For Steve and Kara McCauley, the essence of home is steeped in character and history. The couple, who both hail from Michigan, found their ideal residence in Rochester, Minnesota: a reproduction of a 1760 Deerfield, Massachusetts, colonial. With two children and their beloved pets—Beethoven, Wolfgang, and Chopin—they have transformed the house into a warm sanctuary that harmonizes family life, music, and craftsmanship.
Finding the Perfect Fit
The McCauleys were discerning in their search for a home. Kara, a physician at Mayo Clinic, and Steve, a carpenter-painter and Realtor, spent three years exploring the area before discovering their “forever” home. “Historic homes have so much character and details that you simply can’t find in new homes,” Steve explained. Their chosen residence features striking elements, including a front door modeled after the Parson John Williams house and four unique fireplaces that add to its charm.
Kara noted the significance of these features. “My favorite is the rustic fireplace in the back parlor, which we jokingly call the ‘walk-in fireplace’ because of its height and size,” she shared.
Life in the Woods
The couple affectionately refers to their home as “Camp Deerfield,” reflecting its serene, wooded surroundings. Despite being only a few miles from the bustling Mayo Clinic, it offers a tranquil retreat reminiscent of the forests in western Massachusetts. “We love to travel, but don’t feel the need to escape. We just walk out our door, and it’s really quiet and beautiful,” Steve said.
Their professional backgrounds have heavily influenced their approach to the home’s design. Steve, having seen many renovation mistakes throughout his career, emphasizes thoughtful planning. “We don’t chase trends. When we renovate, we always ask if it fits with the character of the house and if it will be desirable long into the future,” he explained.
Steve has taken on many projects himself, handling finish carpentry, painting, and decor. “I enjoy the challenge of working within a budget and finding unique, inexpensive items,” he said.
Creating Lasting Memories
Looking ahead, the McCauleys plan to construct a tiny log cabin on their property using wood from the hundreds of ash trees they have lost. However, their primary focus remains on enjoying the space they have cultivated.
A typical day in their household involves outdoor activities, whether exploring the woods or spending time in their yard. The family enjoys gathering around the kitchen island to cook together, followed by meals in their inviting dining room.
Summer nights are particularly magical for the McCauleys, filled with fireflies and the calls of owls. Yet, it is the autumn and winter seasons that they cherish the most. “Our house really shines from Halloween to Christmas. We host a haunted woods for friends and, during the holidays, it feels like a postcard,” Kara noted. Steve adds that he constructs an ice rink during winter, allowing the family to enjoy skating under string lights.
Beyond its physical structure, the McCauleys’ home embodies love and connection. “You can just feel that warmth when you walk in. I felt it the first time I stepped in during an open house in December 2019,” Steve recalled.
The house has witnessed significant moments in their lives, particularly during the early years of the COVID-19 pandemic. From family meals to music sessions and relaxing weekends in the sunroom, it has become a backdrop for cherished memories and deeper familial bonds.
As the McCauleys continue to shape their home, it stands not only as a residence but as a testament to their commitment to family, craftsmanship, and the beauty of history.
