A Home That Tells a Story

What makes this home truly exceptional is its deeply personal touches, each detail thoughtfully curated to reflect the homeowner’s journey, passions, and cherished memories. An avid traveler and collector, she envisioned a space that blended her worldly inspirations with the warmth of home. Having previously lived just a few miles away on a quiet lakeside lane, she sought to carry forward the best elements of her past home into this new space. One of the most sentimental pieces was a beloved bathroom sink, carefully removed and seamlessly integrated into the new design—preserving a tangible piece of her history.

Her keen eye for detail rivals that of any interior designer, and her impeccable sense of style is evident in every inch of the home. Having recently lost her husband of 50 years, she embarked on this project with enthusiasm and determination, pouring her energy into creating a space that was both elegant and deeply personal. She achieved warmth throughout the home with exquisite fabrics, original paintings, and a curated collection of antiques that set the foundation for her color palette.

One particularly striking feature of the home is its custom-designed entryway. During her travels, she captured photographs of beautiful entry arches that inspired her. Each had elements she admired, and John Engerman, with his creative vision, skillfully blended those influences into a grand and welcoming entrance—a true reflection of her personality and aesthetic sensibilities.

The home’s great room is anchored by a stunning fireplace, adorned with hand-selected Blue Delft tiles she collected over the years. Each tile was carefully placed by our skilled tile installer to create a design that is as visually captivating as it is sentimental. The dining room ceiling, detailed with Venetian plaster, accentuates her dainty antique table and delicate cane chairs from the 1800s—an elegant nod to timeless craftsmanship.

While the home’s exterior presents a quaint and inviting aesthetic, the interior surprises with spacious hallways that create a sense of grandeur. Every detail was chosen with purpose, including thoughtful spaces designed for family gatherings. A dedicated bunk room, an original Pac-Man arcade, a card table, and a shuffleboard ensure that her children and grandchildren will always have a place to create new memories.

Building this home was an invigorating experience, as the homeowner’s vision and involvement in every detail made it one of our most cherished projects. Her passion for design and appreciation for craftsmanship transformed this house into more than just a home—it became a personal masterpiece, uniquely hers. We are grateful for the opportunity to bring her dream to life.