by Christy Heitger-Ewing | photos by WayUp Media
Kristen Shaffer-Hale was just 15 years old when she began working with her dad at Kent Shaffer Homes. She saw something special in the business that her father and grandfather had built and was eager to carry on the legacy. For the past several years, she’s been doing just that, after she fully took the reins of Kent Shaffer Homes.
“The biggest thing I learned from my dad and grandpa is putting the client first, making sure they have a great experience, and being really involved in every project,” says Shaffer-Hale.
This past September, Kent Shaffer Homes participated in the 2025 Lee Supply Corp. Home-A-Rama in Hamilton County’s Chatham Hills subdivision. They had previously been a part of the 2018, 2020, and 2024 shows, winning the People’s Choice Award in 2018 and 2024. This year, the team took on a Modern Scandinavian design.
“The homeowners wanted something modern,” says Shaffer-Hale. “We provided that modern feel but also brought in warm tones to make it welcoming.”
Two of the principal artisans, architectural designer Emily Handke owner of Emily Handke Designs, and Sarah Wilson, interior designer and owner of Wildflower Home Design, helped bring this lovely Scandinavian home to life. The 7,970 sq. ft. luxury home features a great room with floor-to-ceiling glass into the gable roofline. This floor-to-ceiling glass mimics the opening to the kids’ loft above with a balcony that looks down to the Great Room from above.
The home features expansive glass walls, warm wood accents, earthy neutrals, and textural stone to fuse contemporary and cozy. Wilson added warmth to this black Nordic beauty through rich chocolate wood, subtle arches, and a monochromic color scheme.
“You’ll notice indirect yet interesting detail in countertops, cabinets and, well, honestly everything,” says Wilson.
The first floor’s expansive open floor plan features plenty of oversized windows to welcome in an abundance of natural light as well as a sunroom that overlooks the manicured golf course. Speaking of bringing the outdoors in, the team did just that by incorporating the Shou Sugi Ban, Japanese charred wood siding, from the exterior facade to the interior entryway and fireplace surround to make the home and these spaces flow seamlessly.
Wilson thoughtfully curated materials to set the stage in the home.
“Anything textured is the name of the game with tons of layers!” says Wilson. “Shine Design Furnishings hit the nail on the head with their true commitment to the organic feel of the home for staging. They were a perfect fit to complete this style.”
The kids’ loft upstairs is a great space for lounging, watching TV, and playing games with siblings and friends. Directly off the kids’ loft is the homework and bunk room.
“It’s perfect for all of the kids in the home to gather together in these shared spaces,” says Handke.
The home showcases richly colored rooms, alabaster lighting, and sculptural arches, paired with luxury amenities like a lower-level wellness center, complete with fitness room, hidden spa bathroom, and a dedicated wellness space featuring an infrared sauna & cold plunge.
“As people make health a priority, these wellness centers are becoming increasingly popular,” says Shaffer-Hale.
Outdoor amenities include a pool and covered porch with a grilling area and motorized screens.
In addition, this 6-bedroom, 6.5-bath home has a full wet bar on the main floor, ideal for hosting in the center of the home.
“With expansive sliding glass doors that open up to the golf course and pool space beyond, you can truly entertain and serve your guests fun cocktails from both inside and outside the home,” says Handke. “This home was made for family living with a good dose of entertaining as well.”
When Wilson designs for a luxury home, she shoots for a minimalistic but consistent approach so that the entire room—not just one piece of it—fits together to wow.
“Some of my favorites in this home are the triple bullnose countertop on the island, tile around the mudroom cabinets, and hidden doors. And my heart belongs to the light fixtures!” says Wilson. “Making this modern home feel warm and inviting was the ultimate goal for our team, and based on our homeowners’ reactions, we succeeded.”
If you would like to take steps to build your own unique beauty, contact the seasoned team at Kent Shaffer Homes.
