The latest Maric show home in Pritchard Farm Properties reflects the casual lifestyle of the country setting. "Most of our plans are an open-type concept where you can see from one room to another, as opposed to square rooms that are very formal," explains Cathie Maric, co-owner with her husband, Steve.

This year marks the 25th anniversary of Maric Homes, a builder known for creative details such as niches, pillars, ledges, soft rounded corners and built-in entertainment centres. Besides incorporating many of these features, the houses, such as the one on Fieldberry Way's show home row, boast nine foot ceilings and an abundance of windows to take advantage of the natural surroundings. Another noticeable feature is the focus on creating a very attractive front entrance and feature window. In the basement, by using steel beams instead of teleposts, the builder has eliminated any obstacles to fully developing the lower level. Walkout basements are also popular options with their customers.

Unique and innovative designs are the main attraction that have kept clients coming back to Maric Homes for their second, and sometimes even third, house. They know that members of the family operated business will always be available to answer their questions. "You have a partnership," Maric emphasizes. "It's almost like a marriage. The customer has to feel comfortable knowing what's happening."

Cathie Maric spends much of her time decorating the show homes to better highlight the design. She prides herself in thinking ahead with ideas that, while on the cutting edge, will accommodate almost any style of furniture and accessories. Her use of neutral tints and earth tones complement that casual relaxed feeling of their homes exude.

As 20-year residents of East St. Paul, the Marics also have a feel for the country lifestyle their clients are seeking when choosing Pritchard Farm Properties. Working with the shape of the lot, they build homes that are both dramatic and welcoming. "When they come to our show home, a lot of people say that they can picture themselves living in the home," says Maric. "That's the type of home we're trying to build out there. When you go there, you feel like you never want to leave."