Family Expands Dream Home in New York as Baby Arrives

UPDATE: In a remarkable journey of resilience and adaptability, Dimitri Brand and Nelly Mecklenburg have transformed their home-building dreams into reality in Hillsdale, New York. After years of moving across cities, the couple has officially expanded their home to accommodate their growing family.

Just last week, Brand, 36, and Mecklenburg, 36, unveiled an 850-square-foot addition to their original structure, a decision driven by the arrival of their nearly one-year-old son. This expansion marks a significant milestone in their ongoing project, which began with the purchase of a 10-acre lot in 2019 for just $32,000.

The couple’s journey is a testament to the power of community and self-sufficiency. Working primarily with friends and relying on their own skills, they have managed to keep construction costs to about $325,000. “This house has the capacity to be there for the different phases of our lives,” Brand stated.

Initially, their construction efforts began with a 100-square-foot platform in 2019, which served as a rustic retreat while they planned their future home. Over the years, they have built a compact living area, complete with a 475-square-foot basement office and a 450-square-foot living space above. The innovative use of local materials, including hemlock siding and oak flooring from trees they themselves felled, reflects their commitment to sustainability.

In spring 2021, the couple added essential infrastructure, such as electricity and plumbing, while maintaining flexibility in their design. The home features a wood stove and twin-wall polycarbonate panels that allow for natural heating—adaptations that suit their evolving lifestyle.

As they embraced the joys of parenthood, the couple recognized the need for more space. The new addition not only expands their kitchen but provides room for future growth. “Before, it was really a kitchenette, with very little counter space,” Brand explained. “Now, we end up spending most of our time as a family there,” Mecklenburg added.

The couple’s approach to construction reflects a broader trend among families seeking to create personalized, adaptable homes. With plans for a primary suite and more living space, Brand and Mecklenburg are setting a precedent for future homeowners looking to balance practicality with personal needs.

As they complete this latest phase of their home, the couple has paused further construction for a year, savoring their accomplishment. With their sights set on future expansions, they are poised to navigate the challenges of family life with a home that grows alongside them.

Stay tuned for more updates on this inspiring family as they continue to build not just a house, but a legacy.