This Renovated 100-Year-Old Farmhouse Has Some of the Coolest Stone Walls

Name: Marissa Wege
Location: Traverse City, Michigan
Type of home: Farmhouse
Size: 1680 square feet
Years lived in: 1 year, owned

Tell us a little (or a lot) about your home and the people who live there: Warbler House is an 100-year-old stone farmhouse surrounded by rolling country hills and impeccable winding roads in Northern Michigan’s Leelanau County. Warbler House was updated to functionally fit modern family living without sparing any of the historic integrity of the farms stonewalls and scenic views. As you peer out the numerous windows you can’t help but catch a glimpse of the long standing wood barn or the numerous outbuildings of the farm. Teacher by trade, designer by desire, I intended to create an oasis in the country in which my children could escape the hustle of the city and embrace the quiet, nature that surrounds the home. Crickets chirping, deer rustling the decaying leaves, and the occasional tractor being the only noises one hears throughout the night. The space was designed with family in mind, but unintentionally, the feminist inside me created a bold pink kitchen, a master suite set for a queen, and a functional space for the ones she loves.

Describe your home’s style in 5 words or less: Eclectic, Antiqued, Mod, Stone Farmhouse

What is your favorite room and why? The reclaimed kitchen is an absolute gem. When I heard that a friend was redesigning/redecorating their beautiful home/kitchen I immediately asked what they intended to do with their “old” kitchen cabinets and cupboards. They insisted that I take them along with their semi-used appliances, the only cost being removing, transporting, and then the work I would have done.

Once this happened I immediately fell in love with another designer’s use of the pale pink in her kitchen and knew I had to do it. Against my builders’ protests I insisted we paint these and top them with a beautiful terrazzo counter top. This space immediately commanded attention in the most beautiful subtle way, leaving the dining room and living room to somewhat revolve around the kitchen space. The flow of the energy of the kitchen happily marries the subtle tones of the artwork throughout the surrounding space. It’s a small but absolute serene space in the farmhouse and absolutely a favorite among family and guests.

What’s the last thing you bought (or found!) for your home? The majority of the items in the house are antiques and were either picked from local antique stores, garage sales, online auctions, and flea markets from around Michigan as well as around the world. Much of the artwork throughout the house was done by local or Midwest artists. The sofa is from Article, the white leather bar stools are from CB2, and the light fixture in the kitchen is from Lucent Lightshop.

Any advice for creating a home you love? Surround yourself with things you love, whether it be items, fabrics, colors, designs, or people. Happiness is everything and your home should make you feel good, happy.

This submission’s responses were edited for length and clarity.