Welcome to Grasshopper West! This unique two structure retreat offers truly special surroundings and inspired interior spaces. The main home and guest house (“the nest”) were designed by acclaimed architect Norman Carver, whose work was informed by contemporary Frank Lloyd Wright, and Carver's extensive study of traditional Japanese architecture. Less than 2 hours from Chicago and 1 hour from Grand Rapids, the property is just 10 minutes from downtown South Haven and all the attractions of West Michigan. You'll be close to every convenience while simultaneously feeling away from it all.
Dramatic west facing views over Lake Michigan and 280 ft. of private sandy beach aren't all there is to love… the property also includes beautiful woods, expansive lawn space, wrap around decking with outdoor seating and dining space, and thoughtfully chosen tree and plant species. The walk from the decks to the beach includes a mowed path through native grasses and flowers, and the protected dune slope is home to sparrows and other birds. Explore away! On the top of the dune just before the stairs to the beach is a large platform deck perfect for coffee in the morning, and your favorite wind down routine at sunset. Yoga, morning meditations, sunbathing, evening cocktail? You're covered. Grasshopper West is simultaneously remarkable and unpretentious, a place for gathering friends and family, taking in the landscape and lake, wandering and pondering.
Together, the main house and the nest guest house provide 4 bedrooms and 3 full baths, with a practical division of space that allows for groups to enjoy seclusion when desired. You'll appreciate large windows, high cedar beamed ceilings, and Japanese style privacy screens. The open living layout is generously sized and has great flow, and the updated kitchen in the main house includes new appliances and comes stocked with everything the cook needs. In the nest, enjoy the kitchenette with its own refrigerator, coffee maker, microwave, and other necessities. For your comfort, white noise machines are in every bedroom. Or you can just keep the windows open and let the sound of lake breezes through the trees lull you to sleep. Can you hear it already?
Grasshopper West has been lovingly cared in its nearly 50 years. It originally sat much closer to the dune but was painstakingly moved a few years ago to protect it from erosion. Guests of every age will find many things to love. It is an inspiring and inspired place that is easy to appreciate and not soon forgotten. We ask that guests who stay care for the home well, and are mindful of its natural environment, so it can continue to be enjoyed by many. We look forward to hosting you!
Bedrooms (4):
Main house primary BR w/ king bed and ensuite bathroom
Main house second BR w/ queen bed
Main house "office", w/ twin day bed and full murphy bed (sleeps 3 children, or 2 adults)
Nest primary bedroom w/ king bed, and separate full bath
Bathrooms (3):
2 full baths in main house (one with tub/shower, one with shower)
1 full bath in the nest (shower)
Additional amenities:
High speed wifi in both structures
New Weber gas grill
All linens and beach towels included
2 kayaks
2 stand up paddle boards
Lawn games, beach toys, beach chairs, and floats included
Pack and play available upon request
Nearby attractions:
Multiple biking trails
VanBuren State Park
DeGrandchamp Blueberry Farm
HawksHead Links Golf Course
Fenn Valley Vineyards
Modales Winery
Codgal Vineyards
So much more!
10 min drive to South Haven
https://www.southhaven.org
