Third Time’s the Charm: A Magical Homeowner Highlight with Kayla

At Eastbrook Homes, each building experience is different. Sometimes clients come into the process unsure exactly of what they need, and our team is ready to help unearth that vision. Other times, clients know exactly what they want, and this is far from their first rodeo! Our Homeowner Highlight series aims to give interested home buyers a better understanding of what it’s like to work closely with the Eastbrook team, providing illuminating insights and helpful tips for all experience levels. 

In this edition, creative mom Kayla strikes a balance between designing a functional space where her family and her small business can both grow, while intentionally leaving some things “undone” so she can enjoy adding her own artistic magic. It’s the home – and community – of her dreams in cozy Crowner Farms nestled in DeWitt, MI. Read about Kayla’s magical experience below!

When did you move into your home?

We moved into our home in May of 2024.

What home plan do you have?

The Mayfair!

How did you incorporate your family’s lifestyle into your home? 

With this being my 3rd Eastbrook home, I knew my basic needs when picking out the floorplan as well as the necessity to make the home multifunctional throughout. For example, I knew I wanted the master bedroom on the first floor, separated from my kids on the second floor. I knew I needed to customize the pantry, making it more functional for a large family. When it came to the mudroom, I knew I needed an area that could be utilized for a built-in desk for a homework workstation. I didn’t need a third stall garage, but I knew I needed extra space to allow my creative side to come back to play through my small business, @themintedgrove. 

What is your decorating inspiration?

Modern Organic. Bringing in neutral, earthy tones throughout the home, while leaving the personal spaces to be a little “moody” and contemporary behind closed doors.

What do you love about your Eastbrook community? 

As much as I was drawn to this neighborhood for its clubhouse perks and location convenience, it’s the neighbors that really steal the show and make this place feel like home sweet home. From the mini motorcade of kids cruising around in their Barbie Jeeps to the weekend basketball showdowns in the cul-de-sacs, followed by driveway picnics, Crowner Farms is where the real magic happens. It’s safe to say we hit the jackpot with this community!

What are your favorite features in your home? 

I LOVE having the master on the main floor and the two-story great room. Those were non-negotiables when picking a floor plan, and I am so happy I stuck to my guns on this. Another favorite feature in my home is the ability to still DIY. I love that I was able to have Eastbrook build the quality home they always do, but then when it came to cosmetic things, I can still roll up my sleeves and get creative with this space. From the fiberglass bathroom showers to the bare kitchen walls waiting for a splash of personality, I intentionally left some things undone so I could sprinkle my own magic dust and turn this house into a home sweet home.

What was your building process /Eastbrook experience like? 

Though this is my third Eastbrook home, this is my second building experience. Just like the first time through, it was smooth and painless. I did my research a few years back on builders in the area and confidently chose to build with Eastbrook due to their quality. As life changes, so do your needs and finances. I found peace in knowing I could yet again build with Eastbrook without needing to fork over all the money upfront because it is not like a traditional construction loan.  

What does “home” mean to you?

Home is where my heart is full, my hands are busy, and my soul is happy. Home is where my little ones run around with muddy feet, right after the floors were mopped, where there is always a chaotic symphony of laughter, messes, and love. It’s somewhere we are proud to invite friends to, yet also a cozy spot where we can whip up the latest slime at the kitchen table, well knowing it will get messy. 

Do you have any tips or tricks for new homeowners? 

Be picky. Do your research… or at least talk to someone such as myself who has done the legwork. 

Any other thoughts you would like to add? 

I just want to give a big shout-out to my rockstar Designer, Sarah O’Gorman, and the structural genius, Matt Heitz! I may have waltzed into those design meetings armed with paint color swatches and a vision board, but these two brought the real magic to the table. We may have had a few more rounds of front elevation debates than I care to admit, but instead of a team on the brink of a design meltdown, I got an email that said, “Good Morning Kayla! You didn’t overthink a thing! It’s a big deal and it’s gotta be perfect.” Now, if that’s not top-notch customer service, I don’t know what is! Cheers to the dream team that made my home dreams a reality!

Whether you’re looking to find a magical move-in ready West Michigan home for your new beginning or build a personalized home that can grow with your family, the Eastbrook team is ready to grant your wish! Browse our feature gallery, schedule a model home tour, and read through our blog for inspiration. Connect with us any time to start designing your dream home!