Woman transforms four dated 1940s cottages into stunning $4 million ‘micro-complex’ on Lake Michigan

A woman who bought a collection of four dated Michigan cottages has revealed how she converted the individual properties into a luxury ‘micro-compound’ that is now on the market for $3.99 million.

Designer Kate Marker came across the cottages in 2023 when she was on the hunt for a unique property that had ‘character and charm’ but also had the potential to be converted into a multi-structure home that could serve a variety of purposes, as a unique private home or a specialist rental.

So she bought the quartet of Union Pier homes for $1.28 million and set about transforming the somewhat rustic properties into a modern complex that elegantly combines contemporary luxury with cottagecore charm.

“We were really drawn to the idea of ​​creating something that felt both intentional and welcoming, with a strong sense of community,” Marker tells Realtor.com®.

“I was looking for a property with character and charm, but also the ability to build a cohesive experience across multiple spaces. It had to feel like a destination, yet be approachable and livable.”

Now known as The Townie Cottages Collection, the half-acre estate is located near the shore of Lake Michigan, just minutes from Townline Public Beach and Gordon Association Beach.

Having put her very personal stamp on the homes, Marker is now ready to move on to her next big project – offering the site to a new steward looking for a slice of lakeside luxury, either as a private retreat or a business opportunity.

“This was always part of a larger creative process,” she said. “As much as I like this building, I always look forward to the next opportunity to design and build something new. Letting go of this creates space for that next chapter.”

Each of the homes within the collection (The Ivy, The Sage, The Moss and The Fern) was renovated by Marker and now showcases its signature style, combining natural materials with elegant, modern finishes.

The turnkey seven-bedroom complex is designed to function as a self-contained resort with an emphasis on communal outdoor living. Outdoor highlights include an in-ground pool, pavilion with grilling station, and fire pits for cooking s’mores and stargazing.

“The cottages are rooted in a relaxed, elevated cottage aesthetic, clean, layered and timeless,” she says. “There’s a mix of natural textures, soft neutrals and subtle nature-inspired elements, but nothing feels overly styled. The aim was to make each space feel calm, warm and effortlessly put together.”

Each home features designer white oak kitchens, high-end appliances, fireplaces, dedicated dining areas, hot tubs and even outdoor showers. Some have bedrooms with a king-size bed and a bath, while others have built-in bunk beds and walk-in showers.

The complex is designed to accommodate up to 22 guests and can be used for multi-generational living or operated as a short-term rental investment.

“I see the next buyer as someone who values ​​both design and experience, someone who understands the appeal of a turnkey, carefully curated property,” she adds.

“It could be a lifestyle investment, a hospitality-driven opportunity, or even a place that an extended family can gather and use year-round. They will be attracted to its uniqueness, but also how seamless and ready it is. The work has already been done.”

An 800-square-foot pool house, subject to New Buffalo Township guidelines, has already been approved, offering even more potential for adding equity.

And while the complex is made up of several different structures, Marker explains that they are specifically designed to encourage a sense of community, both through their layout and their cohesive coastal designs.

“One of the things that makes the property so special is the way it promotes connection while still offering privacy,” notes Marker.

“There are shared outdoor spaces and spaces designed for unwinding, whether that’s morning coffee outside or evenings with friends.

“At the same time, each cottage has its own hot tub, outdoor shower and private patio, so it feels communal without ever feeling crowded. The central pool really anchors that balance.”

Marker believes there is no end to the potential uses of the property. He notes that it could even be transformed into a boutique hotel of sorts, should the next owner have the right vision.

“There’s a lot of flexibility,” she shares. “It could continue as a short-term rental concept, evolve into a boutique hospitality experience, or function as a private complex for family and friends. There is also potential for small events, retreats or creative gatherings, which was always part of the vision.

“The location offers that rare balance of feeling like an escape yet incredibly accessible. There’s an ease and charm here that can’t really be manufactured. People come to slow down, and that feeling is lasting. The proximity to the beach and town adds to that. You can walk or quickly pop out for coffee, groceries or a delicious meal without ever disrupting that relaxed pace.”