend to include screened porches on either end of the structure. This design choice maximizes natural light and integrates the interior spaces with the exterior landscape, creating a sense of connection to nature throughout the day. The layout of the house is thoughtfully organized, with the bedrooms situated along the east side to capture the morning sun, contributing to a naturally lit and pleasant start to the day for the occupants. Above the main living floor, lofts are incorporated to provide flexible guest spaces, offering additional accommodation without compromising the home's primary living areas. The foundation of the house includes a cast concrete base, which houses a mudroom, an art studio, a mechanical room, and covered parking facilities. This lower level provides practical and functional spaces that support the family's diverse needs and activities, from creative pursuits to everyday utility. A notable aspect of the home's construction is the owner's personal involvement in sourcing materials. Jeremy, one of the owners, harvested most of the wood finishes used in the house from the forest located around the property. This commitment to using local and natural materials not only imbues the home with a unique character and connection to its site but also reflects a sustainable approach to building. The combination of modern Cor-Ten steel and rustic, locally sourced wood creates a harmonious balance between contemporary design and traditional country living. The design by Kinneymorrow Architecture successfully blends functional requirements with aesthetic appeal, creating a home that is both resilient and deeply integrated with its natural environment. The deliberate placement of window nooks throughout the residence allows every room to benefit from expansive views, ensuring that the beauty of the Berkshires landscape is an ever-present element of the family's daily life. This architectural approach emphasizes an indoor-outdoor living experience, providing comfort and visual engagement with the rural setting. #CountryHome #MassachusettsArchitecture #KinneymorrowArchitecture #CorTenSteel #ModernFarmhouse #WindowNooks #SustainableDesign #Berkshires #ArchitecturalDesign #LocalWood

Architect Keith Summerour and furniture designer Skylar Morgan collaborated to create a unique mountaintop guest house at Blackberry Farm in Tennessee. The primary design principle for this 1,600-square-foot retreat, which serves as a guest house and office for a future main residence, was to maintain unobstructed views of the Great Smoky Mountains. Perched on steel posts on Chilhowee Mountain, the structure offers panoramic vistas, a design decision guided by Summerour's drone assessments of the property. The project was a highly collaborative effort from its inception, initially involving Skylar Morgan for custom furniture pieces before the teams decided to jointly design the entire retreat. This extensive collaboration allowed for the seamless integration of custom ergonomic details, such as LED-lit handrails and integrated technology, throughout the space. The house features glass railings on the deck and sections of the catwalk with glass floors, which dramatically reveal a 60-foot drop, further enhancing the immersive natural experience. Skylar Morgan was responsible for the interior finishes, utilizing white oak for walls, floors, and ceilings, complemented by walnut furniture to introduce warm contrasts. Stephanie Morgan emphasized that the design was deeply inspired by the natural surroundings, incorporating natural materials into every element to create an effect likened to a “floating ship.” The custom furniture, including rocking chairs, a shelter bed, and a desk, was crafted using materials consistent with the architectural design, ensuring a cohesive aesthetic. Key features include a vaulted ceiling braced with blackened steel in the top-level living area, a custom oiled walnut desk by Skylar Morgan with integrated power and lighting, and a Prometheus II light fixture by Christopher Boots. The bedroom is minimalist, featuring a king-sized walnut bed with a leather-wrapped shelter headboard, built-in side tables, and brass reading lamps. The downstairs bathroom incorporates avalanche quartzite and brass fixtures, adding organic movement and warmth. The success of the project is attributed to the synergistic collaboration between the architect, furniture designer, interior designer, and furniture craftsman. Summerour highlighted that the client's willingness to allow each professional to exercise their expertise led to a beautifully integrated design. The retreat exemplifies how a unified approach among various design disciplines can result in a harmonious and aesthetically pleasing outcome, while meticulously preserving and highlighting the natural beauty of its dramatic location. #VacationHomes #GreatSmokyMountains #BlackberryFarm #Tennessee #SkylarMorgan #SecondHomes #Mountains #KeithSummerour #HomeDesign #ArchitecturalDesign

The article details the construction and design of a 13,000-square-foot home in Landenburg, Pennsylvania, approximately 20 minutes from Wilmington. The project successfully merged two distinct aesthetic preferences of the homeowners: the husband desired a traditional Pennsylvania farmhouse exterior, while the wife favored a French country interior. This blending of styles was achieved through the collaborative efforts of Period Architecture, led by Jessica Fogle, Dewson Construction with COO John McMahon, and deVignier Design, with interiors by Renée deVignier Biery. The exterior of the home features a stately yet welcoming façade created using a blend of four different stones, carefully selected to achieve significant texture and depth. This is complemented by a Vermont slate roof, traditional dormer windows, and copper roofing accents, embodying the classic Chester County farmhouse style. The design team meticulously worked through multiple stone samples to find the perfect mix, ensuring the exterior remained true to the husband's vision. Inside, the French country influence is evident in various spaces. The dining room, described as a "jewel box," features a nature-themed mural wallcovering that dictated the room's color palette, including green leather dining chairs. The reclaimed oak flooring, laid in a chevron pattern, further enhances the French country aesthetic. This room was designed for entertaining large gatherings, with an extendable table to accommodate extended family and friends. The open kitchen also successfully combines both styles, featuring a stone fireplace and a casual dining area. Another significant design element is the dramatic elliptical staircase connecting the first and second floors. This custom-made banister was specifically designed to be adorned with holiday decorations, reflecting the homeowners' Christmas decorating plans, which even included mapping out three different Christmas trees in the floor plan. The banister's finish, achieved with multiple coats of shellac and a final coat of beeswax, contributes to the French country feel. The home also features a formal sitting room with ornate moldings, built-in features, and reclaimed oak flooring in a chevron pattern. The great room includes a ceiling-high stone fireplace flanked by decorative quarter-circle clerestory windows and built-ins. A unique first-floor transitional space, initially a design challenge, was transformed into a conversation piece with a gilded, oval ceiling depicting zodiac signs, reminiscent of Grand Central Terminal, offering a playful departure from the primary design themes. This custom home exemplifies a harmonious integration of diverse architectural and interior design visions. #PennsylvaniaFarmhouse #FrenchChateauStyle #CustomHomeDesign #ArchitecturalBlending #InteriorDesign #LuxuryHomes #ChesterCounty #HomeDecor #ResidentialArchitecture

Two adjacent 19th-century carriage houses, located at 409 and 411 Vanderbilt Avenue in Clinton Hill, Brooklyn, have undergone extensive renovations by The Brooklyn Home Company and are now available for sale. These properties offer a unique opportunity to own a piece of historic architecture with modern amenities. The houses, originally built to accommodate coachmen and horses for a Clinton Avenue estate, have been transformed into contemporary residences while preserving their historical character. The carriage house at 409 Vanderbilt Avenue, a 24-foot-wide Queen Anne-style home, has been meticulously restored. Its interior features include glass and steel doors within the original archway leading to a glass-walled foyer. The living room boasts 11-foot ceilings, custom built-in shelving, and a gas fireplace with a custom mantel by Fitzhugh Karol, incorporating historic arches and gables throughout. The kitchen is equipped with high-end appliances from Viking, Bosch, Sub-Zero, and LG, and overlooks a landscaped backyard. A powder room and laundry facility are also located adjacent to the kitchen. The second floor houses three bedrooms, with the largest featuring an en suite bath. The third floor offers a skylit space with a full en suite bath, suitable as an additional bedroom or family room. This home is enhanced with modern conveniences such as split-unit heating and air conditioning, radiant heated floors, and a DVR security system. Next door, 411 Vanderbilt Avenue, another Queen Anne-style carriage house, is slightly narrower at just under 21 feet wide but includes a significant advantage: a private, gated driveway and dedicated parking, complete with a 60-amp electric car charger. This home, designed by a prominent architectural firm of its era, showcases a Flemish gable, a glass and steel door, and an original archway. Its living room also features a gas fireplace with a custom mantel by Fitzhugh Karol. The kitchen blends modern functionality with historical elements, featuring exposed beams, an arched stove hood, and a second arched carriage entrance. Beyond the kitchen, a bluestone paved patio and a landscaped backyard connect to the 45-foot gated driveway. A powder room and laundry are also present on the main floor. The second floor comprises three sunny, well-proportioned bedrooms with vaulted ceilings, two bathrooms, and ample closet space. An additional flight leads to a third-floor area, formerly a hayloft, which includes a round window, a large skylight, a full bath, and two closets, providing flexibility as a bedroom, guest room, or family room. Similar to its neighbor, this house is also outfitted with split-unit heating and air conditioning, radiant heated floors, and a DVR security system. These two properties represent a blend of historical charm and modern luxury, offering prospective buyers an opportunity to reside in a unique, thoughtfully renovated home in a historic Brooklyn neighborhood. The restoration efforts by The Brooklyn Home Company highlight a commitment to both preserving architectural heritage and integrating contemporary living standards. #ClintonHill #CarriageHouses #BrooklynHomeCompany #VanderbiltAvenue #HistoricRenovation #LuxuryHomes #BrooklynRealEstate #QueenAnneStyle

The Guemes Island Bunkhouse, designed by SHED Architecture & Design, is a two-story structure intended to provide additional sleeping accommodations for a client's family cabin. The bunkhouse is situated on Guemes Island, offering views of the Bellingham Channel, and was completed in 2023 with a total area of 590 square feet. This project aims to create a space for rest, quiet work, and family memories, with the intention that it will be passed down through generations. The bunkhouse is strategically located less than ten feet uphill from the property's existing 100-year-old log cabin. The original cabin has a unique history, having been built on Lopez Island, then dismantled and transported to Guemes Island in the 1940s. Unlike many neighboring properties that are built at the water's edge, both the original cabin and the new bunkhouse are positioned just inside the treeline. This placement offers a sense of privacy and seclusion while still providing westward views. SHED Architecture & Design's approach prioritized minimizing disturbance to the natural forested site. The bunkhouse's design frames specific views from its second floor, integrating it thoughtfully into the landscape. The project was led by Prentis Hale and Georgine Botha, with Dain Susman as the photographer. Kaplan Homes served as the main contractor, Jennie Gruss as the interior designer, and Todd Perbix as the structural engineer. The design reflects a careful consideration of its natural surroundings and the client's long-term vision for the property. The modest size of the bunkhouse, at 590 sq ft, suggests an efficient use of space while maximizing comfort and functionality for its intended purpose as an auxiliary living area. The combination of its thoughtful siting, historical context with the main cabin, and specific design intentions positions the Guemes Island Bunkhouse as a discreet yet significant addition to the family property. #ResidentialArchitecture #HouseDesign #GuemesIsland #SHEDArchitecture #Bunkhouse #CabinLife #ForestedSite

This article showcases six distinct properties across the United States, each embodying a modern farmhouse style with rustic elements. These homes are situated in various locations, including Washington, Connecticut; Garrison, New York; Bluffton, South Carolina; Sherman Oaks, California; Valley Village, California; and Atlanta, Georgia, offering a diverse range of settings from leafy, expansive acreage to more urban, tree-lined streets. The property in Washington, Connecticut, is a five-bedroom cedar-clad barn home constructed in 2008, set on eighty acres. It features a two-sided fireplace, a wood-beamed living room with glass doors opening to a covered porch, and views of a pond. The lower level includes a gym, game room, and an entertainment space with a bar. The estate also comprises a two-bedroom guesthouse, a pool, spa, patio, and an orchard, located near Lake Waramaug and New Preston. In Garrison, New York, a newly built four-bedroom home, known as The Garrison House, blends classic farmhouse details. Its interior is characterized by wide-plank wood floors, exposed reclaimed-timber beams, vintage fixtures, and a chef's farmhouse kitchen with a large, wood-topped island. The 2.74-acre lot provides a patio with a stone fireplace, grassy yards, mature trees, and a guest cottage, with proximity to hiking trails, a Metro-North train station, the Hudson River, and the cultural and dining amenities of Cold Spring. Bluffton, South Carolina, features an award-winning barn-inspired farmhouse from 2022, built with shou-sugi-ban charred cedar. This five-bedroom home highlights a living room with a shiplap ceiling, French doors, and a gas fireplace, adjoining an open kitchen-dining room. The property offers a private pool, firepit, gardens, and river views, within a resort community that provides various amenities such as restaurants, a spa, stables, and sports courts. A classic five-bedroom farm-style house from 1936 in Sherman Oaks, California, has been updated with contemporary features. This open-plan residence includes vaulted ceilings, four skylights, a floating central staircase, and a gourmet kitchen with Moroccan tiling, a glass-fronted bar, a large central island, and a built-in daybed. The exterior boasts a pergola, a gas grill and smoker, a salt-water pool, an outdoor theater, and a sports court, and is a short drive from the Getty Museum. In Valley Village, California, a 2019 four-bedroom farmhouse is distinguished by vertical board-and-batten siding and a front barn door. Its open-plan interior showcases exposed beams, shiplap ceilings, a chef's kitchen with quartz counters and a drinks refrigerator, and a living room with accordion glass doors leading to a covered patio. The landscaped property, situated 25 minutes from downtown L.A., includes a waterfall pool and spa, a built-in grill, and an orange tree. Finally, Atlanta, Georgia, presents a three-bedroom modern farmhouse built in 2021 on a tree-lined street in historic Oakland City. The home features an open main living space with a fireplace, a kitchen with an eat-in island, and a primary bedroom with sliding barn doors that open to a spa-like bathroom with marble tile and a soaker tub. The lot includes a covered patio and a large, fenced backyard, with downtown Atlanta located 15 minutes away by car. Each of these properties illustrates the enduring appeal and varied interpretations of the modern farmhouse aesthetic, combining rustic charm with contemporary living. #ModernFarmhouse #RusticHomes #PropertyShowcase #RealEstate #HomeDesign #LuxuryHomes #ArchitecturalStyle #FarmhouseRenovation #USProperties