When a young couple approached me to design and develop a farm estate north of Nashville, it was the quintessential dream project. Designing a custom home and farm layout is inherently complex, especially for clients new to building. They had many questions about interior layouts and land use. Initially, we planned to start with the main house, but we decided it would be more practical to begin with the guesthouse and retreat barn first. This approach would provide the clients with valuable experience before moving on to the larger structures.

To expedite the process, we opted to purchase and modify a stock floor plan, saving both time and money. This allowed us to begin construction more swiftly. One memorable moment was persuading the husband to include a winding road that crossed a creek, showcasing the property’s natural beauty. Despite initial concerns about the cost, this design choice added charm and created a more inviting approach to the estate.

The couple envisioned a large barn for the husband’s car collection and entertaining, a three-bedroom guesthouse, and a grand manor house, along with a vegetable garden. We named the estate Highfields to reflect its elevated position and impressive views.

The guesthouse was designed to appear as if it had been on the property for a century, using a neutral color palette to enhance its spaciousness. The retreat barn evolved from a car storage space into a multifunctional area with a gathering room, dining space, and home office. The outdoor areas were designed for large gatherings, featuring a bed swing and weatherproof furniture.

This project honed my skills in land development and architectural design, showing how plans can evolve. Creating Highfields was a rewarding and inspiring journey, strengthening my connection with the clients and enriching my professional experience.