Building a home is the unique opportunity to create the backdrop for your memories.” – Unknown
Spring has arrived, bringing fresh energy, new beginnings, and many reasons to celebrate. Welcome to our Spring 2026 newsletter — full of engaging information, team updates, and highlights of what's to come.
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In This Issue
- The Power of the Design Studio
- Featured Home: The Destin
- Architecture Spotlight: The Beauty of Millwork
- Design Revival: The Banquette
- The Home Tear-down Opportunity
- Development Information
- Miller Marriott Realty Update
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The Power of the Design Studio
At Miller Marriott, our process is constantly evolving—shaped by the thoughtful feedback and experiences our clients share with us. We genuinely listen, learn, and refine how we work so that every step feels more seamless, more collaborative, and more enjoyable than the last. That commitment to continuous improvement is what led us to reimagine the traditional homebuilding journey into something far more connected and client-centered.
We believe a custom home shouldn’t be a puzzle you have to piece together yourself. Traditionally, building a home is a fragmented process that leaves homeowners to bridge the gap among architects, interior designers, and builders. We’ve changed that with our Design Studio approach.
Under one roof, we unite architects, interior designers, drafters, and construction experts into a single, collaborative unit. Your journey begins with our Client Experience team and Architect, who define your vision and design goals and put a plan in place to marry them to the land. In addition to the Client Experience Associate and Architect, each client has a dedicated Interior Designer, Drafter, and Construction Manager—ensuring that every creative spark is grounded in structural reality. Beyond the dedicated team, the client is supported by our studio’s collective professional design and construction experience, providing an exceptional client experience.
The Miller Marriott Roadmap:
- Pre-Design: Partner with our Client Experience team to determine whether the process is right for your project and to set your goals.
- The Creative Vision: Our Architects, Designers, and Drafters join the fold to transform your individual design goals.
- Real-Time Execution: Your Construction Manager enters early, ensuring your design is buildable and meets our high-quality standards.
The Design Studio Advantage:
- Total Cohesion: Interior architecture and design elements aren't an afterthought; they are baked into the architectural DNA. Think millwork and fireplace design.
- Collective Wisdom: While you have a dedicated team, you benefit from the diverse experience of our entire firm.
- No Surprises: With advanced 3D visualization and constant budget alignment, we take the guesswork out of custom building.
Experience a process where the details matter as much to us as they do to you. Welcome to the Studio.
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Featured Home: The Destin
From Newlywed Rental to Forever Home.
When Cathy and Mike married in 1985, they spent their first year together in a cozy 700-square-foot lakefront cottage. It was small but full of charm—sunlight dancing on the water each morning, evenings spent on the dock, and memories that marked the start of their journey as newlyweds.
Over the next five years, work took them north, but their hearts never truly left the lake. Then, on Memorial Day weekend in 1991, fate stepped in. As they drove past their old cottage, they saw a simple “For Sale by Owner” sign on the property. Two days later, their offer was accepted, and by the following Monday, they had sold their northern home. Their return felt completely “meant to be.”
The previous owners had added a garage, so moving back as a family of three—plus their dog—was a comfortable transition. As their family grew with the addition of another daughter, Cathy and Mike realized they needed more room to create new memories. In October 1996, they decided to tear down the original cottage and build a larger home on the existing foundation.
Years passed, and their lake home continued to evolve alongside their family. With new generations and changing needs, Cathy and Mike dreamed of a place to age gracefully and a true multi-generational home. They turned to Miller Marriott to design and build their beautiful new home, blending timeless design with lakeside living.
Today, the cottage that started it all is now their forever home—a reflection of every chapter of their love story by the lake.
The narrow and steep lot required an inspired design along with complex site planning and framing to reach the client's goals.
Mike and Cathy's goal was to live on the main floor with bright, comfortable, open spaces and lake views, while the rest of the home would accommodate their children and grandchildren.
Clean lines and natural wood elements enhance the fireplace, a focal point in a beautiful room to gather with family and friends.
The cast-iron stove on the screened porch was added for multi-seasonal use.
A space for entertaining was important, with this lower-level bar featuring timeless, rich wood and tile.
Not every day is a lake day. The golf simulator and exercise room offer options to stay active during cold or rainy weather.
With multiple generations of family, having plenty of space to spread out, unwind, and truly relax together means more quality time for the whole crew.
Outdoor spaces are essential in a lake home, and The Destin has several, offering opportunities to gather and enjoy the lake from many levels.
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Architecture Spotlight: The Beauty of Millwork
There’s something special about walking into a brand-new home that doesn’t feel brand new. It feels grounded, rich with character, and thoughtfully designed—like it’s been there for generations. That’s the quiet magic of custom millwork. Details like a signature Miller Marriott wood barrel ceiling instantly draw the eye upward, creating a sense of architectural drama while still feeling warm and inviting. The gentle curve of the wood, paired with expert craftsmanship, turns an ordinary ceiling into a true focal point—one that elevates the entire space without overwhelming it. Similarly, coffered ceilings add depth and dimension through their structured grid pattern, bringing a timeless elegance and subtle visual rhythm to any room.
Wainscoting adds another layer of timeless charm. Whether used in an entryway, dining room, or along a main hallway, it brings texture, depth, and a sense of refinement. It’s one of those features that people may not immediately name, but they feel it. It subtly frames a room and gives it a finished, intentional look.
Then there are wood ceiling beams—strong, beautiful, and endlessly versatile. They can make a large room feel cozier or give a smaller space a sense of structure and presence. Each beam tells a story of craftsmanship, from the selection of the wood to the finishing touches that highlight its natural grain.
What truly brings these elements to life is the team behind them. Miller Marriott’s skilled architects, drafters, and interior designers work closely with homeowners to transform ideas into thoughtfully executed details. From the earliest concepts to the final installation, their collaborative approach ensures that every feature bridges the gap between new construction and timeless design, turning a house into a home with character, warmth, and lasting appeal.
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Design Revival: The Banquette
Banquettes were originally a staple in grand halls where many guests gathered for dinner—which is how we got the word "banquet hall." French restaurants, in particular, embraced the legless banquette for its easy cleaning and flexible seating arrangements. Traditionally, women enjoyed the comfort and safety of the banquette, shielded from bustling waiters and often reflected in elegant wall mirrors. But today’s banquette has had a serious glow-up! No longer just sparse or strictly functional, banquettes are popping up in homes everywhere—sometimes dressed in plush velvet, other times in crisp canvas, with pillows piled high or kept sleek and simple. For designers, it’s a go-to way to create seating that’s as practical as it is luxurious. Wondering why banquettes are having such a big moment in home design? Let’s break it down:
1. The "Broken-Plan" Movement
Homeowners want their spaces to feel open, yet cozy. A banquette is a fantastic way to carve out a dining zone or a morning coffee nook—all without putting up any walls. It gives big rooms a sense of structure and intimacy, making every meal, work session, or coffee break feel special.
2. Space Optimization and Hidden Storage
When space is tight—especially in city homes or snug suburban layouts—banquettes are a clever go-to for making every inch count.
- Zero Clearance: Unlike traditional chairs, which need room to scoot in and out, banquettes can tuck right up to a wall or snuggle into a corner.
- Dual Function: Many modern banquettes have lift-up seats or built-in drawers underneath, perfect for stashing away kitchen gadgets, linens, or even board games. It’s like getting a bonus pantry, but way more stylish!
3. The "Comfort Core" Vibe
Everyone’s craving a bit more comfort these days. Banquettes channel the nostalgic feel of your favorite booth at a French bistro or classic diner.
- Tactile Variety: They’re also a designer’s dream for adding cozy textures to kitchens, which are usually filled with hard surfaces. Think plush velvets, playful patterns, or buttery leathers.
- The “Hug” Factor: With throw pillows and upholstered backs, your dining space transforms into a lounge where people actually want to hang out, chat, and linger a little longer.
If you’re planning your dream home, why not consider adding a banquette to your design? Our talented architects love collaborating with homeowners to create custom banquette seating that fits your lifestyle—whether you want a cozy breakfast nook, a vibrant family dining space, or a stylish spot to entertain friends.
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The Home Tear-down Opportunity
For many, the perfect home isn’t something you find—it’s something you create. That’s where tear-down opportunities come in. Instead of trying to make an older home fit your needs, you can start fresh and build a home designed entirely around your lifestyle.
Tearing down an existing structure opens the door to complete customization. You’re not limited by outdated layouts or finishes—you get to choose everything, from the floor plan and materials to the latest smart home features and energy-efficient systems. The result is a space that feels truly yours from day one.
See how much can be done in a day.
There are practical benefits, too. New construction typically means lower maintenance, improved energy efficiency, and modern building standards that can save you money and stress over time. With brand-new systems and materials, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing your home is built for today—and the years ahead.
Another advantage is the ability to build in established areas. Tear-down opportunities often exist in desirable neighborhoods where land is already developed, offering access to mature surroundings, convenient amenities, and a strong sense of community.
If you’ve been waiting for a home that checks every box, building new on an existing lot might be the smartest path forward. Sometimes, the best way to find your dream home is to start from the ground up. Miller Marriott brings years of experience and insight to capitalize on these opportunities.
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Development Information
Hillside – Brookfield
We are excited for our proposal for the redevelopment of the former Hillside Elementary School property, located in a vibrant and established residential area. Our vision is to create an inviting neighborhood that welcomes new homes and families while respecting the surrounding community. This project is designed to seamlessly integrate with the existing area while providing easy access to Canterbury Park, enhancing the overall neighborhood experience. The proposed development will transform the former school site into a residential neighborhood featuring 14 single-family homes with various lot sizes and home styles. The project’s design will emphasize the high-quality construction and architectural excellence for which Miller Marriott is known, ensuring a timeless and aesthetically pleasing community.
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Realty Update
Caroline Heights Model Home Our latest model home in our Caroline Heights development in the heart of Elm Grove is nearing the finishing touches. This beautiful, lifestyle-driven home features 4 bedrooms, 3 baths, and all the charming, timeless details to make it a forever home.
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Delafield Park Way - Lot 1 The last of 29 beautiful lots is available in Delafield Park Way, located off Main St. and N. Lapham Peak Rd. This land, rich in history, has transitioned to a classically charming neighborhood. It is neatly tucked away privately among mature trees, yet within walking distance of downtown Delafield, minutes from 1-94, schools, and shopping.
Credits:
Miller Marriott Architecture • Design • Build