1920 Thatch House in Charlevoix, Michigan

Written By

Mathew Abraham

Updated on

Mathew Abraham

Mathew Abraham, editor of Century Homes America, brings his passion for architectural history to explore the stories behind America’s most iconic homes.

Dr. Michael Seitz/ Realtor

Home’s History

The Thatch House in Charlevoix, Michigan, originally built in 1918 by Earl Young, stands as a prime example of his unique architectural style, which draws heavily on natural forms and materials.

The home was built from the original stone walls and over the years has been meticulously transformed to preserve its storybook charm while integrating modern living standards.

Earl Young, renowned for his “mushroom houses,” designed homes that looked like they were straight out of a fantasy, characterized by their rounded edges, use of stone, and cedar shake roofs.

Its Current State

Dr. Michael Seitz/ Realtor

In 2015, the Thatch House underwent a significant transformation led by Dr. Michael Seitz, who was determined to enhance the home while retaining its historical essence.

This extensive renovation spanned three years, meticulously restoring and modernizing the house.

Today, the Thatch House features a media room, wine cellar, private patio, two original fireplaces with an additional new one on the second floor, and in-floor heating throughout the house.

Its crowning feature is a natural reed roof, hand-reaped in Europe and carefully transported to the U.S., symbolizing the home’s blend of craftsmanship and historical preservation.

Exterior Photos

Dr. Michael Seitz/ Realtor

The Thatch House is renowned for its hobbit-inspired architecture with a charming, fairy-tale exterior.

It sits nestled in the idyllic landscape of Charlevoix, near the sandy shores of Lake Michigan, which complements its storybook aesthetics.

Dr. Michael Seitz/ Realtor
Dr. Michael Seitz/ Realtor

The home’s exterior is marked by its distinctive thatched roof, rounded doorways, and custom stonework, which harmoniously blend with the natural surroundings.

Dr. Michael Seitz/ Realtor
Dr. Michael Seitz/ Realtor

Inside Photos

Dr. Michael Seitz/ Realtor

Internally, the Thatch House boasts a cozy and inviting atmosphere, with rustic elements that echo the external architecture.

Dr. Michael Seitz/ Realtor

The interiors are adorned with custom woodwork, stained glass, and intricately designed fireplaces that add to its enchanting ambiance.

Dr. Michael Seitz/ Realtor

Modern renovations have ensured that the historical charm is not only preserved but enhanced, making the Thatch House a modern home within a historical shell.

Dr. Michael Seitz/ Realtor
Dr. Michael Seitz/ Realtor
Dr. Michael Seitz/ Realtor
Dr. Michael Seitz/ Realtor
Dr. Michael Seitz/ Realtor
Dr. Michael Seitz/ Realtor
Dr. Michael Seitz/ Realtor
Dr. Michael Seitz/ Realtor
Dr. Michael Seitz/ Realtor
Dr. Michael Seitz/ Realtor
Dr. Michael Seitz/ Realtor
Dr. Michael Seitz/ Realtor
Dr. Michael Seitz/ Realtor
Dr. Michael Seitz/ Realtor
Dr. Michael Seitz/ Realtor
Dr. Michael Seitz/ Realtor

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