A model home with "Wow Factor"

"I wasn't in the market for a log home, but I had been living in Westfield and the model had caught my eye," says homeowner Doug Brown. "So after driving by hundreds of times, one day I just pulled in. I was struck by how beautiful the interior is. Then I brought my daughter, and her enthusiasm certainly added to mine."

The Northeastern Log Homes model on Southampton Road in Westfield, Massachusetts is open seven days a week. Explains sales consultant John Quinlan, "This is a traditional log home with a contemporary interior designed for the "Wow Factor". It belies every myth about log homes being too dark, too woody and too Early American."

Balancing log home living with contemporary style

Located in nearby Granby, Massachusetts, the Brown's home is perfectly comfortable in a neighborhood of traditional upscale contemporaries, Capes, Colonials and New England farmhouses set on generous lot sizes. "I wanted easy care, convenience and access to major highways. I also did not want a densely wooded site," says Doug, whose home boasts a sweeping drive, formal landscaping and perennial gardens. Also within site of the home's back deck are a swimming pool with cascading waterfall and barbecue-patio area.

To create a stylishly casual interior, Michelle employed natural materials throughout - leather upholstered pieces, hand-knotted wool rugs and a river rock fireplace with a raised hearth that provides extra seating during parties.

"We wanted to combine the wood with a range of subtle hues, textures and materials. There are faux painted walls and patterned wallpaper and window treatments. We also balanced traditional with contemporary elements, such as an antler chandelier with low voltage lighting," emphasizes Michelle.

Indeed, Northeastern's Westfield Model, in concert with Doug and Michelle's plan modifications and "eye for style" has achieved that goal - superbly.