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Michele Lerner

Michele Lerner is an award-winning real estate journalist in the Washington, D.C., area. Scroll down to see articles written by Michele for Pro Builder.

Photo: Michael Duerinckx Architecture Photography
The paseo meanders through The Havenly build-to-rent community.
Design

The Appeal of a Build-to-Rent Community With Character

Designed for those who are renters by choice, The Havenly neighborhood of single-family homes succeeds in delivering a sense of belonging for residents
Oct. 10, 2024
Photo: Uneek Image
The Pearl’s award-winning lanai (top and far left) surrounds a pool with multiple outdoor living spaces and activities, including a gazebo with a firepit.
Design

9 Standout Design Details

Even the smallest design element or space within a larger context can elevate a project from really good to memorable. Ranging from full rooms and front entry makeovers to garden...
June 12, 2024
Photo: Nick Neuberger
The Burch Creek Home, Awarded Home Of The Year In The 2023 Best In American Living Awards, Blends Modernism With Japanese Influences
Award-Winning Projects

2023 BALA Winners: The Best of the Best

​  From stylish custom homes to a mixed-use infill project in Music City, these four award-winning projects from the 2023 Best in American Living Awards​ (BALA) exemplify...
April 18, 2024
Photo: Darris Lee Harris Photography
The Peabody School adaptive reuse project in Chicago converted the Elizabeth Peabody School, built in 1894, into 23 apartments and salvaged materials from the school to add character and preserve elements of the building's history.
Design

4 Inspiring Adaptive Reuse Projects With Real Impact

From former schools to warehouses, these adaptive reuse projects—winners in the 2023 Best in American Living Awards—succeed in creating new housing and revitalizing their neighborhoods...
Feb. 18, 2024
House That Blues Built Green Stretch Code Mass Cummings Albert Christina
Events + Idea Homes

Going Green in The House That Blues Built

As fourth-generation custom home builders, Albert and Christina Cummings have always been committed to sustainability. Preparations for the couple’s personal home include a high...
April 27, 2022
Blues musician Albert Cummings performs on stage
Events + Idea Homes

Singing the Supply Chain Blues

The story of The House That Blues Built, a custom home in the Berkshire Mountains in Massachusetts
March 31, 2022
House That Blues Built
Events + Idea Homes

Introducing The House That Blues Built

We follow the build of a new high-performance custom home by blues guitarist and custom builder Albert Cummings
March 30, 2022