Home is where the heart is—no matter your stage of life. But for active, young families, achieving that dream home status often takes a back seat to just about everything else on that never-ending to-do list.

When the Bors family was looking to capitalize on stunning acreage they’d purchased in a tree-cloaked region in the Portland area, they knew they would need a builder with a special vision and skill set to turn their vision for the land into a reality.

“We wanted a big house but also for it to feel cozy and to have all spaces be useful. We wanted to be able to enjoy the views from all the rooms, too," says homeowner Morgan Bors.

Morgan had lived in a Renaissance Home during her high school days, remembering the home fondly for its quality, design, and functionality. When comparing builders for her family of four's own home, the decision came easy.

But what she might not have expected, was how streamlined, efficient, and down-right enjoyable the Renaissance Homes team made the process for her through the company's signature hands-on custom building approach.

“They were very responsive, professional, and had a good sense of humor, as well, which is important to us," Bors says. "Building a house is a long and somewhat stressful process so having people who are experts to guide you is so important."

In the company's signature Design Studio and throughout their numerous recently completed projects, the Renaissance Homes team was able to show the Bors a large collection of plans available—from single-level to sloped lots and even multigenerational—as well as finishings of all shapes and sizes that could be combined, mixed, and matched to create an entirely custom look for their new home.

Each Renaissance Home is tailor-made for each homeowner, guided by Renaissance Homes' more than 38 years of building and design expertise, which the Bors family quickly benefited from.

"They had so many great ideas," Bors recalls. "They designed our house to fit our unique space and fit everything we wanted in perfectly. Their design team is a dream to work with and so talented. It also helped that I could go see some of their houses and pick and choose finishes I liked." 

The result: a gorgeous, rambling abode with plenty of space for Bors' young boys' legs to roam (both indoors and out) with lots of practical, family-focused amenities to boot.

In the main living area, a wrap-around island with seating for six is the center of activity most days, where the family can unwind, do homework, and break bread together just off the welcoming, open-concept living room with its towering vaulted ceilings.

 "We love the kitchen and great room," Bors says. "It's big enough for us to relax in, watch TV, cook in, and for the boys to play in all at the same time."

A second dining area flows off to the right, under a chic chandelier for more formal meals. Windows and a massive, four-panel glass door wrap the main living space, giving unencumbered views of the property's lush, secluded landscapes outside—one of the family's original must-haves. 

Through the glass doors lies a breath-taking outdoor living space where the Bors family can breathe easy after a long day or continue amping up the fun. A wood-lined cathedral ceiling pulls the scenic surrounding beauty closer inward, while a stone fireplace and loads of cushy seating around the mounted television calls for family-friendly barbecues. "I'm looking forward to spring and summer so we can be in the outside living room more," Bors adds.

Of course, one can't forget about the other practical and yet beautifully executed features inside. A lower-level game room with theater seating and space for indoor hoops is every playful kids' haven—not to mention the covered concrete patio attached, complete with ping pong and more seating.

Meanwhile, the roomy laundry space, home office, gym, massive pantry, and smartly tucked away mudroom appeal to every parent's pragmatic side. But the bright and airy main suite with walk-in closet and soaking tub—now, that's simply for Mom and Dad's daily, luxurious retreat.

For more information on Renaissance Custom Homes, visit renaissance-homes.com, or call 503.713.8422.