Farmhouse Reimagined: Inside a Classy-Casual Custom Home

Photos by Spacecrafting/Rob Grosse || Build by Haven Homes || Interior Design by O’Hara Interiors

It’s not often you hear of an entire custom home project that comes together without a hitch—no issues, challenges, or complaints. But for Independence homeowners Amy and Trevin, that’s exactly how they describe the experience of building their dream home alongside Brandon Derks of Haven Homes and Gabriela Laboy of O’Hara Interiors. In fact, when reflecting on their journey, Trevin—tears in his eyes—said, “If we built another house tomorrow, I would not do it with any two other people.”

With strong mutual trust and a shared vision, the homeowners were quick to say ‘yes’ and ‘let’s go for it’ at every stage of the process—whether selecting finishing touches or making big design decisions. But that vision started with the land itself: the site of the original Meyer Brothers Dairy barn, which first drew Amy and Trevin to the lot and helped shape the design direction for the entire project. Laboy says, “Right off the bat, [the homeowners] envisioned a modern farmhouse look”—an aesthetic that, according to Trevin, adheres to their “classy casual” style.

With a blended family of five boys moving in and out—plus two dogs!—space was another crucial consideration. The solution was an open-concept layout that promotes flow and connection between all the main living spaces—making it easy to both entertain or simply spend time together. In fact, Laboy says the entire main level was designed to be “functional, yet casual and inviting.”

To bring the big picture to life, the team leaned into an earthy palette of whites, beiges, and browns, with the occasional pop of green. They also prioritized organic materials like reclaimed wood, natural stone, and metal accents to ensure “everything could come together cohesively,” Laboy adds. This is perhaps best exemplified in the great room, where exposed beams effortlessly capture the farmhouse aesthetic while adding a layer of laid-back luxury. From the moment you step inside, Derks says, “the tall, vaulted ceilings and large windows make the home feel grand.”

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Throughout the home, layered textures and cohesive design themes add depth and character. In the main living area, for instance, the fireplace wall features the same veneer stone seen on the home’s exterior. To the left, a small wood-grade built-in with shelves for the homeowners’ decor boasts a graceful arch that mimics the one leading into the butler’s pantry nearby. It’s these subtle, repeated details that give the home a sense of intention and sophistication—inviting the homeowners to pause and appreciate them every time they’re noticed.

Now, the family spends most of their time in the great room, where stunning floor-to-ceiling windows frame the best views in the house. And every time they glance outside, they’re filled with the same certainty: This is where they were always meant to be.

Like what you see? Find product information and resources for design elements seen in this home in this comprehensive buyers’ guide.