Tucked neatly into an existing bay of the barn, the open kitchen is a comfortable hub of the home. Rather than create a solid division between the kitchen and the children's TV area, Franklin finished only the lower portion of the post-and-beam supports. The ladder is one of the original features of the barn that Franklin could not imagine ever removing. Cleverly integrated into the support post, its original function allowed workers to climb above large haystacks and pick and toss hay down a chute to the feeding area below. Franklin's children, 10 and 14, also enjoy this aspect of their home. "The kids and their friends run, slide, climb up the ladder and have a ton of fun," he explains, "It’s a barn! It is a place to share with friends and family." Adrienne DeRosa Photography

Douglas Fir tongue and groove + beams and two sided fireplace highlight this cozy, livable great room
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Ron Blunt Photography
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Aspect Cabinetry with Aspen door style. Wood is Maple with Praline stain and Black glaze. Laminate tops are Golden Mascarello with Barcelona edge.
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Photo: Mina Brinkey © 2013 Houzz
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Simple, rustic charm with views, views, views.
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Intricate ceiling details play off the reclaimed beams, industrial elements, and hand scraped, wide plank, white oak floors.
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A corner bench, handcrafted from Reclaimed Chestnut, offers storage below and prime seating next to a custom pizza oven painted with chalkboard paint. Photo Credit: Crown Point Cabinetry

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With a main floor master, and flowing but intimate spaces, it will function for both daily living and extended family events. Special attention was given to the siting, making sure the breath-taking views of Lake Independence are present from every room.

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