An idyllic escape for a local couple and their horses.

Story by Maya Brenningmeyer | Photography by Matt Kocourek

Searching for a second property to accommodate their horses, Bridget and Rex Vanier were willing to put in a little extra work to find the perfect fit. “When we discovered this property, it was ideal for them (the horses), though the house itself required extensive renovation,” Bridget says. Adjacent to a barn and surrounded by open pastures and fields, the property was the perfect mix of farmhouse charm and outdoor accessibility.

“After completing some basic updates to make it livable, we quickly fell in love with the setting – the tranquility, the proximity to our horses, and the overall charm,” she continues. To handle the renovation process, the couple turned to MD Design Build, a unique design/build firm that combines the expertise of interior designer Erin Mankameyer and builder Ryan Dixon. “Having worked with Erin before, we reached out to her about this property just as she and Ryan had formed MD Design Build. Becoming their first clients was both exciting and deeply rewarding.”

One of the team’s main goals was to preserve the home’s classic farmhouse style while introducing modern functionality and comfort. “The overall vision was to make it look like it was always there,” says Erin. “We didn’t want to put on an addition that didn’t make any sense or felt out of place.” MD Design Build’s unique collaboration between builder and interior designer allowed the team to streamline the initial renovation process. Everything from adjusting room layouts to selecting updated fixtures was handled in-house and within the pre-approved budget.

To begin the transformation, cleaner lines and pops of color were incorporated to modernize the farmhouse. Fun textures and patterns complement the home’s existing natural tones, and small adjustments, like new window placements, allow the homeowners a clear view of their horses. “Even though it’s modernized and updated, it still feels original,” says Ryan. “After being out in a rustic environment with the horses and barns, they’re able to enter a home that feels clean and sharp but that maintains a rustic feel.”

A notable detail of the renovation is that they were able to maintain the home’s original size. Rather than building onto the farmhouse, the home’s footprint was adjusted to accommodate the homeowners’ daily lifestyles and improve the overall flow. “Much of the previously underutilized space was repurposed to create a more open and functional layout,” Rex mentions. To improve the organization of the main level, the kitchen was expanded, and a pantry and laundry room were added onto the main floor.

Small touches, such as a hidden coffee bar in the hallway between the pantry and kitchen, or multiple access points to the laundry room, work to make the home more livable. “As the project evolved, we made several design adjustments, ranging from minor refinements to more significant changes. Through it all, Erin and Ryan guided us with thoughtful input, ensuring the end result reflected our vision perfectly.”

One of the Vanier’s favorite features of their renovated home is the new kitchen. “It opens directly to the great room and has become the heart of our home,” says Bridget. “It’s an ideal setting for entertaining guests while cooking and gathering.” Featuring a large island, comfortable bar stools, and a unique range hood, the kitchen is the perfect example of a modernized space with a touch of farmhouse charm. Zellige tile adds contrast and texture to the walls, and marble countertops provide a classic, cozy feel. The fixtures are made of unlacquered brass to create an aged look, and an additional refrigerator and oven are tucked into the butler’s pantry. “The mudroom, pantry, and kitchen areas are totally transformed,” says Erin. “They feel so much bigger, even though they’ve been divided into three different rooms. It feels like it was always supposed to be that way.”

Their love of pattern and texture continues throughout the rest of the home. A rustic floral wallpaper complements the dark gray wainscoting in the mudroom, and a shimmery, metallic wall covering adds shine to the updated powder room. The living room holds a neutral tone, incorporating dimension through unique details and thoughtful touches.

At the center of the room, a beautiful marble fireplace sits between two built-in bookcases, drawing viewers’ eyes towards two plush chairs and a magenta ottoman, perfect for guests. Above a pink-toned, patterned rug, exposed beams stretch across the ceiling, creating an additional area of interest. “The homeowners are wonderful to work with and very trusting,” says Erin. “They’re willing to take risks and let us do unique things.”

In the primary bathroom, MD Design Build created a serene escape with a splash of fun. The bathroom, containing multiple viewpoints of the couple’s horses, is decked out in dark, floral wallpaper and silver accents. “The classic clawfoot tub offers a serene escape to unwind and enjoy the sun setting on our horses grazing in the pastures,” says Bridget. Additional unique details can be found in their granddaughter’s room, where a light blue wallpaper provides a peaceful backdrop for a large, upholstered bed and a hanging chair near the windows. “The renovation has completely transformed how we live in and enjoy the home,” she continues.

MD Design Build didn’t stop at the main areas of the home; they also added outdoor updates and additions to the basement to further curate the farmhouse to the homeowners’ needs. “We looked at it as an entire property instead of just the house,” says Erin. “We utilized that to bring in a lot of things they were looking for.” Outside, these updates included a new pool, cabana, and garden in the backyard, as well as an additional barn for the horses.

In the basement of the farmhouse, they added an incredible, state-of-the-art theater and a pilates studio, which has become a favorite retreat for the homeowners. It was important to Ryan and Erin that the Vaniers felt happy with their renovated home. “We’ve always had an obsession with quality and doing it correctly,” Erin mentions. “We really hold each other accountable for everything, and we don’t cut corners. If someone brings us an idea, we’re going to figure it out.”

Now that the project is officially complete, Bridget and Rex could not be happier with their new space. “MD Design Build exceeded our expectations in every way – from their meticulous attention to detail to their ability to refine and execute our vision seamlessly,” says Bridget. By transforming the interior of the home and customizing the outdoor areas, MD Design Build created a truly idyllic escape for Bridget and Rex. “The homeowners really jump-started our business by allowing us to do this,” Ryan finishes. “It was perfect timing.”