Transforming a Well-Loved Home for the Next Chapter

The Eau Pleine project in Marathon County is a great example of what can happen when the right plan and the right team come together. The homeowners loved their home and everything it represented, but like many properties from the 90s, it no longer supported how they live today or how they want to live moving forward.

Through a thoughtful whole-home remodel, our team stepped in as a trusted design-build remodeler to guide the process from start to finish. By planning ahead and working closely with the homeowners, we transformed the space into something more functional, updated, and ready for the next chapter.

Building on What Already Worked

One of the most important parts of this project was recognizing what didn’t need to change.

The homeowners had invested in their property over time, and the home itself had been well maintained. Instead of starting over, the goal was to build on that foundation through a custom home renovation approach, keeping what worked while improving what didn’t.

This is a common starting point for many families considering a whole house remodel in Wausau, Wisconsin. The house isn’t the problem, it just needs to evolve with how life has changed.

In this case, the biggest shift was moving from a home designed for raising kids to one designed for hosting them. That meant creating more space, improving flow, and making sure the home could comfortably support large family gatherings for years to come.

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What Was Updated in This Whole Home Remodel?

This project was a true full transformation, a whole home renovation that touched nearly every part of the home, inside and out.

Reworking the Interior for Modern Living

A big part of remodeling an older home in Wausau, WI is updating the layout.

We reconfigured portions of the main floor to improve flow between spaces and create a more open, connected feel. This allowed the kitchen, dining, and living areas to function better together, especially when hosting family and guests.

Along with layout changes, the entire interior home renovation included:

Wide plank light oak flooring throughout
Stone tile in key areas
Updated cabinetry and millwork
Taj Mahal countertops
Kohler plumbing fixtures

The goal was to make the home look newer and make it feel more natural to live in day-to-day.

Expanding the Home for Gathering Space

To support the homeowners’ goals, we added approximately 1,500 square feet to the main level, bringing the total footprint to over 5,500 square feet.

This addition included a dedicated rec room designed specifically for hosting. Whether it’s holidays or weekend visits, the space now allows the family to gather comfortably without feeling crowded.

For many homeowners exploring home renovations in Wausau, WI, adding usable square footage is one of the most impactful upgrades not just for value, but for how the home actually functions.

Creating a New Master Suite

Another major component of this luxury home remodel in Wisconsin was the addition of a new master suite.

This space was designed to feel private, comfortable, and practical for the long term. It includes:

A large bedroom layout
A spa-style bathroom with a jet tub
Two full tile walk-in showers
Thoughtful layout decisions to support aging in place

Planning ahead like this is a key part of any remodeling project. It’s about making sure it continues to work 10–20 years down the road.

Upgrading Exterior Materials for Long-Term Performance

While much of the focus was on the interior, the exterior was also updated to improve durability and reduce long-term maintenance.

Upgrades included:

LP® Diamond Kote siding
Decra metal shingles
Azek decking

These improvements ensure the home looks consistent inside and out while standing up to Wisconsin’s climate.

Adding Features That Elevate Daily Living

To complete the transformation, the project included several features that enhance everyday comfort:

A custom sauna
Two wood-burning fireplaces
High-end finish selections throughout

These details are what take a project from a standard remodel to a true luxury home remodel, creating a home that feels like a retreat.

Managing a Tight Timeline

One of the biggest challenges in this project was the timeline.

The home needed to be fully completed between early September and December 5th, before the family returned home.

That required:

Detailed pre-planning
Strong coordination across trades
Clear communication with the homeowners

There were challenges along the way, including delayed decisions, but by working collaboratively and staying proactive, the project stayed on track.

This is where having an experienced Wausau remodeling contractor and a clear process makes a difference.

Why the Design-Build Approach Matters

This project highlights the value of the design-build whole home renovation process.

By managing design, planning, and construction under one team, we’re able to:

Align expectations early
Keep projects moving efficiently
Reduce stress for the homeowner

For anyone considering how to plan a whole house remodel, this approach provides clarity from the very beginning.

Start Your Project With a Team You Can Trust

Clear guidance, honest communication, and craftsmanship you can count on.

Connect with our team to discuss your goals and schedule your first conversation. We will walk you through the next steps, answer your questions, and help you move forward with confidence.

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Eau Pleine Whole House Remodel | Marathon County, WI

A thoughtfully designed whole house remodel near Eau Pleine that blends timeless materials, natural light, and craftsmanship built for everyday living and entertaining.