Coastal Luxury in St. Michael's Maryland

Tina and John, an accomplished couple with busy professional lives, embarked on an extraordinary journey to build their dream luxury custom home on Broad Creek off the Chesapeake Bay in St. Michaels, Maryland. Tina, the Director for the Baltimore Ravens Cheerleaders and owner of a Medical Skin Spa, and John, a professional pilot and owner of a jet management company, sought to create a sanctuary that balanced their demanding careers with their desire for a serene, picturesque retreat. Their dream was realized through a partnership with Mueller Homes, a renowned waterfront luxury home builder and architect Jonathan Rivera.

This project was featured in Ocean Home Magazine and Chesapeake Views Magazine.

OCEAN HOME MAGAZINE AUG SEP 2024
As seen on the cover of the national publication, Ocean Home Magazine

Finding the Perfect Waterfront Lot 

The journey began with the search for the perfect lot.  Their realtor introduced them to a property that offered expansive water views, and it was love at first sight. The breathtaking scenery of the Chesapeake Bay became the perfect canvas for their dream home.  They imagined picturesque views of both sunrises and sunsets on this one-of-a-kind location.  Now, they would need to find the builder who could build them a unique home that would complement the location.

After interviewing several candidates, Tina and John were particularly impressed by Mueller Homes. They were drawn to Mueller’s reputation for quality, numerous awards, and their unique design concierge services. This level of personalized service was crucial for the couple, given their busy schedules and the need for comprehensive support throughout the building process.

Assembling the Team

Building a home on the Chesapeake Bay came with its unique set of challenges, primarily due to the critical area guidelines aimed at protecting the delicate waterfront ecosystem. Maryland’s Critical Area Program enforces strict regulations on land use and resource management within 1,000 feet of tidal waters and wetlands, including a 100-foot buffer area adjacent to these waters.  Their team included constant collaboration between architect Jonathan Rivera, Lane Engineering, and of course Mueller Homes.

Tina and John were initially unaware of the full extent of these regulations. However, their team brought a wealth of experience and strong relationships to the process, guiding the couple through the complex process of compliance. Their comprehensive plan included stormwater management, specific plantings, and an escrow to ensure the sustainability of trees and plants in the wetlands.

One of the most remarkable aspects of Tina and John’s experience was the seamless collaboration between Mueller Homes, their architect Jonathan Rivera, and Lane Engineering. The trio worked diligently behind the scenes, allowing Tina and John to focus on their professional commitments without feeling the need to micromanage the construction process. This synergy fostered a high level of comfort and trust.  As Tina noted, “This expertise proved invaluable in overcoming the hurdles and moving forward with our dream home.”  

Waterfront Building Expertise

Tina noted, “It’s important to work with folks who understand the critical area guidelines and all of the parameters associated with building on a waterfront property, so that you can plan and proceed accordingly.” 

The Vision

As they designed their home, certain elements were non-negotiable for Tina and John. The great room and kitchen, intended for frequent entertaining, needed to be spacious and welcoming, with stunning water views as the focal point. They also prioritized a workout room with great views, a master bedroom with a deck to enjoy the sunrise and sunset, and an outdoor kitchen for seamless indoor-outdoor living.

Additional must-haves included a mudroom for practical purposes.  This area is used to wash their dogs or Tina’s favorite pastime, nurturing and tending to plants.  Each bedroom needed its own bathroom to ensure guest comfort, since entertaining is a favorite pastime.  Another unique feature is the in-law suite over the garage, which provides guests or their parents a private place to relax for longer stays.

The architectural design also featured elements close to their hearts, like the incorporation of turrets, inspired by Tina’s brother’s home, which offered beautiful views and added a touch of elegance to their coastal farmhouse aesthetic.  Nautical clapboard is showcased throughout the home and the windows and views abound.   

The Coastal Farmhouse Style

Tina and John’s design style can be best described as a Coastal Farmhouse. They favored a mix of clean lines and classic coastal elements, aiming for a timeless look with neutral colors rather than bold trends. The goal was to create a home that would stand the test of time, with a style that would not necessitate frequent changes. 

The open layout of the great room flowing into the kitchen, along with pocket doors leading to the outdoor kitchen and pool area, exemplified their desire for easy, flexible living and entertaining.  The office included views that allow them to carry on work, while enjoying the spacious waterfront views.  The screened-in porch further showcased their love for spaces that blend cozy functionality with relaxation.

The Construction Process

Throughout the construction process, Tina and John found the quality and craftsmanship of Mueller Homes to be exemplary. From the stunning batten board work in the great room to the intricate curved walls and hidden outlets integrated into the trim, every detail was meticulously crafted. This attention to detail extended to practical elements like integrated floor vents
and electrical outlets, enhancing both the aesthetic and functional aspects of their home.

Despite the home’s grand appearance from the outside, they ensured that the interiors remained cozy and welcoming, with bedrooms designed to be comfortable rather than ostentatious. Tina reflected, “What I love is that our home feels functional as well as beautiful.  We can go from a quiet family evening to entertaining 100 people relatively easily. That’s exactly what we envisioned when we began this process.”

A Concierge Approach to Design

What truly set Mueller Homes apart, for Tina and John, was their concierge approach.  Their design concierge, played a pivotal role in guiding Tina and John through the selection of fixtures, lighting, and flooring, providing expert opinions and keeping them on track with a well-organized timeline. This level of support was crucial for the couple, as it allowed them to make informed decisions, without feeling overwhelmed.

The stellar communication with PJ, the President of Mueller Homes, was another highlight.  Tina
noted, “Whether via text or email, PJ was always accessible,” ensuring that Tina and John were kept in the loop and any concerns were promptly addressed. This open line of communication was a testament to the professionalism and dedication of the Mueller Homes team.  “As busy professionals ourselves, we really appreciate the scope of what professionalism means – from good communication, to responsiveness, to taking the lead in quarterbacking the entire project.”

Living the Dream

Now settled into their dream home, Tina and John couldn’t be happier. The setting of the home on the Chesapeake Bay is a daily reminder of their journey and the fruition of their vision. Entertaining family and friends is a joy!  Their caterer particularly appreciates the double ovens, double dishwashers, and the seamless flow between the indoor and outdoor kitchens, making meal preparation, for large gatherings, effortless.

The craftsmanship and quality of the build have left a lasting impression on all who visit. Tina and John’s home, while grand in scale, exudes a warmth and comfort that makes it inviting and livable. Every aspect, from the professional communication to the meticulous workmanship, has
exceeded their expectations.

In the end, Tina and John’s experience with Mueller Homes was nothing short of exceptional. The blend of professionalism, attention to detail, and personalized service created a home that is not only a beautiful retreat but also a testament to the power of collaboration and expert guidance in realizing one’s dream. For Tina and John, their luxury custom home is more than just a residence; it is a cherished sanctuary that perfectly reflects their vision, lifestyle, and love for the Chesapeake Bay. 

Sources:

  • BUILDER: Mueller Homes
  • ARCHITECTURE:  Jonathan Rivera