A Vision Becomes Reality

Sue Dalpe’s modern yet timeless home is a standout in Brunswick Forest.

The curb appeal of Sue Dalpe’s home is the talk of the neighborhood in Brunswick Forest in Leland.

That’s because her three-bedroom, three-and-a-half-bath modern façade stunningly stands out from the rest of the crowd and makes quite a statement. The black-and-white exterior is sleek and contemporary, a big contrast to the other stately coastal new builds in the community.

Dalpe’s homebuilding journey first began a few years ago, when she spotted her dream place for her retirement home in Brunswick Forest, a lot that borders the third hole of Cape Fear National Golf Course. As with any homebuilding process, however, there were highs and lows for hers, along with bumps in the road.

From the time the foundation was poured in 2021 to move-in day in 2022, it was a challenging timeframe.

Dalpe credits her architect’s impressive eye and Bell Custom Homes, known for constructing award-winning luxury homes along the coast of California and here in North Carolina, for bringing her vision to life.

She came to her team knowing exactly what she wanted in her home, with a checklist in hand: high, vaulted ceilings, ceiling beams, tall windows, a butler’s pantry, a den to house a bar and space for playing games, and an outdoor kitchen.

As for interior design, “I wanted something grander than I had in the north,” the Rhode Island native says. “I thank Instagram for all of my inspiration.”

After a failed attempt to work with a professional designer, she instead relied on her daughter’s stylish taste if she could not make up her mind on a final decision on something.

She also trusted the opinion of her friend and neighbor, an artist who created a couple of the paintings that hang in Dalpe’s home today.

The interior results are stunning, with metal accents, edgy lighting, durable hardwood floors, floor-to-ceiling windows, fire features and an expansive coastal-themed outdoor kitchen that wows.

“I love that I have views of the golf course no matter where I am,” says Dalpe, who also has a fairway porch for viewing. “I love the warmth that a modern house offers. I feel simple is best. And I love to entertain.”

Unfortunately, Dalpe is not able to share the joy of living in the home with her husband. He died from ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, five years ago.

“He owned his own heating and air conditioning business and worked so hard,” she says. “When he was diagnosed, it was like a death sentence and he died 22 months later. I am so very thankful that my husband took care of me so that I was able to build this home.”

Dalpe says that a cane they picked out for him when traveling to St. Marten is propped up beside the front door as a heartfelt reminder of that.

Photography by Megan Deitz