Tour 1921 Ranch Residence in Michigan With Guesthouses, Tennis Court and Panoramic Views of the St. Joseph River

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.

Nate Paulus of R1 Property Group

Welcome to The Lodge, a remarkable riverfront estate in Buchanan, boasting over 7,400 sq ft of luxurious living space. This historic retreat on the St. Joseph River offers 11 bedrooms across a sprawling 45-acre property, with an option to expand by 45 additional acres, featuring almost 3,000 feet of river frontage. Built in a timeless architectural style, the home blends rustic charm with modern comfort, including an expansive great room with stone fireplace, multiple en-suite bedrooms, and versatile guest accommodations. Set on a scenic half-mile drive, this estate supports outdoor living with trails, courts, and close proximity to Orchard Hills Country Club. Listed at $2,695,000, The Lodge represents rare seclusion and elegance in Southwest Michigan.

Aerial View of Estate Grounds

Nate Paulus of R1 Property Group

Expansive estate surrounded by a rich tapestry of autumn foliage in vibrant shades of yellow, orange, and red. The property includes a large, rectangular green lawn bordered by mature trees. Two distinct buildings are visible: a main residence with chimneys near a curved driveway and a smaller outbuilding close to a fenced tennis court. Winding pathways connect the structures and open areas, contributing to a sense of order and elegance within the natural landscape. The proximity to a serene dark blue lake adds to the scenic charm and tranquility of the estate setting.

Waterfront Exterior View

Nate Paulus of R1 Property Group

A charming historic home nestles on a lush, wooded hillside, overlooking a serene body of water. The house presents a crisp white exterior accented with dark trim elements, such as window frames and balcony railings, enhancing its classic appeal. A prominent balcony and a series of steps descend towards a dock at the water’s edge, offering direct waterfront access. Surrounding the property, vibrant autumn foliage in shades of gold, orange, and red creates a warm, inviting atmosphere, blending nature’s beauty with the historic architectural character of the residence.

Riverfront Porch

Nate Paulus of R1 Property Group

Elevated wooden deck with natural wood plank flooring creates a rustic yet inviting atmosphere. Dark brown posts support the covered roof, providing shade and a cozy outdoor seating area. A pair of metal framed chairs with light cushions flank a round glass table with wrought iron legs, adding charm and functionality. Black metal railing and vintage-style lamp posts line the open edge, giving safety without obstructing the tranquil river view. Bare winter trees contribute an open, spacious feeling while the wood stairs blend seamlessly with the overall natural aesthetic.

Riverfront Dock Access

Nate Paulus of R1 Property Group

A concrete staircase leads down to a double-level dock by a wide river, flanked by black metal railings for safety. The upper dock is wooden with warm brown tones, while the lower platform appears to be metal grating, adding texture contrast. A classic black lamp post stands near the water, providing a vintage touch. Surrounding the steps, natural greenery and fallen autumn leaves hint at peaceful seasonal change. The river reflects soft blue sky tones, and a tree-lined far bank adds to the serene, natural aesthetic of this inviting outdoor space.

Front Yard and Facade

Nate Paulus of R1 Property Group

A large, meticulously manicured front lawn stretches toward a stately home, surrounded by lush trees and greenery. The grass is cut in alternating stripes, highlighting the care taken in landscaping. The home itself has a historic charm with a low-pitched, weathered roof featuring small dormer windows. The cream-colored walls contrast with dark shutters and trim, lending an elegant balance. Shrubs and bushes border the house, framing the entrance centered by an arched doorway. The setting reflects a peaceful, timeless American estate nestled within a natural woodland backdrop, invoking a sense of grandeur and tranquility.

Front Exterior and Patio

Nate Paulus of R1 Property Group

White stucco walls with dark trim frame multiple French doors and windows, creating a balanced and refined facade. The sloped wood shingle roof includes several dormer windows that add architectural interest and historic charm. Lush green shrubs border the concrete patio, complementing colorful flower arrangements in stone urns and window boxes. Wrought iron outdoor chairs with patterned cushions invite relaxation. The walkway leads to a manicured lawn, completing a serene and welcoming outdoor space that blends classic design with cozy, homey touches.

Back Patio and Exterior

Nate Paulus of R1 Property Group

A broad, multi-level concrete terrace serves as an elegant transition between the house and the expansive red brick patio, laid in a herringbone pattern. The home’s exterior walls are finished in light stucco with dark wooden trim around tall, narrow windows and arched French doors. The roof is steeply pitched with wooden shingles and dormer windows, evoking a historic, early 20th-century American style. Symmetrically placed boxwood shrubs and rustic wooden rocking chairs add charm and warmth. Lantern-style wall sconces bracket the doors, enhancing the period aesthetic. Mature leafless trees suggest a late fall or early spring setting.

Lakeside Exterior View

Nate Paulus of R1 Property Group

A stately historic home sits nestled among lush greenery on a sloped lot facing a peaceful lake. The structure features a cream-colored stucco facade with contrasting dark wood trim and window frames, evoking a timeless European influence. A prominent large, multi-pane bay window crowns the upper story, framed by ornamental roofing detail and flanked by classic lantern-style lighting. Below, an expansive balcony supported by decorative brackets extends along the width of the house, providing a serene outdoor space overlooking terraced wooden retaining walls. Dense mature trees surround the property, enhancing the tranquil water’s edge ambiance.

Front Exterior View

Nate Paulus of R1 Property Group

A single-story historic home with a wide facade stretches across a neatly manicured front lawn. The building exhibits a symmetrical design with a central entrance marked by a small portico with two topiary plants in urns. The door is framed by two wall-mounted lantern-style lights, while multiple French doors and windows with shutters flank either side. The roof is clad in evenly weathered shingles, with small dormer windows adding character and additional light. Landscaping includes well-trimmed bushes and simple stone benches, grounded by a stone and brick walkway leading up to the entrance. Bare trees frame the scene in early spring or late fall.

Front Porch Entrance

Nate Paulus of R1 Property Group

A welcoming front porch with a classic symmetrical design, elevated by a small staircase with black railings on both sides. The porch roof is supported by simple square white columns, contrasting with the light beige stucco exterior walls. Three windows flank a central door, all framed in dark trim that adds a bold outline. Black rocking chairs placed on the porch enhance its inviting charm. The backdrop consists of leafless trees, indicating a late autumn or early spring setting, while neatly trimmed hedges border the foundation accentuating the traditional, calm aesthetic of this historic American home.

Front Porch View

Nate Paulus of R1 Property Group

A broad front porch stretches alongside the house, with smooth brown wooden flooring and white paneled ceiling. The walls are textured in light stucco, framed by black window and door casings that contrast sharply against the white surfaces. Two classic black rocking chairs add a nostalgic charm and offer a peaceful spot to enjoy the outdoors. White pillars support the roofline, creating a rhythm of structural elements. Simple black railing lines the porch edge, bordered by lush greenery and a view of the driveway, enhancing the inviting and serene atmosphere.

Aerial View of Property Grounds

Nate Paulus of R1 Property Group

An expansive, well-maintained lawn dominates the landscape surrounding a historic home, showcasing an elegant, curved driveway leading to the main house and additional outbuildings. Mature trees, most without leaves, cast intricate shadows across the green grounds, highlighting seasonal transitions. The driveway’s layout includes a spacious loop for easy vehicle access. To the right, a tennis court with a vibrant blue and green surface is enclosed, providing a recreational amenity. Both the central residence and the secondary structures exhibit traditional architectural styles with pitched roofs and orderly garden beds lining pathways, blending functionality with classic charm.

Garden Patio Entrance

Nate Paulus of R1 Property Group

Stone-paved patio steps lead up to a set of elegant double doors painted in muted olive green with arched, screened panels allowing light and air. Flanking the doors, two matching lantern-style wall sconces offer classic charm. The house’s stucco exterior sports a warm, creamy beige shade complemented by dark trim, topped with a textured wood-shingle roof adding historic character. Manicured boxwood shrubs frame the entryway symmetrically, while a stone planter in the foreground bursts with vibrant red and purple flowers, contrasting lush greenery and neatly landscaped borders along a deep red brick path. Tall trees and yellow patio umbrellas hint at an inviting outdoor garden space beyond.

Property Aerial Overview

Nate Paulus of R1 Property Group

Aerial view highlighting a large wooded estate divided into two main parcels outlined in blue. The labeled section called “The Lodge” features a clearing with an estate structure surrounded by dense forest. Adjacent, a separate area marked as “45 + or – Additional Acres” shows more forested land, extending towards a nearby road and a circular highway loop. A river runs along the northern border, providing a natural water edge. Surrounding the estate are other green spaces, including golf course terrain on the left side, emphasizing a secluded and expansive property layout.

Living Room Spacious Area

Nate Paulus of R1 Property Group

Vaulted ceilings with exposed dark wooden beams contrast strikingly against soft cream walls, adding drama and character. A large ornamental Persian rug with intricate floral patterns centers the space over polished hardwood floors. Positioned around a large stone fireplace, the seating includes beige sofas and high-back armchairs in neutral tones, accented by a wooden table adorned with lamps and plants. Expansive windows framed in dark wood allow natural light to flood the room, highlighting classic artwork and indoor greenery. A grand piano in the corner and traditional chandeliers suspended from the ceiling amplify the room’s historic charm and elegance.

Living Room Fireplace

Nate Paulus of R1 Property Group

High vaulted ceilings with exposed dark wooden beams contrast against cream-colored walls, adding to the room’s airy and spacious feel. A large stone fireplace with a brick arch centerpiece serves as the focal point, topped by a wooden cross and decorative candles. Soft beige sofas and neutral-toned armchairs surround a wooden coffee table with an upholstered top placed on a richly patterned Persian-style rug. Large windows framed with warm wood trim bring in natural light, enhancing the cozy yet elegant ambiance. Classic chandeliers hang from the ceiling, adding a touch of vintage charm, complemented by greenery that adds freshness to the space.

Rustic Kitchen Island

Nate Paulus of R1 Property Group

Exposed brick framing a large vintage stove provides a rustic focal point, complemented by dark wooden beams overhead. The ceiling and walls are painted a vibrant green, contrasting with white cabinetry featuring black hardware. A central island with a smooth wooden countertop and red beadboard trim houses a single woven stool. Stainless steel pots hang from a ceiling rack, adding functionality and charm. The kitchen floor is wooden, matching the natural, warm theme. Windows with wooden frames allow natural light to illuminate the white subway tile backsplash and countertops, enhancing the room’s classic yet lively atmosphere.

Spacious Kitchen Interior

Nate Paulus of R1 Property Group

Expansive kitchen with a vibrant green ceiling and walls that contrast with white cabinetry and rustic dark metal hardware. The hardwood floor adds warmth and continuity throughout the space. A large central island features a butcher-block countertop with integrated sink and dishwasher, offering extra prep space and storage. Stainless steel appliances, including dual dishwashers and refrigerator, add modern utility. Multiple glass-front cabinets reveal organized dishware, enhancing the kitchen’s charm. Recessed ceiling lights illuminate the space, while a hanging pot rack with copper pots and pans adds functional decor. Large multi-pane windows provide ample natural light and frame views of mature outdoors.

Dining Room with Garden View

Nate Paulus of R1 Property Group

Long rectangular dining table seating twelve dominates the space, draped in a white tablecloth with elegant place settings. Chairs with dark wood frames and cream cushions surround the table. The walls are painted in bold vertical stripes of deep red, creating a warm, formal ambiance. Large wooden-framed windows and an arched glass door line the walls, inviting natural light and framing views of a manicured garden and greenery outside. Terracotta patterned tile flooring complements the warm tones. Brass chandeliers and matching wall sconces provide classic lighting. Golden patterned drapes add a rich texture and frame the expansive windows beautifully.

Sunroom Seating Area

Nate Paulus of R1 Property Group

Bright red walls contrast with natural wood-paneled ceiling and intricate terracotta tile flooring, creating a warm and inviting sunroom. Large windows with gray trim line one side, offering expansive views of lush greenery outside. The seating arrangement includes a light gray sofa, matching armchairs, and a single tan leather armchair centered on a neutral area rug. Simple, modern artwork adorns the walls, while a ceiling fan with leaf-shaped blades adds a touch of rustic charm. Rattan furniture and small potted plants add texture and natural elements to the space.

Sunroom Seating Area

Nate Paulus of R1 Property Group

Expansive windows with muted gray frames surround the sunroom, allowing ample natural light and scenic views of the outdoors. The terracotta-colored tile floor adds warmth and complements the deep red walls. A wooden plank ceiling with natural finish enhances the rustic charm, while an overhead ceiling fan with palm-style blades offers functionality. Furnishings include two neutral-toned wingback chairs with tufted backs, a light beige sofa with simple throw pillows, and a natural wood coffee table with black metal legs. An area rug softens the tiled floor, creating a cozy seating arrangement that balances comfort and a connection to nature.

Sitting Room with Study Nook

Nate Paulus of R1 Property Group

Black and white toile wallpaper covers the upper walls, depicting pastoral scenes and hot air balloons, paired with bold checkered fabric covering the lower walls and upholstery. The seating area includes two matching armchairs with rounded arms, upholstered in gingham plaid, facing a dark wood side table topped with a brass and black lamp. Natural light filters through sheer patterned curtains framing the window over a small writing desk with a floral upholstered chair. A chandelier with crystal accents hangs from the crown-molded ceiling, enhancing the classic, vintage ambiance. Through the doorway, a glimpse of a bedroom with a matching patterned quilt and window treatment is seen.

Bedroom Window Nook

Nate Paulus of R1 Property Group

Black and white toile wallpaper with intricate pastoral scenes covers the upper portion of the walls, while the lower half is dressed in complementary black checkered wainscoting, creating a layered textural contrast. A prominent arched window with detailed trim lets in natural light, flanked by matching toile valances and Roman shades. The bed bears a simple black frame with tall posts, quilted with a patchwork throw blending florals and checks in shades of white, black, and gray. A brass-accented black lamp stands on a small wooden bedside table. A cozy yet sophisticated vintage atmosphere is established with these harmonious patterns and classic architectural details.

Bedroom with French Doors

Nate Paulus of R1 Property Group

Soft yellow wallpaper with intricate vertical patterns adorns the walls, complementing the white crown molding and baseboards. The iron bed frame with decorative scrollwork supports a neatly made bed with white bedding and a single floral accent pillow. Two vintage-style lamps, one on each side of the bed, create a warm ambiance. A ceiling fan with dark wood blades hangs overhead. French doors with glass panes allow natural light to flood in while patterned roman shades provide subtle privacy. A white-framed mirror on the adjacent wall adds a touch of charm and elegance to the room’s historic aesthetic.

Bathroom Details

Nate Paulus of R1 Property Group

The bathroom is modestly sized with a classic, clean design. A white vanity with raised panel cabinet doors supports a dark granite countertop, contrasting with the light beige walls. Silver-toned fixtures complement the sleek, rectangular mirror framed by dual bulb lights above. Two sets of neatly folded beige towels hang on a silver towel bar above the white toilet. The bathtub and shower area is enclosed with a frosted glass sliding door, framed in polished metal. The shower tiles are white with a small soap holder embedded, while the floor features a hexagonal tile pattern, enhancing the traditional aesthetic.

Bedroom with Balcony Doors

Nate Paulus of R1 Property Group

White wooden bed with turned posts stands against vibrant blue wallpaper adorned with intricate white floral and urn patterns. Complementing the bed are matching white nightstands topped with classic lamps featuring beige shades edged in red trim. A white desk with a distressed finish and a matching chair sit opposite the bed, accompanied by a blue upholstered armchair with a subtle floral print. French doors with transom windows above open out to a balcony, allowing natural light to pour onto the light beige carpet. A ceiling fan with dark blades completes the traditional yet cozy decor.

Bathroom Vanity Area

Nate Paulus of R1 Property Group

Compact bathroom with white walls and hexagonal tile flooring gives a clean, bright appearance. A white toilet sits adjacent to a white vanity cabinet topped with dark granite countertop and an inset beige sink. Above the sink is a rectangular mirror framed in a simple design, complemented by a wall-mounted light fixture with two frosted glass shades. A towel rack on the wall holds neatly folded peach-colored towels, matching the one draped over the textured sliding glass shower door. Chrome fixtures add modern contrast to the mostly white, classic design elements.

Bedroom Interior Details

Nate Paulus of R1 Property Group

A historic bedroom with a rich red and gold vertically striped wallpaper sets an elegant, vintage tone. A dark wood four-poster bed dominates the space, topped with white bedding and a patchwork quilt. Two matching bedside tables support classic white lamps with ornate bases. A wooden vanity with a mirror and matching chair sit against one wall, paired with a beige cushioned armchair near the door. Natural light streams through large glass doors with white trim and patterned Roman shades, brightening the room’s soft beige carpet and complementing the antique aesthetic.

Bathroom Vanity and Shower

Nate Paulus of R1 Property Group

Compact bathroom with a vintage vibe, highlighted by warm wallpaper adorned with a subtle red floral pattern on a textured beige background. The vanity area includes a rich dark red granite countertop with a white undermount sink and classic chrome faucet fixtures. Above the sink, a rectangular mirror framed in polished metal sits beneath a dual-light wall sconce with frosted shades, providing soft illumination. A white cabinet below offers storage. To the side, a chrome towel rack holds beige towels matching the wallpaper tones. The shower and bathtub surround are lined with clean, glossy white square tiles and a textured glass sliding door, adding a modern touch to the classic setting.

Bedroom with Patterned Walls

Nate Paulus of R1 Property Group

A spacious bedroom dominated by rich, dark wood furniture including a striking sleigh bed with curved headboard and footboard. The walls are covered in vibrant red wallpaper featuring an ornate, repeating floral pattern with blue and beige accents, adding a bold historic charm. A ceiling fan with wooden blades hangs centrally above, offering practical lighting and airflow. On either side of the bed, antique-style dark wood nightstands hold decorative lamps with dark shades that enhance the room’s warm ambiance. A small dresser with brass handles and a mirror is positioned near a door with classic white trim. Natural light enters through tall French doors with transom windows, softened by matching fabric shades. The carpeted floor in a neutral, light tone balances the vivid wall pattern, uniting the room’s traditional and cozy feel.

Compact Bathroom Corner

Nate Paulus of R1 Property Group

A small bathroom with a white bathtub enclosed by a textured glass sliding door. The walls around the tub are lined with simple white square tiles. A beige countertop with a built-in oval sink sits atop a white cabinet, showing some wear and tear. Above the sink, a rectangular mirror is mounted with a decorative black wrought-iron light fixture holding two frosted glass lamps. The walls are painted in a neutral tan color, coordinating with the beige towels neatly hung on a shiny metal rack beside the toilet. A wicker basket on the toilet tank contains rolled dark brown towels, adding a natural, cozy touch to the minimalist design.

Living Room Seating Area

Nate Paulus of R1 Property Group

A cozy sitting area centers around a white wooden coffee table on a muted patterned rug. Three beige upholstered seats, including a sofa and two armchairs, are adorned with striped and solid cushions, enhancing comfort and charm. Walls are painted in a soft cream color, complementing warm wood flooring. Natural light streams through multiple windows, which are dressed with dark brown half-curtains for privacy while allowing outdoor views. Classic trim frames the windows, adding a subtle historic touch. The ceiling sports a grid pattern with inset panels and vents, contrasting slightly with the traditional, inviting décor below.

Dining and Living Area

Nate Paulus of R1 Property Group

A warm, inviting space combining dining and living areas seamlessly. The dining section has a solid wood octagonal table surrounded by sturdy chairs with armrests, accentuating a classic, homey feel. Adjacent to this, the living area offers plush beige sofas and armchairs placed around a white wooden coffee table on a muted patterned rug. Soft lighting from traditional lamps enhances the comfort, while large windows with dark, half-length curtains allow natural light and scenic outdoor views. The ceiling is composed of white acoustic tiles with built-in lighting and air vents, contrasting the warm wood flooring for a balanced aesthetic.

Bedroom with River View

Nate Paulus of R1 Property Group

Soft gray walls and a white paneled ceiling with grid tiles create a bright, airy atmosphere in this bedroom. A wooden bed with a carved headboard is dressed in muted gray bedding, complemented by a classic patterned pillow. Natural light floods the room through large windows dressed with white half curtains, offering a serene view of the wooded landscape and river outside. Hardwood floors enhance warmth, accented by a small geometric navy rug near the bed. Traditional wood furniture pieces, including a side table, chair with blue upholstery, and a chest of drawers, add a touch of timeless elegance. A wooden ceiling fan with a light fixture adds both function and charm.

Bathroom Vanity and Tub

Nate Paulus of R1 Property Group

White double-sink vanity with silver handles extends across one wall, topped by a neutral beige countertop. Above, a large rectangular mirror and two classic light fixtures with frosted globes provide ample illumination. Soft green walls create a calm atmosphere, contrasting with warm, dark wooden plank flooring. Adjacent to the vanity is a bathtub with white tiled surround and a chrome faucet, featuring a safety grab bar. Peach towels hang neatly on a silver towel rack beneath a framed, small floral artwork. The ceiling incorporates white acoustic tiles with ventilation grills, adding a functional yet subtle touch.

Living Room Seating Area

Nate Paulus of R1 Property Group

A warm, inviting living room features soft beige walls complemented by bright white crown molding and window trims. Natural light floods the space through wide windows adorned with white plantation shutters, enhancing the spacious, airy feel. The polished hardwood floor adds rich warmth beneath a delicate blue patterned rug. The seating includes a neutral-toned sofa paired with two beige cushioned chairs arranged near the windows. Classic brass and black lamps provide timeless accents on side tables. A dark leather armchair adds a touch of vintage elegance. Ceiling fan lighting blends function with subtle charm.

Listing Agent: Nate Paulus of R1 Property Group via Zillow 

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