PART 1: A HOME THAT LOVE AND HARD WORK BUILT
I'm a nature enthusiast and I enjoy all things home. I'm eager to take you on a journey through a house that time and nature have shaped into a home.
Picture yourself on a winding street, flanked by majestic trees, as you approach the end of cul-du-sac. There, you'll find a delightful home surrounded by lush gardens, a meticulously manicured lawn, a refreshing pool, a rustic stone fireplace, and a quaint little cabin – all overlooking a meandering river.
It may sound like a scene taken from the pages of my favorite novel, but it's a tangible place with a beautiful narrative of its own.
This captivating house was painstakingly built by its current owners, and every detail, from design to construction, reflects their dedication.
This dwelling seems to embody a life of its own. As you pull into the driveway and step out, you're greeted by a 7-foot bubbling fountain.
Flowers embrace you from all sides, and the entrance reveals a charming foyer adorned with walls crafted from smooth river rocks.
Venturing further inside, your eyes are immediately drawn to the kitchen, featuring solid wood cabinets that now bear the marks of their own unique journey. What's not immediately apparent is that these cabinets were handcrafted by the owners using trees that fell on their property in the aftermath of a storm years ago.
The countertops feature a poly finish that resembles the beauty of natural stone. Above the sink, a quaint window offers a view of approaching guests.
But what truly sets this kitchen apart are its distinctive and endearing details, such as the two stone sheep heads that support a charming shelf above the window.
A round dining table in the kitchen carries the weight of countless cherished memories and shared meals. One can only imagine the laughter, tears, and heartfelt stories exchanged at this table over the years.
Every aspect of this home exudes a sense of grounding, effortlessly connecting you to the essence of family.
As you glance down, you'll notice that you're stepping onto large, irregular stone tiles, each with its own unique shape and dimension. Oversized grout lines serve as the perfect finishing touch, tying together the kitchen's intricate details.
There's so much more to explore, including a loft that's accessed via vintage ladders from a warehouse, still adorned with their original finish, perfectly complementing the rustic railings. This loft serves as an office for one of the owners, a tranquil sanctuary.
Stepping down into the living room, your eyes are drawn to a magnificent floor-to-ceiling wood-burning fireplace. Imagine the countless cups of tea and coffee shared by the fireside on long winter days.
On this particular cloudy day, the skies part to gift the home with fleeting rays of light, casting a radiant glow upon its every facet.
During our visit, the owner graciously gives us a lesson on crafting a flower arrangement, going the extra mile to retrieve a vase gifted by a dear friend. We follow her through her garden as she selects blooms, creating a fresh centerpiece for the cabin – a perfect touch for our photographs.
Every facet of this home is perfectly imperfect and utterly captivating.
This is a home that stands in a league of its own.
This is a home that narrates the love story of a couple who cherish deeply and care wholeheartedly.
This is a home that love and unwavering dedication have built.
Written by Ariela Bakken
9/29/23
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Photo and video creation: Nolan Olivier