Living Large

September 13, 2023

A custom home relishes in generous proportions—and small details that make big impressions.

Words by Megan Felling | Photos by Matthew Anderson

avid Helm of Helm Construction is a self-described maximizer. His custom 1.5-story home in Lenexa’s Timber Rock subdivision, featuring six bedrooms and six and a half baths, lives large.

After more than 20 years in the home industry in one way or another—as a painter, remodeler or flipper—he learned what works, what feels good and what could be done better.

For example? “The average house is around 3,000 square feet, but 3,500 just feels better,” David says. “Three-foot-wide doors are typical, but a three-foot-six opening makes it easier to maneuver. There’s a full five feet between the cooktop and the island in this home,” notes David.

“I’m a visionary, a maximizer,” David says. “I like to do things nicely, with quality. Do it right and do it well. I wanted this home to feel spacious and open but still connected. You get that sense right from the front door—the oversized door and windows with understated mullions maximize the light.”

Interior designer Regan Romero used a palette that pulls from the stone exterior’s natural, earthy, muted colors while weaving in wood details. The result is a sophisticated modern cottage with clean lines and high contrast.

“The office paint is a rich dark black with blue undertones against the white oak wood floors. It’s bold but not overpowering,” she explains. “In the kitchen, we incorporated that same blue-black and lightened it with bright counters and a white oak island.”

Regan played with scale and mixed metals to add more interest to the home. “I love the two oversized sconces in the entry; they are different, fun and a little unexpected,” Regan says.

She also added softness through curves on the range hood and fireplace design.

The lower level offers a huge recreation room, a sixth bedroom, a walk-up bar, a theater room and an exercise room. The home also features an oversized three-car garage and a large mud room with storage cubbies.

Outside is a 22- by 20-foot covered patio with a fireplace and ceiling fan; it overlooks the cul-de-sac lot and offers plenty of room to entertain. “I wanted to be able to have a table and also have room to move,” David notes.

Mission accomplished. There is plenty of room to move, relax, entertain and enjoy the beauty of this custom family home.

Builder: Helm Construction, @helmconstructionkc

Designer: Regan Romero Design, @reganromerodesign