What Inspired the Design of Your Home?

My dad is from Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Both of my aunts who live there built log cabins—two on the shore of Lake Michigamme and one tucked in the woods of Negaunee. We would visit, at the very least, every summer and winter. Staying at “camp” and the cabin was like being transported to this amazing world—a world that was not my everyday normal growing up in a suburb of Lansing. Going up north was this beautiful experience, an amazing adventure.

Tell Us a Little About the Building Process

We were so blessed to find our builder (Bruce Davis, Luxe Development Group) who knew how traditional A-frames were constructed. We had to make some tweaks because of current building codes—like using LVL lumber—but all-in-all, I’m pleased with the construction. It was a huge moment when the construction crew “raised the A’s”—it felt like a modern barn raising!

Why Do You Think People Are Looking for Home Designs That Are Unique and Different from Traditional Home Designs?

I think most people, when they come home or go on vacation, they just want different—a different feel, a different view. They want to experience something that is beautiful and well kept. Simple, yet intriguing. And memorable. McMansions were a huge goal for many people for many years, which I never really understood.

What Makes Your Home Unique and Different?

Our A-frame is based on a vintage ‘60s plan by Western Wood Products Associated out of Portland, Oregon. It’s large for an A-frame (around 1,400 square feet), yet very small compared to an average American home. The windows are a huge “wow” factor, as well as the view from the loft. The view of the trees or the lake, the sunrise or sunset, nature coming into your home—it brings a calming and rejuvenating feeling to your soul. That feeling of escaping the grind of everyday life and being able to fix your eyes on natural beauty does wondrous things to and for a person. We spend most of our time outside of work in our home so I believe it should be a space that captivates us.

One of the biggest struggles I had was in deciding on the exterior. We wanted it to be in harmony with nature, but still have a retro “pop.” I really wanted raw cedar board and batten, but I knew the upkeep was going to be a nightmare and that there could always be the possibility of mold from water damage. My builder actually suggested Quality Edge TruCedar^®. It was the perfect solution, and I am absolutely in love with the Mountain Laurel green color we picked out. It gives the illusion of painted wood without the upkeep, but still has that 60’s rustic cabin vibe.