The young couple relocating from LA had a vision: to build an A-frame kit home on their secluded wooded property in Indianola. But after navigating a number of challenges with their property and trying to make a kit home work, they engaged Estes Builders and designed a custom home that is far from an A-frame—but much more in tune with the property and the homeowners’ lifestyle needs.
Because the lot is large but the buildable footprint was small, Estes maximized the layout to make efficient use of the home’s 2,000 square feet. Flexibility was crucial, as the couple plans to start a family but will host guests in the meantime. They utilized open space concepts but made use of every opportunity for hidden storage, including a two-door pantry and a ventilated space under the stairs for the cat’s litter box.
The fifth home on the street, the property’s setback changed after starting the design process. Estes Builders provided the necessary support to help the buyers through a challenging permitting and zoning variance process with the county and to adjust plans accordingly.
The lush landscape of the property, nicknamed “Little Fern Forest,” plays a key role, as well. The house features a large shed roof, creating a high loft overlooking the kitchen and great room. The treehouse feeling is amplified by a 24-foot wall of windows looking out into the towering evergreens and balconies on the front and back of the home. Skylights in the garage look out to bright, natural light and towering evergreens above, further merging indoors and outdoors.
Flooded with light and with a ceiling rising more than two stories, the kitchen is open and airy, featuring a large island and two sinks. Knotty wood flooring adds a warm balance to the white walls while offering a nod to the forest just steps beyond.
