By Linda Tancs
Both an artist and an architect, master builder Earl Young gained a reputation for constructing homes that blend in with their surroundings. For that reason, they’ve come to be known as Gnome Homes, Mushroom Houses or Hobbit Houses. Located in Charlevoix, Michigan, they’re made from locally sourced stone and feature cedar-shake roofs. The iconic dwellings (26 homes and four commercial buildings) include such shutterbug favorites as Mushroom House (the mushroom-like dwelling that gives all the houses their most common moniker), Half House (looking like two halves), Thatch Roof House and Owl House (resembling an owl). A self-guided tour map is available from the Visitors Center at 109 Mason Street. Be aware that the homes are privately owned and not open for interior tours.
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