Description
Project Spotlight: The Log Cabin at Murphy’s Creek
A Timeless Legacy Built for Modern Living in Charlottesville
At Spear Builders, our passion for building runs deep—from crafting cutting-edge modern homes to preserving the rich heritage of Virginia’s architectural past. This project—the Log Cabin at Murphy’s Creek, completed in September 2017—stands as a proud testament to our craftsmanship. Located in the serene landscapes of Charlottesville, Virginia, this home is a beautiful fusion of rustic charm and high-end, energy-efficient construction.
This project was more than a custom build; it was a meticulous undertaking to create a home with a sense of history while integrating every modern comfort. At 4,148 square feet across three floors, it was designed for a family lifestyle, with a focus on both beauty and durability.
1. Low-Maintenance Exterior: Designed for Lasting Beauty
The exterior of the Log Cabin at Murphy’s Creek was built to be both beautiful and resilient. The timeless log structure is complemented by low-maintenance, high-quality materials, ensuring the home’s beauty endures for decades with minimal upkeep. This project is a great example of our expertise in historic preservation and restoration. Key features include:
- Hardi Plank Siding and Stone Veneer: A durable and stylish combination that adds to the home’s rustic appeal.
- Standing Seam Metal Roof: A striking and long-lasting roof choice, known for its longevity and performance.
- A Two-Car Side-Load Garage: A 24′ x 24′ garage with an insulated door, opener, and keypad offers convenience and protection for vehicles.
- Thoughtful Details: From the concrete front and rear porches to the professionally landscaped yard and two hose bibs, every detail was considered for both curb appeal and functionality.
2. Appealing Interior: Where Rustic Meets Refined
The interior of this home was designed to be warm, inviting, and highly functional, with 8-foot-high ceilings on both the first and second floors. The design beautifully showcases the classic cabin aesthetic while featuring luxurious, modern amenities.
First Floor (1,546 SF): The heart of the home features an open foyer with hardwood flooring, a spacious living room centered around a magnificent masonry fireplace, and a dining room perfect for family gatherings. The exposed floor joist ceiling adds to the rustic charm, while a butler’s pantry, first-floor laundry room, and a powder room add modern convenience.
A Chef’s Dream Kitchen: The large kitchen is a masterpiece of custom design, boasting custom cabinetry, granite countertops, and a full suite of high-end stainless steel appliances, including a downdraft gas range and a Miele Plumbed Whole Bean Coffee System. To see how other projects approach these elements, take a look at our article on 10 design features that add value to your custom home.
The Main Suite: The first-floor main suite offers a private retreat with hardwood flooring, two closets, and a main bath featuring a double-bowl vanity with a solid surface top and a spacious, walk-in ceramic shower with a glass door.
3. Second Floor & Finished Basement: Spaces for Family and Hobbies
The second floor is dedicated to family and guests. At 1,056 square feet, it features three bedrooms with hardwood flooring, a hallway, and two full bathrooms, ensuring comfort and privacy for everyone. A second laundry hookup provides added convenience.
The 1,546 square-foot finished basement is a true bonus, offering incredible versatility:
- An Office: A dedicated workspace with two full-size windows and a glass wall.
- A Hobby Area: A perfect space for creative projects.
- A Recreation Area with Bar: An ideal spot for entertaining guests or unwinding.
- A Full Bathroom: With a walk-in ceramic shower and a vanity cabinet.
This home is a fantastic example of a custom home vs. a production home, where every detail from the floorplan to the finishes is designed with intention.
4. Structural Integrity & Energy Efficiency
Built to last, this home features top-tier structural components, including an engineered wood roof and I-joist floor systems, Advantech sub-floors, and a steel-reinforced concrete foundation. This commitment to quality is a hallmark of our new home construction process.
The home’s energy-saving and “green” values are a cornerstone of our philosophy:
- High-Quality Insulation: R38 in the ceiling and R16 in the exterior walls ensures comfort and lower energy costs. Learn more about insulation and building codes in our post on Virginia spray foam insulation.
- Dual-Zone Heating System: A dual-fuel 90+ system with a heat pump and air conditioning provides precise climate control.
- Insulated Doors and Windows: Fiberglass exterior doors and insulated, Low-E, double-hung windows with grilles-between-the-glass add to the home’s efficiency.
This Log Cabin at Murphy’s Creek is a testament to our commitment to blending classic design with modern construction principles, creating a home that is as beautiful as it is durable and efficient.
Ready to start a project?
A property with this much history and character is a rare find. It demonstrates our ability to deliver exceptional quality across a wide range of projects.
If you are looking for a builder who can respect the past while building for the future, or are interested in a custom-built home on your own land, we invite you to discuss your vision with our team. Financing your custom home is also a key step, and we can guide you through the process.
- Contact Spear Builders today to schedule a consultation and learn more about our comprehensive building services.
