What's Happening?
A homebuilder in St. George, Utah, has created a $7 million replica of the iconic McCallister family home from the movie 'Home Alone.' Nathan Shaffer, a partner at Strata Construction, spearheaded the project as an entry for the upcoming St. George Parade of Homes. The 14,000-square-foot Georgian-style house features six bedrooms and 8.5 bathrooms, situated on a one-acre lot in the Washington Fields area. The exterior closely resembles the original Chicago-area home, complete with a nod to the movie's burglars through a 'wanted wet bandit' sticker on a nearby van. Architect Josh Warner noted that the team used 60 to 70% of the original home's layout for the interior design, incorporating modern amenities like an indoor pickleball court and a swimming
pool. The project aims to attract visitors during the February parade, offering them a chance to explore and find movie references throughout the home.
Why It's Important?
This project highlights the intersection of nostalgia and real estate, showcasing how cultural icons can influence modern architecture and tourism. By recreating a beloved movie setting, Strata Construction taps into a unique market niche, potentially drawing significant attention and visitors to the St. George area. The 'Home Alone' house serves as a cultural attraction, likely boosting local tourism and economic activity during the Parade of Homes. However, the specialized nature of the home may limit its buyer pool, presenting both opportunities and challenges for the developers. The project underscores the potential for themed real estate to create memorable experiences and drive community engagement.
What's Next?
As the 'Home Alone' replica nears completion, Strata Construction plans to host community events during the February Parade of Homes, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the movie's setting. The company is actively marketing the project, using themed elements like the replica movie van and 'wanted' posters to generate buzz. The home, named 'McCallister Manor,' is expected to be a major attraction, drawing over 40,000 visitors. The success of this project could inspire similar themed developments, influencing future real estate trends and community events.
