From the moment Jordan and Brandon Cernik first drove through the South Hamptons neighborhood in Elkhorn, Nebraska, they were captivated. For them, the neighborhood struck the perfect balance—secluded and serene, yet close enough to Omaha for convenience.
What really set it apart, however, was the forest—a rare gem among the city’s suburban landscape.
“Our future lot was a remarkable find,” said Jordan Cernik, Vice President of Arjay Builders, Inc., which builds custom luxury homes. “Nestled between two homes, it stood untouched, with towering 100-plus year-old oak trees sprawling across a dramatic hill. Unlike the other developed lots, this one retained a raw beauty with trees that seemed to disappear deep into the forest, creating a tranquil, storybook backdrop. My husband and I exchanged a look, and in that moment, we knew this was it, this was where we’d build our dream home.”
After purchasing the lot in 2020, the Cerniks rolled up their sleeves and got to work, first doing thoughtful, selective tree removal to preserve as many of the oaks as possible while making room for their home. To prepare the hill for construction, truckloads of dirt were hauled away, resulting in a lot that Cernik said retains its forested charm—a lush, green view that feels like a retreat.
As for the design and construction of their home, she said they took their time, drawing inspiration from the timeless Tudor Revival style to complement the lot’s natural elegance. “Our property feels like a piece of history; a nod to nature, thoughtfully balanced with a home that honors the beauty surrounding it,” she said.
After two years of planning, designing, and carefully building, the couple proudly moved into their dream home in 2022. Cernik said because they built their home from the ground up, every detail was carefully designed and thoughtfully executed to make it a space that perfectly reflects their vision. Over the past two years, they have made a few personal touches to enhance the property.
“My husband crafted a charming wood-burning firepit in the backyard, creating the perfect spot for cozy evenings outdoors,” she said. “We also planted mature evergreens along the south side of the property, adding a layer of privacy and helping the home feel even more secluded and serene.”
One of the most memorable decisions the Cerniks made was choosing the façade’s material. They stumbled upon a masonry technique online called German Smear—a process that uses mortar to create a whitewashed, textured finish on brick or stone. Cernik instantly fell in love with it, and though it was a popular style in places like Texas, it was almost unheard of in Omaha at the time. After extensive research, she made the bold choice to German Smear the entire front of the house despite some pushback.
“Many masonry companies were hesitant, some even advising against it, because once it was done, there was no turning back,” she said. “A common response I received was, ‘You want to cover your natural stone in mortar?’ But we took the plunge, and we couldn’t be more thrilled with the result. Now, it’s exciting to see more homes around Omaha embracing this technique, and it feels great to have been part of bringing this unique style to the area.”
Another feature of this custom home is the “thoughtful and consistent use of materials that capture the essence of Tudor style” that gives it an authentic, old-world feel. Cernik said every detail was chosen to reflect the time period and create a cohesive atmosphere throughout the space. This coupled with Arjay Builder’s custom quality is what makes the home so special.
One of the standout features is the stunning reclaimed timber beams—each weighing a remarkable 400 pounds—that float over the cathedral ceiling of the living room. This expanse brings a feeling of grandeur and history to the home.
The home also boasts a custom fireplace surround inspired by a photo of an authentic 1920s piece, further tying in the home’s period style. In the main level powder room, the Cerniks added an eye-catching touch with 3D black and white patterned tiles sourced from Italy, creating a striking focal point that evokes a parlor-like atmosphere. Another unique bathroom feature is the dentil crown molding painted in a rich, deep green, which looks almost black and complements the beadboard accented by brass globe sconces and floral wallpaper.
“Throughout the house, there are subtle yet distinctive elements, like pops of brass and reeded glass accents that nod to the Tudor period and add a timeless elegance,” Cernik said. “One of the most memorable details is the primary bath’s grey and white checkerboard tile flooring—a discontinued pattern I fought hard to secure, making it a rare and special addition to the space. Every element, from the smallest accents to the largest features, was chosen with intention to make our home a true reflection of the style and character we love.”
Despite only living in the home for two years, Cernik said the couple has decided to sell the home with the intention of taking on a new design and build adventure. And while she admits it’s a bittersweet choice, they thrive on change and the excitement of new projects.
“We’re ready to embark on a fresh adventure, with hopes that the next owners will fall in love with this home just as much as we have,” she said. “The thought of it continuing to be appreciated and cared for brings us joy, knowing its next chapter will be just as meaningful as the one we’ve had here.” For more information or to schedule a showing, contact Michael Maley with M2 Real Estate Group, 402-981-7400, michael.maley@bhhsamb.com.