The dream of owning a custom-built home often goes hand in hand with the dream of living in harmony with the natural landscape, whether it’s nestled in the mountains, overlooking a glistening lake, or surrounded by peaceful woodlands. The beauty of log home living lies not only in the craftsmanship of the structure but in the daily experience of connecting with the outdoors.
At Beaver Mountain, we believe the key to creating a home that feels truly at one with its surroundings is thoughtful, site-specific design. That’s why our process begins with a deep understanding of your property and how you plan to live on it—not just today, but for decades to come.
Site Specific Design 
John Lanner, a seasoned Project Designer at Beaver Mountain, has spent nearly 30 years walking properties with clients to understand their vision and the unique characteristics of the land. “Creating a custom design that truly enhances the site and flows well with the surroundings is a key factor in a successful project,” John explains.
During a site visit, John walks the land alongside the client, observing everything from sunlight patterns and compass orientation to natural focal points and access routes. He listens closely to how the family envisions using the home and the surrounding property.
“These are the kinds of things that can’t be fully understood from photos or surveys,” John says. “Being there in person makes all the difference.”
The Valley View Log Home
A great example of this approach is the Valley View project, which posed some unique challenges right from the start. “It may have been a very challenging site to walk on our first visit—with over two feet of snow—but it made a huge difference in how I guided them through the design process,” John recalls. By strategically locating the main living spaces to take full advantage of the stunning views and placing the garage at the rear for a cleaner approach, John was able to transform the client’s vision into a home that feels deeply connected to its surroundings. “Walking through the front door and seeing through the great room to the spectacular view is a moment the homeowners will never forget.”
A Holistic Approach to Property Planning
For John, every successful design begins with understanding not just the home, but the property as a whole. “It’s important to learn how our clients will use not only the home but also the surrounding land—even if some plans won’t come to life until later. If they love hosting large gatherings outdoors, I want to ensure the transition between indoor and outdoor spaces feels seamless.”
John also encourages early planning for future outbuildings, driveways, and utility access to avoid costly or awkward changes later. “Sometimes, a slight rotation or mirroring of the floor plan can make all the difference,” he notes. “And in some cases, we’ll even recommend building on a completely different area of the property to take full advantage of views or natural contours.”
Trusted Guidance, Lasting Impact
From septic placement to drainage to maximizing solar exposure, John helps clients navigate important decisions early in the process—often identifying challenges before they become problems. “These are not everyday concerns for most homeowners,” he says. “We’re here to walk them through it with clarity and confidence.”
Since joining Beaver Mountain in 1996, John has played a role in hundreds of custom homes. But what he values most is the moment when a family’s dream starts to take shape. “Knowing I’ve helped design a home where memories will be made for generations—that’s what makes this work meaningful.”
Designed to Belong
At Beaver Mountain, site-specific design is more than a design philosophy—it’s a commitment to doing things the right way. By listening carefully, walking the land, and drawing on decades of experience, we ensure that every custom home we craft is uniquely suited to its setting and to the people who will call it home.
