Michigan’s fairytale Mushroom House: A real labor of love

Waking up in Charlevoix, Michigan’s latest mushroom house will be sure to put a smile on your face each and every morning. 

Intricate renovation techniques and timber work have transformed this historic home into a seven-bedroom masterpiece, creating a cozy ambience that oozes charm and character. 

The Thatch House—as it is now known—rose from the original stone walls set by renowned Michigan architect Earl Young, who was recognized internationally for creating storybook-style homes in the area.

This property was built as his first home in 1918. However, it did not originally encompass Young's developing hobbit-home style. The new mushroom house design was conceived on a napkin by the current owner in 2012—and took nearly two years to finalize.

The updated thatched roof was a real labor of love, carried out by a master thatcher during one of recent history’s coldest winters under daunting conditions, using the finest natural thatch that was hand-reaped in Europe.

While the exterior is a true sight to behold, the inside of the home continues the quaint, rustic feel, with an abundance of befitting features and exposed wooden beams. Exposed stone is also utilized to great effect in many of the rooms, adding to the property’s distinctive flair.

Young designed and built 31 buildings in the Charlevoix area over his 52-year career. He is credited with helping raise the town’s profile and transform it into a busy summer vacation destination. Tours are available that showcase Young’s work in the area.

The Thatch House is offered for sale at $4,500,000 and represented by Nate Granata of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Michigan Real Estate.