Natural Beauty

September 12, 2024

Indoors and out, nature makes a strong impression at this Cedar Creek home.

Words by Megan Litts | Photos by Matthew Anderson

estled in the masterfully planned and upscale neighborhood of Cedar Creek in Kansas City, this charming European Countryside meets Modern Mountain-style home stands as a testament to the idea that even the most elegant of homes should tell a story—even if no one lives there.

Constructed by local contractor Brian Kuhn of BK Builds and designed by the internationally recognized Jennifer Bertrand, the house effortlessly brings the outdoors inside with touches of natural beauty, creating a living space that is both visually captivating and supremely comfortable.

Inside, an open layout seamlessly integrates the living, dining and kitchen areas, blending an earthy palette of warm browns and deep greens. The vaulted living room features a striking view of the surrounding wooded property, evoking a sense of being immersed in nature. Meanwhile, the kitchen boasts one of the most show-stopping features in the home: an expansive Sierra Ashlar stone backsplash wall that spans between the kitchen and dining room.

The blend of stone and marble throughout the home was a favorite of both the builder and the designer. The selection of warm, textured marble was intended to evoke a sense of history and a lived-in, welcoming atmosphere, as opposed to the popularly used white Carrara marble commonly seen in newer homes across the United States.

“There’s a constant push and pull between formal and casual in design,” says designer Jennifer Bertrand. She elaborates further, claiming that the greatest challenge of the project was cultivating a new style that Kansas City had never seen before while also creating a comfortable home that anybody could live in.

A primary example of this balance between casual and formal design is the downstairs bar area. Featuring the same warm marble on the bar counter as in the kitchen, the bar embodies the Modern Mountain aesthetic, enhanced by distressed elm wood and grasscloth wallpaper behind the counter. Additionally, golden accent lights hang above distressed wooden shelves, supported by metal piping extending from the wall, creating the potential for a striking focal point in the downstairs space.

The home’s hardware also plays a crucial role in its overall aesthetic. Meticulously placed door handles and cabinet pulls were selected for their unique charm, with each room and area hosting its own particular set. The use of gold-accented fixtures throughout further adds to the timeless and sophisticated feel, ensuring that every detail, no matter how small, contributes to the home’s cohesive look.

The thoughtful collaboration between BK Builds and Jennifer Bertrand has resulted in a space where every detail, from the warm, textured marble and stone accents to the meticulously chosen hardware, contributes to a cohesive and inviting atmosphere. This home truly stands as a testament to the idea that elegance is best expressed through a story of natural beauty, comfort and timeless design. It offers not just a place to live, but a sanctuary that reflects the perfect balance between casual and formal elements, providing an unparalleled living experience that feels both new and deeply rooted in tradition.

Contractor: BK Builds, @bkbuilds_kc

Interior Designer: Jennifer Bertrand, @jenniferbertranddesign

Stager: Alison Leigh Designs, @alisonleighdesigns