Family Expands Home as They Welcome New Baby, Costs $325,000

UPDATE: A couple in Hillsdale, New York is transforming their home to accommodate their growing family, recently completing a new addition as they prepare for parenthood. Dimitri Brand and Nelly Mecklenburg, who tied the knot in spring 2023, have invested approximately $325,000 into their evolving home since purchasing the land for $32,000 in 2019.

The couple, who have lived in several cities including New Haven and Cambridge, sought a permanent place to grow together. They initially constructed a **100-square-foot** platform in 2019, allowing them to experience their land through the seasons. Their first major build—a compact home completed in 2021—features a **475-square-foot** basement serving as Brand’s office and a **450-square-foot** living space above.

With a focus on sustainability, they used local materials including hemlock and oak flooring crafted from trees they had to remove for construction. The home’s design integrates natural light and warmth with twin-wall polycarbonate panels, enhancing energy efficiency.

Now, with their first child nearly one year old, the couple has expanded their living space by constructing an **850-square-foot** addition, although they are currently utilizing only **200 square feet**. This new area features a full kitchen, allowing for family gatherings and holiday meals, a significant upgrade from their previous kitchenette.

“Before, it was really a kitchenette, with very little counter space,” Brand shared. “Now, we end up spending most of our time as a family there,” added Mecklenburg, emphasizing the importance of adaptability in their home’s design.

Despite the challenges of self-construction, the couple has managed to keep costs down through DIY efforts and assistance from friends. Their home reflects a commitment to flexibility, designed to meet their family’s evolving needs.

As they look to the future, they plan to finish the remaining space based on their growing family requirements. Their story highlights the emotional journey of building a home that adapts to life changes, resonating with many who seek stability amid life’s uncertainties.

This developing story showcases not just a home but a testament to family, perseverance, and the dream of creating a lasting legacy. Keep an eye on Brand and Mecklenburg as they continue to shape their space to fit their life’s journey.