Steiner Homes celebrates family legacy with personalized floor plan names
- By: Alyssa Chartrand
- Last Updated: June 19, 2026
At Steiner Homes in Portage and Valparaiso, floor plans are far more than entries on a selection list. Each design is named for loved ones or those who laid the foundation for the company’s story, a tradition that serves as a permanent reminder that every home is built to uphold the integrity of the family legacy.
We have plans designed to fit everyone’s current stage of life. Some of them are for a younger families, and some of them are for people in between and some are for those looking to downsize. Every floor plan is different, depending on what your family needs,“ said Megan Heckard, sales agent at Steiner Homes. “We are fully-custom here, and love to design for you!”
At Steiner Homes, floor plans are named after family members and project managers rather than assigned abstract codes. This tradition connects every building to the custom home builder’s history and foundational expertise. Through these plans, Steiner Homes provides diverse layouts tailored to every stage of life. Options range from two-story homes for growing families to ranch-style, master-on-the-main residences built for lasting comfort.
“I think people trust us because we’re a family business,” Heckard said. “My dad was taught how to build by his father-in-law, a Swedish builder, and we take a lot of family pride in that.”
The naming practice ensures family history is woven into every design. The popular “Eleanor” plan is named in honor of Megan and Molly’s niece. The “Arthur” plan pays tribute to the family’s grandfather, who taught them the trade. Other names like “Ava” honor each of Megan’s four kids. Steiner Homes also highlights long-time operations manager Ryan Zentz by naming a floor plan after his daughters, and the “Vesper” honors the daughter of Molly Young, head of marketing for Steiner Homes.
“Whenever someone tells me that they live in a ‘Vesper,’ I’m honored. It adds emotion to the work,” said Young. “We are really proud of them, just like how we’re proud of our kids.”
The Steiner Homes team uses this tradition of naming their floor plans to anchor their business transparency and trust. In an industry that often feels cold and transactional, Steiner Homes fosters a personal, family-centered experience. Their tight-knit, familial structure eliminates the common anxiety that a builder will become unresponsive or ghost a client during a project. Consistent communication remains a standard expectation of every project.
“Our father takes pride in his reputation, and he wants to build you a great home that you’re going to love forever,” Heckard said. “That is our legacy — building these great homes that are going to be around for 100 years.”
Steiner Homes reinforces a culture of accountability and intentional craftsmanship. Younger generations are already stepping up to ensure a bright future for the company and the community.
The large family is thrilled to soon retreat to the Boundary Waters in Minnesota for an annual, remote fishing trip. This tradition keeps the team grounded, connected, and focused on building homes that truly matter.
“We invest a lot of time in each other and other people in the company,” Young said. “It’s not about making money and being successful, but it’s about caring for people and showing people that they matter and that they’re important.”
For more information about Steiner Homes and to view available plans for your future luxury home, visit steinerhomesltd.com.