Couple Expands DIY Home as Family Grows in Hillsdale, NY

UPDATE: A couple in Hillsdale, New York, is transforming their DIY home to accommodate their growing family, showcasing an incredible journey of resilience and adaptability. Dimitri Brand and Nelly Mecklenburg have officially started building an 850-square-foot addition to their home, responding to the imminent need for space as they welcome their first child.

After years of moving across cities, including New Haven and Washington, D.C., the couple purchased a 10-acre lot for $32,000 in 2019, seeking a permanent home. “We always talked about building a house,” Brand, 36, said. Their initial build began with a 100-square-foot platform, which allowed them to experience the land’s seasonal beauty while planning for a larger structure.

By Spring 2021, they constructed a compact living space featuring a 475-square-foot walkout basement as Brand’s office, and a cozy upper level for living. Utilizing local materials, they crafted a home that is both functional and sustainable, even milling oak trees from their property into flooring.

However, the couple’s journey took a significant turn when they discovered they were expecting in Spring 2023. Faced with the pressing need for space, they initiated construction on the new addition, which is designed to accommodate not just their current needs but future expansions as well. Brand explained, “This house has the capacity to be there for the different phases of our lives.”

The addition, while initially unfinished, allows for a full-size kitchen upgrade, moving from a cramped kitchenette to a family-friendly cooking space. “Now, we end up spending most of our time as a family there,” Mecklenburg shared, highlighting the emotional impact of their evolving home.

With the couple completing much of the labor themselves and relying on friends for assistance, they have managed to keep their total construction costs around $325,000. Their approach not only emphasizes sustainability but also showcases their commitment to building a home that adapts to their family’s growth.

As they prepare for the next chapter in their lives, Brand and Mecklenburg’s story resonates with many who seek stability and connection in an ever-changing world. Their journey is a testament to the power of community, creativity, and the unwavering desire to create a home filled with love.

Stay tuned for more updates on this inspiring family’s ongoing home-building journey.