The Heritage Project
The Heritage Project is a true example of what custom building with Buffum Homes can look like when a floorplan is used as a starting point, not a limitation. While this home was originally inspired by our Gloryfield plan, the final result became something entirely unique through extensive customization, strategic additions, and thoughtful design modifications tailored specifically to this family’s needs.
This family came to us with a very specific goal: creating a functional multigenerational home that could comfortably support their lifestyle. A traditional neighborhood setting and standard floorplan simply would not have accommodated what they needed. Because of this, we helped guide them through the land acquisition process in their desired area while also completing all necessary due diligence on the property, including buildability investigations, perc testing, installation of a new and improved culvert, working with EGLE and the municipalities, and other site evaluations required before construction could begin.
From there, the home quickly evolved well beyond its original design. The base plan initially featured 4 bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms above grade, but significant modifications transformed the layout and functionality of the home.
Key customizations included:
◦ Addition of a fully integrated in-law suite featuring its own private office, kitchen, dining area, and primary suite
◦ Added sunroom during construction to create expanded living and gathering space
◦ Enlarged laundry and mudroom areas for improved layout flow and increased square footage
◦ Conversion to a zero-step entry design for long-term accessibility and convenience
◦ Raised basement ceiling height for a more open and functional lower level
◦ Expanded exterior living with a larger deck and patio space for entertaining and outdoor enjoyment
The second floor remained relatively similar to the original concept, featuring 3 bedrooms and 1 full bathroom. The lower level was intentionally designed with future flexibility in mind, offering the opportunity to finish an additional 1,650 square feet including:
◦ 3 potential additional bedrooms
◦ 2 full bathrooms
◦ Wet bar
◦ Large family room and recreation space
In addition to its functional layout changes, The Heritage Project is filled with beautiful custom finishes that add warmth, texture, and character throughout the home. Real wood beams, butcher block countertops in select areas, elevated trim details, a soaking tub, a beautifully tiled custom shower, and other thoughtfully selected finishes all contribute to the home’s timeless and inviting design. The client brought a strong vision and excellent taste to the project, resulting in a home that feels both intentional and highly personalized.
In total, The Heritage Project includes approximately 3,100 square feet above grade, with an additional 1,650 square feet of finishable lower-level space.
Projects like this are especially rewarding because they highlight exactly what Buffum Homes is built around: flexibility, problem-solving, and collaboration. We enjoy working alongside clients to take an existing concept and modify it into a home that genuinely reflects how they live, both now and for years to come.
This home is a strong representation of the versatility Buffum Homes offers and the level of customization possible when building truly custom.
