Monday, August 20, 2012

Mushroom Houses

Charlevoix, Michigan is the home of some unique architecture.   Whole neighborhoods of homes feature stone exteriors, 
massive fireplaces and chimneys,
cedar shake roofs and wavy roof lines.
These homes are the signature style of Earl A. Young.


Earl A. Young grew up in Charlevoix 
and studied architecture at the University of Michigan,
although he never received a degree in architecture. 
His inspiration was Frank Lloyd Wright
 and he followed Wright's philosophy that structures
 should harmonize with their environment.



Young's legacy began in 1918 when he built
his own family home in this style of architecture
and continued until his death in 1975.


If you look closely at the photo below, 
you will notice this home features
a frosted cement chimney.


Each home was named by Young at the time it was built.
However, throughout the community they are
affectionately known as mushroom houses,
gnome homes, fairy dwellings or Hobbit houses.


These are just a sampling of the Charlevoix homes built in this style.
Can't you just imagine a fairy taking up residence in one of these?


Until next time, live and love well.


Joining 
Home and Garden Thursday at A Delightsome Life
Share Your Cup Thursday at Have A Daily Cup of Mrs. Olson
What's It Wednesday at Ivy and Elephants
You're Gonna Love It Tuesday at Kathe with an E

16 comments:

Cottage and Broome said...

You were visiting my town! I love the Earl Young houses, they are really special, Laura

Nicole said...

Those houses are so nice! You almost expect a few dwarves to pop out of the door or something! Really they are so cute!

Judy Biggerstaff said...

Thanks for sharing these. I was not aware, great little houses.

Sue said...

I love these mushroom houses to pieces! So glad you posted about them.

Tami Von Zalez said...

Great post, thank you for sharing!

Popped in from Gonna Love It.

thriftshopcommando.blogspot.com

Elaine said...

So quaint and cozy!!! I just love them! I would love to see what they look like inside. Thanks for sharing them with us!

Unknown said...

Hi, cool post - I did one on Earl's Mushroom houses a few months ago. Was only able to find 2 interior photos though!
check it out here: http://www.house-crazy.com/earl-youngs-charlevoix-michigan-mushroom-houses/
cheers,
-House Crazy Sarah

Unknown said...

Neat! I featured a post about Earl's cute mushroom houses a few months back! Only found 2 interior pics, though. Check it out here:
http://www.house-crazy.com/earl-youngs-charlevoix-michigan-mushroom-houses/
Cheers,
House Crazy Sarah

Vintage Street Designs said...

Wow...you really would feel like your living in a fairy tale in one of these homes! Hopped over from What's It Wednesday and I'm happy to be your newest follower. Would love to have you stop by for a visit! Blessings ~ Judy @ www.vintagestreetdesigns.com

Gina @ VictorianWannaBe said...

For a minute I thought that first house was the same house that we have here in town. How funny! Those are really cute houses. Around here, Mid- Missouri, we refer to it as a Hansel and Gretel house. Thanks for filling me in on the history of those houses.

Sarah said...

Well, these are charming! Thank you for introducing us to Earl Young's work.

Anonymous said...

LOve love love seeing those pictures!! fascinating really! our book club read Loving Frank...and ever since architecture has attracted me...
I am your newest follower..pls follow back if you can.

Have a Daily Cup of Mrs. Olson said...

Debra, I have heard of both of these builders. I love these houses and yes It wouldn't surprise me to see a fairy come fluttering out of anyone of these little darlings. Thanks for sharing them with Share Your Cup.
Hugs,
Jann

Anonymous said...

I had not heard of Earl Young, but have seen houses similar. These are very cute houses. Love FLR.

Yael from Home Garden Diggers

Little Susie Home Maker said...

How very charming! I would be putting little Toad ornaments in the yard!
Blessings,
Susie

Kathy said...

I have always been fascinated by the structure of houses - these are so very charming! I am quite delighted! I appreciate you sharing with Home and Garden Thursday,
Kathy

Related Posts Plugin for WordPress, Blogger...