Designing a Legacy Home with a Long-Term Approach

Thoughtful design decisions ensure a legacy home endures for generations with timeless style.

December 24, 2025

Caren Kurlander,

In the dining area, a pendant by Capital Lighting Fixture Company hangs above a table and chairs by RH. Cavanaugh selected engineered hickory flooring by Carlisle Wide Plank Floors for its authentic look. | Photo: Krafty Photos

In building a house on their property in Alta, Wyoming, a couple made decisions on everything—from the floor plan to the materials—with future generations in mind. “Legacy was our inspiration,” says the homeowner.

A Long-Term Outlook

“Furnishings are so personal, and they can always be changed,” says interior designer Julie Cavanaugh, “but the elements attached to the building envelope are going to have the longest life.” With that in mind, she turned to custom millwork and classic pendant lighting for the kitchen, a natural stone tub for the primary bath and long-wearing engineered flooring throughout the main spaces.

“The things that we designed that are going to live in perpetuity with the property were done with forethought for longevity in both enjoyment and durability,” she says. Made to Last In creating a structure that would stand the test of time, durable materials and careful construction were paramount.

Cedar used for exterior siding is naturally resistant to rot, and Montana moss stone creates an impermeable surface against snow and moisture. “This was going to be a legacy home, so the homeowners took a lot of care in the details because they knew this house was going to outlive all of us,” says builder Todd Witek.

Flexibility First

Having a flexible floor plan that would accommodate the owners’ lifestyle today and generations to come was top of mind. The layout—with the main public spaces, primary bedroom and en suite guest bedroom on the upper level, and a large family room, library, bunk room and en suite guest bedroom downstairs—was created with comfort and versatility in mind. “We designed it from the inside out with the idea of making it a legacy house,” says the homeowner.

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