Build a Cottage in West Michigan

If you’ve ever dreamed of building a cottage in West Michigan, you’re in the right place. We specialize in creating homes that feel like retreats: spaces that combine style, warmth, and comfort. Whether your home will overlook blue water, sit among trees, or be nestled in a small-town neighborhood, we can help you design a home that feels like a cottage getaway every day.

We call it cottagizing. This is our process for turning any floor plan into a relaxing haven filled with natural light, beautiful views, and thoughtful design details. When you build a cottage with Heartland Builders, you can expect a home that looks timeless, feels personal, and fits your lifestyle perfectly.

What Does “Cottagizing” Mean?

Building a cottage isn’t about following a single design style. It’s about capturing a feeling: the calm of morning light, the joy of color, and the peace of being surrounded by nature. That might mean adding larger windows to bring the outdoors in, choosing a bold exterior color that makes you smile, or rethinking your layout to create an airy, open interior. Every choice we make is about connection, comfort, and happiness.

Your home should do more than look beautiful. It should make you feel at home.

See How We’ve Done It:
Cottage-Style Floorplans We Love

Briar Cottage

2 beds

1 baths

0 car

1018 sq. ft

Briar Cottage

The Briar Cottage is designed for calm mornings and peaceful evenings. A soft, welcoming exterior color sets the tone, while added windows fill the home with natural light and frame outdoor views. Inside, the open layout and separated owner’s suite make it both functional and serene. This is ideal for the empty nester or a vacation get-away.

Features:

  • Large front & rear porch for outdoor living
  • Cathedral ceilings in open living space
  • Access to the rear porch from the main Bedroom
  • Spacious Kitchen with island

Dale Cottage

2 beds

1 baths

0 car

936 sq. ft

Dale Cottage

This is a fantastic home for the empty nester or a get-away in the woods. The living space is open and the modern roof lines and sloped ceilings accentuate the relaxing atmosphere.

Features:

  • Open concept Living, Dining & Kitchen
  • Sloped ceiling over open living space
  • Large Bathroom with linen closet
  • Zero-step Slab on grade construction
Ashton Front Elevation
Ashton Back Elevation

Ashton Cottagized

3 beds

2 baths

3 car

1597 sq. ft

Ashton Cottage

The Ashton Cottage is designed for calm mornings and peaceful evenings. A soft, welcoming exterior color sets the tone, while added windows fill the home with natural light and frame outdoor views. Inside, the open layout and separated owner’s suite make it both functional and serene. This is ideal for families who want a balance of privacy and togetherness.

Features:

  • Expansive windows for light and views
  • Owner’s suite on opposite side of the home for privacy
  • Large mudroom for daily organization
  • Open-concept living area for seamless flow
Kedzie Front Elevation
Kedzie Back Elevation

Kedzie Cottagized

3 beds

2 bath

2 car

2047 sq. ft

Kedzie Cottage

The Kedzie Cottage blends modern comfort with classic charm. Its bold exterior color and clean lines give it curb appeal that stands out, while the interior feels open and inviting. From the wide front porch to the panoramic windows and smart bedroom layout, this design makes it easy to live, gather, and relax in style.

Features:

  • Wall-to-wall windows for light and outdoor connection
  • Bold, contemporary cottage-style design
  • Private owner’s suite away from guest bedrooms
  • Open foyer with sightlines to the backyard
  • Spacious front porch for relaxing or entertaining

Ready to Build a
Cottage in West Michigan?

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New Lakeshore Design Studio

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