This striking mid-century modern home in River Hills, WI, is a rare and historically significant residence, beautifully crafted by renowned architect James G. Plunkett as his own showcase. Offering the ultimate status appeal, it balances timeless organic architecture with contemporary updates, making it perfect for someone ambitious and future-focused. Designed with clean lines, natural materials, and expansive glass walls, it seamlessly merges indoor and outdoor living, flooding open spaces with natural light and inspiring creativity. Nestled into a spacious, wooded plot and thoughtfully updated, especially its harmonious kitchen, this property is more than just a home; it’s a living testament to architectural artistry. Recently listed at $1,180,000, this one-of-a-kind estate is the pinnacle of success-oriented living.
Entryway and Hallway
Welcoming entryway leading into the heart of the home, blending rustic charm with modern transparency. Warm wood-paneled walls and ceiling pair with sleek brick flooring, offering sturdy elegance ideal for busy families. Large floor-to-ceiling windows flood the space with natural light and offer scenic outdoor views, making the hallway feel open and airy. A teal bench with pillows offers a cozy spot for putting on shoes, while a wooden console adds practical storage and a touch of sophistication. The open sightline connects directly to a spacious, family-friendly living area, perfect for gatherings or quiet moments alike.
Sunroom Walkway
Expansive floor-to-ceiling windows line this bright sunroom walkway, inviting natural light and offering panoramic views of lush greenery. Exposed wood ceilings and frames evoke rustic charm, perfectly blending the indoors with the surrounding forest. The stone-tile floor adds texture and durability, ideal for active family life. A modern bench with plush accent pillows creates a cozy resting spot, encouraging relaxation or casual conversation. Clean lines and minimalist decor foster a sense of spaciousness, while neutral tones and natural finishes ensure the space feels warm and welcoming for children and adults alike, making it a versatile family retreat.
Open Kitchen Island
Spacious open kitchen designed with a family-friendly atmosphere in mind, featuring a large marble-topped island perfect for casual meals and social gatherings. The natural wood cabinetry and ceiling beams add warmth, while the expansive windows and glass doors flood the area with light and offer serene views of the surrounding forest. Comfortable barstools at the island encourage family interaction, and the ample cabinetry provides plenty of storage. Subtle brick accents and sleek built-in appliances bring a modern touch, while the open layout ensures plenty of room for kids to play or family to cook together. The earthy color palette ties all elements together harmoniously.
Open Living Area
A spacious open-concept living area features a breathtaking wooden vaulted ceiling with dramatic beams radiating from the center, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The room seamlessly incorporates a dining space, cozy sitting area, and modern kitchen with a large island and elegant pendant lighting. Family-friendly details include ample floor space for gatherings, a soft area rug beneath the dining table, and comfortable seating throughout. The décor emphasizes natural wood tones, mid-century modern furniture, and subtle pops of color with blue accent chairs. Expansive windows along one wall fill the space with natural light, connecting the indoors to the lush outdoors.
Kitchen Island and Seating
This inviting kitchen features a large marble-topped island perfect for family gatherings and casual meals. Warm wood tones cover the cathedral ceiling and extend down to wide-plank floors, adding rustic charm. The brick accent wall and large window infuse natural light and character, while built-in stainless steel appliances offer a modern touch. Comfortable mid-century style wooden barstools line the island, creating a welcoming space for both kids and adults. Soft, ambient lighting from contemporary fixtures and expansive counter space make this kitchen ideal for both entertaining and daily family life, blending functionality with timeless style.
Kitchen and Entryway
Warm wood tones and a spacious layout create an inviting kitchen and entryway, blending rustic charm with modern convenience. Exposed wooden beams accentuate the vaulted ceiling while light oak floors enhance the room’s natural brightness. The kitchen features sleek marble countertops, custom cabinetry, and built-in appliances seamlessly integrated for a clean look. Large windows allow plenty of daylight, connecting the indoors with the lush greenery outside. A cozy breakfast bar encourages family gatherings and easy supervision of children nearby. Soft lighting fixtures and brick accents on the walls add to the comforting, family-friendly ambiance of this welcoming heart of the home.
Open Living and Dining
A spacious open-concept interior seamlessly blends living, dining, and kitchen areas. The vaulted wood ceiling with exposed beams adds warmth and architectural interest, while natural light floods the space through large glass doors. The cozy sectional and plush area rug create a comfortable gathering area for family time. The mid-century modern dining table seats six, set on a textured rug for visual separation. The kitchen features sleek cabinetry, a breakfast bar, and brick accent walls, ideal for cooking and entertaining. Soft, neutral tones mixed with wood and pops of green provide a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere.
Open Dining Area
An inviting open-concept dining area seamlessly connects to the kitchen and living spaces, highlighted by soaring timbered ceilings and expansive floor-to-ceiling glass doors that overlook a serene wooded deck. The natural wood tones, brick accents, and neutral color palette evoke warmth and comfort, fostering a family-friendly atmosphere perfect for gatherings. A large wooden table anchors the space atop a soft geometric rug, surrounded by mid-century modern chairs for casual elegance. Cozy touches, such as plush throw pillows and chic lighting, combine with the abundance of natural light to create a welcoming environment ideal for both everyday living and entertaining.
Reading Nook Retreat
A cozy corner designed for relaxation, this reading nook features floor-to-ceiling windows that provide a tranquil view of the wooded outdoors and flood the space with natural light. The mid-century modern aesthetic is highlighted by clean-lined wooden shelves and cabinetry, seamlessly blending with the rustic wood-paneled walls and ceiling. Soft blue armchairs create an inviting seating area on a plush white rug, perfect for families to unwind or share stories. Thoughtful decorative touches, like vases, plants, and artwork, add personality, while the open layout and low furniture encourage gathering and easy movement for both kids and adults alike.
Living Room Details
A spacious living room showcases rustic elegance with an impressive wood-beamed vaulted ceiling and natural brick fireplace as the centerpiece. Warm wood paneling and abundant natural light create a cozy atmosphere, perfect for gatherings. A large sectional sofa, plush with throw pillows, adds comfort and accommodates family or guests, complemented by a soft area rug underfoot. Tasteful, nature-inspired artwork brings character to the walls, and open shelving beside the fireplace offers additional seating or display options. Neutral tones are enriched by stone, wood, and inviting textiles, resulting in a welcoming, family-friendly retreat ideal for relaxation and entertaining.
Open Living Area
A stunning open-concept living area with a vaulted wooden ceiling and exposed beams creates a warm and inviting ambiance. The spacious layout seamlessly connects the living room, kitchen, and dining space, making it perfect for family gatherings. Comfortable sectional sofas with textured throw pillows and plush blankets invite relaxation, while a large patterned area rug anchors the space. The kitchen features natural wood cabinetry and sleek appliances, complemented by a large island with ample seating. Abundant windows allow natural light to flood the area and provide scenic views of greenery outside, encouraging connection with nature and plenty of room for family activities.
Open Living Area
This open living area boasts a dramatic vaulted wooden ceiling with exposed beams, giving the space a warm, rustic ambiance perfect for family gatherings. Natural light floods through expansive floor-to-ceiling windows, offering serene views of the surrounding greenery. A plush sectional sofa and cozy armchair are arranged around a classic brick fireplace, inviting relaxation. The area transitions to a dining space with a wooden table and modern chairs, ideal for meals or homework sessions. Soft rugs, elegant shelving, and layered textures create a welcoming, kid-friendly space with charm and functionality, while natural wood tones provide unity and harmony throughout.
Living Room Details
Cathedral wood ceilings, exposed beams, and floor-to-ceiling windows create a breathtaking, airy atmosphere in this spacious living room. The warm wood tones are complemented by a blend of soft neutrals in the furniture and pops of turquoise blue, offering a fresh yet cozy vibe. A central brick fireplace serves as a welcoming focal point, perfect for family gatherings. The layout provides ample seating including a plush sofa, armchairs, and a large dining nook, supporting both relaxation and entertaining. Built-in shelving and decorative plants add personality, while the open flow and expansive natural light make it family-friendly and inviting.
Master Bedroom Retreat
A spacious master bedroom radiates warmth with its striking wood-planked cathedral ceiling and exposed beams. Natural light pours in through generous windows, accentuating the soft mauve walls and pale wood floors. The centerpiece king bed features crisp white linens, perfect for relaxation. The cozy lounge area includes two tufted black leather sofas and a patterned area rug, inviting family movie nights. Artistic wall decor and mirrors add personality while the open floor plan leaves plenty of room to move and play, making it family-friendly. A blend of modern and rustic styles creates an inviting, tranquil oasis for restful living.
Master Bedroom Centerpiece
Warm, natural wood finishes and a striking vaulted ceiling create an inviting atmosphere in this master bedroom. Soft mauve walls pair beautifully with wide plank wood flooring, setting a cozy yet airy scene. A generously sized bed with plush, layered pillows and a textured throw blanket sits at the heart of the room, flanked by two white nightstands, each topped with a modern table lamp and curated decor. Ample natural light filters through large windows, enhancing the serene ambiance. Spacious pathways make this layout family-friendly, and the soothing color palette ensures both style and comfort for daily living.
Master Bedroom Retreat
A spacious master bedroom boasts a stunning vaulted wood ceiling with exposed beams, creating a warm and cozy atmosphere. The soft mauve walls complement the natural wood tones, while plush area rugs and modern leather armchairs add comfort and sophistication. Accents of teal and geometric throw pillows provide playful family-friendly elements, and a round ottoman invites relaxation. The sleeping area features crisp white bedding and a contemporary nightstand, flanked by matching lamps for a balanced look. Open access to an en-suite bathroom and ample closet space offer convenience, making this an inviting, functional sanctuary for both rest and family moments.
Living Room Retreat
A spacious living room retreat featuring soaring exposed wood ceilings and expansive floor-to-ceiling windows that bring lush forest views indoors. The room is anchored by luxurious black tufted leather armchairs atop a subdued patterned area rug, creating a sophisticated yet comfortable gathering space. Elegant accent details like the contemporary white sculptural side table and striking modern artwork add a touch of personality. The entertainment area is designed for family time, with a large wall-mounted television and playful, cozy textures such as a faux fur pillow. The neutral color palette ensures a welcoming atmosphere versatile for all ages.
Master Bedroom Retreat
A striking master bedroom blends comfort and creativity, featuring a vaulted wooden ceiling with exposed beams that radiate warmth and character. Soft blush walls complement wide-plank hardwood floors, while large windows invite natural light and woodland views, enhancing the tranquil atmosphere. The layout is open and airy, incorporating a cozy bed with layered neutral linens, a chic leather chaise for reading or relaxation, and a tufted leather sofa for lounging. Thoughtfully curated artwork adds vibrant personality and visual interest, making the space appealing for families who value style and comfort. Subtle metallic accents and geometric mirrors add a modern touch.
Master Bedroom Retreat
A spacious master bedroom featuring a striking vaulted wood ceiling with exposed beams that create a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. The room’s soft mauve walls pair perfectly with light wood flooring, offering a modern yet inviting palette ideal for families. A plush area rug defines a comfortable sitting area with two deep, tufted leather armchairs and a circular ottoman draped with a faux fur throw, providing a perfect spot for relaxation or reading. The sleeping area boasts a queen-sized bed layered in crisp white linens, complemented by matching nightstands and contemporary lamps for balanced symmetry and style.
Living Room Retreat
This warm, family-friendly living room features expansive floor-to-ceiling windows that bring the lush wooded outdoors inside, ideal for enjoying serene views year-round. The space boasts a stunning vaulted wooden ceiling with exposed beams, creating a cozy, rustic atmosphere perfect for gatherings. Classic tufted leather sofas invite relaxation, complemented by a soft, textured ottoman and a cozy throw for added comfort. The light-colored area rug grounds the seating area and softens the wooden floor. A bold, modern zebra painting adds a playful, artistic touch, balancing the natural materials and integrating personality into this inviting retreat.
Bedroom Entryway
Warm wood flooring extends throughout this inviting bedroom entryway, enhanced by soft mauve walls that create a calming atmosphere. The open-beam wooden ceiling and rich trim accents add architectural depth and a natural, rustic charm. An oversized, modern zebra-inspired artwork acts as a dramatic focal point, infusing the area with a bold, creative flair. The louvered closet doors offer practical storage, perfect for family living, while the view into the adjoining bathroom enhances the sense of connection and convenience. Natural light pours in from adjacent windows, making this space both welcoming and functional for daily routines.
Bathroom Vanity Corner
A warm and inviting bathroom uses rustic design elements to create a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere. Natural stonework and wood paneling pair harmoniously, bringing the outdoors in and providing texture and visual interest. The large mirror above the crisp white sink countertop reflects light and adds spaciousness, while bronze fixtures introduce a modern touch. Earth-toned ceramic tile around the tub area ensures easy cleaning and durability for busy households. A window with a subtle shade lets in natural light but preserves privacy, creating a serene spot for winding down. The combination of natural materials and practical layout enhances everyday comfort.
Hallway Closet Space
This inviting hallway features spacious louvered yellow closet doors, ideal for extra storage or seasonal items, making it practical for a growing family. The warm hues of the brick accent wall and the wood-paneled ceiling create a cozy, rustic ambiance, while modern circular wall sconces offer both function and style. The soft beige carpeting underfoot provides a comfortable, safe pathway that’s perfect for children. The combination of textured materials, including painted doors, exposed brick, and warm woods, offers a pleasant visual contrast that feels both homey and contemporary, ensuring the space feels welcoming and thoughtfully designed.
Family Room Retreat
This spacious family room features a cozy layout perfect for gatherings and relaxation. A rich caramel leather Chesterfield sofa anchors the seating area, complemented by two plush, modern swivel chairs. Neutral-toned walls and carpeting create a bright, serene atmosphere, while pops of greenery and a round mirror add warmth and life. A large flat-screen TV sits above a mid-century modern media console, ideal for family movie nights. Easy stair access leads up to other living areas, and an adjacent dining nook with a modern chandelier and wood accents offers a perfect setting for meals and activities, making this space inviting for all ages.
Cozy Bedroom Retreat
Warm natural wood lines the ceiling, creating a welcoming contrast to the soft white walls and neutral carpeting that run throughout this tranquil bedroom. Large windows fill the space with light and provide a peaceful view of the forest outdoors, perfect for nature lovers and families valuing serene mornings. The inviting twin bed is dressed in crisp white linens, accented by a pastel throw and matching cushions for a gentle pop of color. A cozy reading chair makes for an ideal storytime spot, and matching wooden side tables with contemporary lamps add a touch of mid-century modern charm.
Guest Bedroom Details
A cozy guest bedroom combines modern comfort with warm character, featuring a natural wood plank ceiling that adds rustic appeal. The walls are painted a soothing off-white, beautifully contrasted by bold red closet doors that create a lively focal point. The bed is neatly made with white quilted bedding and plush pillows, inviting relaxation, while contemporary lamps on mid-century wooden side tables provide soft lighting for reading or unwinding. A vibrant vintage poster adds a playful artistic touch above the bed. The large window floods the space with natural light, and the soft carpet makes the room both safe and family-friendly.
Cozy Bedroom Retreat
A welcoming and serene bedroom designed with comfort in mind, featuring a natural wood plank ceiling that brings warmth and character to the space. Soft neutral carpeting creates a plush underfoot feel, while contemporary black nightstands with blue ceramic lamps provide stylish, functional lighting on either side of the bed. The bed is dressed in textured white linens and blue accent pillows, creating a crisp, inviting look. A large window invites lush woodland views, filling the room with natural light. An upholstered armchair in the corner forms a cozy reading nook, making this space ideal for relaxation for all family members.
Cozy Bedroom Corner
This inviting bedroom features a fresh, family-friendly design with a comfortable single bed dressed in crisp white linens and accent throw pillows. The space is brightened by natural light streaming through a window, offering views of lush greenery. Warmth is added by the wooden plank ceiling and coral-colored closet doors, which provide both style and ample storage. Mid-century modern touches are evident in the matching bedside tables and unique table lamp. Soft carpeting underfoot ensures a cozy atmosphere, while the neutral wall color keeps the room calm and versatile, perfect for a child, guest, or teen seeking relaxation.
Bathroom Vanity Area
A cozy, thoughtfully designed bathroom featuring a striking blue vanity with a marble countertop and brass fixtures, offering a modern touch to the space. The golden mustard walls create a warm, inviting atmosphere, while a sleek wooden shelf above the toilet provides both decorative charm and practical storage for family essentials. A well-lit mirror and overhead light fixture lend brightness, complemented by simple potted plants for a touch of greenery. The room’s layout maximizes efficiency, and the walk-in shower with sliding glass doors ensures easy accessibility, making this bathroom both family-friendly and visually appealing.
Dining Nook and Lounge
A cozy dining nook features a round wooden table surrounded by four modern, camel-toned leather chairs set atop a neutral patterned area rug. The adjacent wall, painted in a warm beige, is enhanced by a floating shelf displaying botanical framed art and decorative accents, adding a personalized, homey touch. Soft lighting from a stylish contemporary chandelier creates an inviting atmosphere for family meals or board games. The open-plan design seamlessly connects to a bright, spacious living area with plush seating, ensuring easy supervision of children and promoting togetherness. Light earthy tones and natural wood elements make the space both modern and welcoming.
Home Office Nook
A cozy home office nook blends mid-century modern elegance with practical comfort, making it perfect for family life or quiet work-from-home days. A sweeping wood plank ceiling adds architectural warmth, while large windows fill the space with natural light. Neutral walls serve as a soothing backdrop for a striking teal armchair and vintage area rug, bringing in pops of color and texture. The minimalist desk is family-friendly for homework or creative projects, and a plush chair ensures comfort for extended use. Unique pendant lighting, modern art, and greenery atop a classic dresser complete the fresh, inviting atmosphere.
Home Office Nook
A cozy home office area with a vaulted wood-paneled ceiling creates a warm, inviting atmosphere, perfect for productivity and relaxation. Neutral wall tones pair with contemporary furniture, including a plush, tufted chair and a sleek black writing desk by a sunlit window. Natural light streams in, illuminating an intricately patterned area rug that anchors the space and adds a vibrant touch. Family-friendly features include a comfortable workspace that’s both functional for adults and provides ample visibility for keeping an eye on children. Thoughtfully chosen decor, greenery, and a statement pendant light enhance the sophisticated and welcoming ambiance.
Upstairs Hallway
A spacious upstairs hallway features natural wood paneling along one wall, adding warmth and character to the space, while the matching wood ceiling gives a cozy cabin feel. Light-colored walls and flooring brighten the corridor, making it welcoming and family-friendly. A sturdy metal and wood railing ensures safety at the staircase, ideal for families with children. Modern globe light fixtures line the wall, providing ample illumination. Doors with a rich wood finish offer access to adjacent rooms, while the overall layout promotes easy movement throughout the home and a unified design that feels both modern and timeless.
Hallway Details
This inviting hallway features warm wooden flooring and a unique wood plank ceiling that adds a rustic touch. Neutral beige walls create a calming environment, complemented by a pegboard for flexible organization, a practical feature for busy family life. The space is well-lit with modern wall sconces, and the touch of color from a yellow door brings subtle vibrancy to the corridor. Wainscoting along the lower half of the far wall adds depth and character, blending both functionality and classic design. With multiple doors leading off the hallway, the layout is convenient for families, keeping rooms accessible and connected.
Woodland Deck Retreat
This inviting deck area, wrapped in mature trees, seamlessly blends the indoors with the outdoors through expansive sliding glass doors. The spacious wooden flooring is ideal for gatherings or quiet family moments, offering plenty of space for children to play safely or for outdoor seating arrangements. The warm wood tones of the deck and home exterior create a cozy, natural ambiance that feels both rustic and modern. Subtle string lighting above adds a soft glow for evening relaxation. Surrounded by lush greenery, this deck is perfect for enjoying fresh air, peaceful views, and backyard activities in a serene, family-friendly environment.
Garden Walkway
A beautiful wooded garden wraps around the exterior of this home, creating a tranquil, family-friendly oasis. Lush greenery and mature trees provide natural shade and privacy, while landscaped beds and winding mulch paths connect the space. A charming wooden bridge invites exploration and play, adding character and a touch of whimsy. The home’s architectural design features clean lines, large windows, and a blend of brick, wood, and neutral paneling, blending harmoniously with the surrounding landscape. This outdoor haven is perfect for leisurely strolls or quality family time surrounded by nature in every season.
Listing Agent: HIGHMARK Real Estate – Jay Schmidt Group* of Keller Williams Realty-Milwaukee North Shore via Zillow
