The name “The Fabulous Mrs. Forrest” is a nod to our client, Kim, and the heart behind this build. She is humble, hard-working, and genuine, and this home reflects her vision in a way that feels personal to their family. Her husband, Dan, and their two sons supported the choices that mattered most to her, because her goal was simple: create a home where their family could live well, connect easily, and genuinely enjoy time together.

The name also has a playful layer rooted in their story as a couple. Forrest Gump was the movie Dan and Kim saw on their first date, so “Mrs. Forrest” became a quiet reference to a moment that has been part of their relationship from the beginning, and as a small surprise, our team gifted them a Forrest Gump movie poster to hang outside the theater room – a small touch that reflects how this home was designed around their story.

Dan and Kim knew they wanted to put down roots in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, even though their life was still based out of state. With two demanding careers, two sons in college, and weekends spent on the road for their son’s competitive soccer schedule, their days were already full. Like many out-of-state clients, they kept coming back to one question: how do we build a home we love from hundreds of miles away?

From the beginning, they wanted a clear plan and a builder who would keep them informed every step of the way. They asked for a documented path, a schedule they could trust, and honest communication about what was happening on site. 

Our selections manager and construction manager became their day to day points of contact, spending time up front to walk through the plan and answer questions. Because both Dan and Kim travel for work and are often in different cities, many conversations happened at night or on weekends. Our team adjusted to their schedule so they could keep living their lives while the home moved forward.

Using Buildertrend, texts, calls, and regular photo updates, they stayed connected to the job even when they were miles away. Real time communication and the ability to review progress from their phones gave them confidence that what was happening on site matched the vision they had agreed on at the start.

Throughout the selections process, our team took time to understand Dan and Kim’s taste so we could make smart suggestions from afar. That meant recommending colors, fixtures, and materials that felt like them, even when decisions were made on a screen instead of in a showroom. The result is a home that feels deeply personal.

Large windows in the main living areas bring in natural light and show off the height of the rooms. The house feels bright and open, yet still warm and comfortable for everyday life.

In the kitchen, hidden pantry doors allow generous storage without breaking up the clean cabinetry lines. A custom cable railing along the stairs and overlooks maintains an open feel and preserves sightlines between the levels. Under the stairs, a simple but thoughtful storage solution gives the family a practical place to tuck away everyday items.

The primary bathroom is a quiet retreat for the couple. The shower is spacious and detailed, with finishes chosen to feel calm and spa like. Upstairs, a dedicated theater room is all about time together – movie nights, big games, or just an easy night in. 

When Dan and Kim finally walked into their completed home, they described themselves as overwhelmed with excitement. Their story is a picture of what is possible for out of state clients who want a beautiful, highly personal home without putting their life on hold to build it. With the right plan, the right systems, and a trusted team on the ground, distance does not have to be a barrier to creating the kind of home you have been dreaming of for years.