Second Home Fulfills a Dream 

When the Kasprzyks wanted to turn their log home into a cozy, nature getaway for both quiet relaxation and weekend entertaining of guests, they knew interior designer Michelle Rohrer-Lauer was the right person for the job. As the owner and founder of Chicago-based Michelle’s Interiors, Michelle had the expertise and skill to transform the interior of this woodland house into a serene, luxury log cabin that had been the dream of the homeowners for years. As the place where they would eventually retire, the Kasprzyks wanted to make sure their second home was a vacation sanctuary for family gatherings and peaceful tranquility.

In order to embrace the mountainous influences of the surrounding timberland area, Michelle created a custom-made, wooden table with tree-trunk legs yet with a smooth, refined top for the dining room. This complemented the finished log wood on the walls, cabinets and staircase, making for a coordinated and central-themed cabin full of picturesque rustic charm.

Michelle harmonized the theme with earthy shades of red, blue and green patchwork on a quilted, overstuffed, two-cushion sofa, adding zest to the home’s calm, neutral palette. In keeping with the mission of bringing nature indoors, Michelle selected modern-bucolic, wrought iron bar stools with elaborate animal designs carved into the backs. Sleek lines and rich expresso metal finishes expressed in these kitchen bar stools were used to set the room apart from the honeyed log walls.

The homeowners’ love for woodlands was carried out in every room of the house, including the bathrooms. Embellished cabinetry with antique antler pull knobs and a vanity light fixture reminiscent of hewed wood display the remarkable detailing that went into the cabin’s design.

In the living room, the high, pitched ceiling boasts log wood framing and creates a large, free flowing space into the kitchen and dining area. This open-concept floor plan communicates an appreciation for family closeness and entertaining.

Instead of hanging a cliché white tail antler chandelier in the center of the room, Michelle chose a dual-colored, wood-blade ceiling fan with a contrasting metallic base. Tall, picture windows were framed to capture crisp, panoramic views of the mountainous Wisconsin landscape.  

A stack-stone fireplace with a pine-garland décor element draped over the mantel stabilizes the room and sets the perfect ambiance for friendly conversation with friends. Knowing that the Kasprzyks love to read, Michelle also designed a soothing sun room with comfortable, wicker furniture as a little, home-style nook for quiet time as well as get-togethers.

Cozy, woodland-styled bedrooms; fully equipped spa baths; and multiple conversational-seating arrangements are all examples of how Michelle designed the home for both form and function. She also added entertainment space provided by an outdoor, country-esc porch for hosting visitors on weekends and holidays.

After extensive planning and collaboration with her clients, Michelle created a comfortable yet stylish forest lodge surrounded by beautiful, lakeside views for the homeowners to enjoy for years to come. To learn more, visit: www.michellesinteriors.com.