Minnesota’s Native Prairie Landscape Sets the Stage for This Modern Home Near Minneapolis

The article details the design and construction of "Valdres," a contemporary prairie home conceived by Christopher Strom Architects. This project, explored by AIA partner Andersen Windows & Doors, aims to harmoniously blend Scandinavian minimalism with a more robust aesthetic, serving as a "landscape sculpture" that complements the surrounding rolling prairie. The name "Valdres," translating to "valley of pastures in the forest" in Norwegian, underscores the home's deep connection to its environment. Christopher Strom's design process involved a deliberate manipulation of roof forms and glass openings, resulting in a structure that balances elegant proportions with a rugged character. The exterior features a black standing-seam metal roof that extends down portions of the walls, contrasting with white poly-ash siding and charcoal-hued thermally treated wood siding. The horizontal lines of the wood siding visually counter the verticality of other materials and emphasize the home's low-slung massing. Drawing inspiration from Mid-Century modernism, the design incorporates large openings, including panoramic corner and clerestory windows from Andersen’s E-Series product line. Most of these openings are strategically placed towards the rear of the nearly 4,000-square-foot home (including the main floor and finished lower level), ensuring ample natural light penetrates the deep open-concept interior. Clerestory windows are particularly vital for distributing light throughout the space, regardless of the sun's angle. A central element of the home's design is its orientation towards a wetland, which becomes a dynamic focal point due to its seasonal changes. Floor-to-ceiling windows along the back wall preserve privacy while framing views of this evolving landscape, attracting wildlife such as sandhill cranes during spring rains. The choice of dark window frames further enhances the focus on the natural surroundings by minimizing visual interruption. The Andersen E-Series windows contribute significantly to both the aesthetic and functional aspects of the home, framing views and enabling passive solar heat gain and natural ventilation. Sustainability is a core principle in the Valdres project, with several thoughtful strategies employed to reduce resource consumption. A key feature is the stack ventilation system, which leverages convection: low-placed awning windows on the wetland side draw in cool air, while high-placed, automated clerestory windows on the street side vent out hot air. A sun canopy extends over the floor-to-ceiling windows, providing shade and blocking solar heat gain during summer while allowing beneficial low winter sunlight. The home's tight building envelope, achieved through structural insulated panels (SIPs) in the roof and walls and insulated concrete forms (ICFs) in the basement, ensures continuous insulation and optimal performance across all seasons. The design also emphasizes protection, with materials wrapping the building to provide a buffer against the elements, allowing the homeowner to enjoy the natural beauty without compromising privacy or disturbing neighbors. #ContemporaryDesign #PrairieHome #ChristopherStromArchitects #AndersenWindows #SustainableArchitecture #ScandinavianMinimalism #PassiveDesign #WetlandViews #BuildingEnvelope

Katie and Jesse Kath, known for their design-build firm Jkath Design Build + Reinvent, embarked on an unexpected journey to construct their "forever home" in Minneapolis. Initially aiming for a renovation, their three-year search for the perfect property led them to pivot when Jesse discovered a wide lot with a small, old house for sale. Despite being unprepared, their offer was accepted, pushing them into the realm of new construction. The couple envisioned a modern Tudor that would accommodate their family of five in its current stage and seamlessly transition to a comfortable space for just the two of them in the future. Katie, who leads the company's interior design, emphasized thoughtful space utilization and an aesthetic that would endure. The resulting 4,000-square-foot home blends traditional and open-concept areas, featuring a formal dining room alongside a casual kitchen and living room. The living room is intentionally modest in size, designed for conversation rather than large-scale entertainment, allowing the saved square footage to be allocated to a highly desired sunroom. This sunroom, a favorite feature for the couple, boasts stackable vinyl windows that transform it into a screened porch, creating a versatile indoor-outdoor experience. Upstairs, an office provides future work-from-home flexibility, and most of the children's bedrooms include private bathrooms, a long-term luxury for when the children visit as adults. Katie's design approach leans towards sophistication, with a notable use of dark-stained, furniture-like built-ins crafted by Jesse or his cabinet shop team. These bespoke elements contribute to the home's unique character. Practicality is also a key aspect of the design; for instance, the pantry, equipped with a grab-and-go beverage fridge, a water bottle-filling faucet, and a built-in wall oven, has become a family favorite. The 10-foot-long quartz island in the kitchen provides ample seating and display space, while the living room features a cast-stone fireplace and a picture window designed to maximize future landscape views. The home incorporates several custom and functional details. The banquette area includes an alder wood bench built by Jesse, reflecting the meticulous craftsmanship of Jkath Design Build + Reinvent. Oversized mercury glass pendants in the kitchen serve as a focal point. The pass-through pantry's storage cabinet is designed to resemble an antique heirloom, with reeded glass sliding doors for both aesthetics and functionality. The mudroom, a top request from their clients, features five integrated lockers behind massive built-in cabinet doors, along with a dedicated pet storage area for their dog, Otis. The powder room, designed around a classic floral trellis wallpaper, showcases details like crown molding and baseboards painted in Sherwin-Williams’s Green Onyx and polished nickel finishes. Further design highlights include the primary bath with natural stone tiles, a marble floor, and a custom alder vanity built by Jesse. The primary bedroom features a built-in display and storage unit in a previously dead corner, and the room is strategically placed for privacy. The upstairs laundry room, a welcome change for Katie, boasts hexagonal marble tile flooring and blue-gray cabinetry, creating a bright and functional space. A hall bath combines vintage charm with modern elements through unique tile flooring, a V-groove panel vanity, playful wallpaper, and sleek black accents. Charlie's bedroom incorporates antique elm as a feature wall, demonstrating a blend of character and practical application for client showcases. The exterior, a modern Tudor style, harmonizes with the established neighborhood, featuring oversize James Hardie panel siding, a metal and shingled roof, and black windows, with landscaping by Exterior Design Studio. The floor plan, initially sketched by Katie and Jesse, thoughtfully positions traditional spaces at the front and casual areas at the back, with a finished basement adding significant living space. This home epitomizes Jkath Design Build + Reinvent's philosophy of smart space utilization and timeless design. #HomeDesign #NewConstruction #ModernTudor #InteriorDesign #CustomBuiltIns #FamilyHome #MinneapolisRealEstate #JkathDesignBuild #SustainableDesign

Architectural designer Jeff Murphy and his wife Jill have created "Camp Murph," a dream cottage on Lake Pulaski in Minnesota, a place deeply significant to their lives. The Murphys, who grew up on opposite sides of the lake but met in San Diego, returned to Lake Pulaski to raise their family and desired to build a home that would serve as a central gathering spot. Now empty nesters, they’ve constructed a new cottage, about a mile from their previous family home, that accommodates their current life stage while remaining a welcoming hub for their three adult daughters. Jeff Murphy, an architectural designer, strategically positioned the house on a 50-foot bluff overlooking the water, with the main living areas on the primary level and guest rooms downstairs. The design of the home is a fusion of Jill's Scandinavian heritage and Jeff's Irish roots, evident in elements like carved timbers, rough-cut stone, and expansive windows. The couple aimed to incorporate the unique detailing and craftsmanship often found in historic Scandinavian homes, particularly in the woodworking, alongside the relaxed aesthetic characteristic of Minnesota lake homes. Key features of the cottage include reclaimed wood floors sourced from barns and a screened-in porch, which serves as the heart of the home. The exterior boasts black-stained siding contrasted with white trim and a cedar shake roof, reminiscent of Norwegian and Danish architecture. A firepit below the dining room window, framed with painted timbers and shed antlers, offers an alternative spot during windy lake days. Inside, the living room features a wall of windows offering panoramic lake views, complemented by a timbered ceiling made of white oak and elm, giving the room a sense of established history. A moss rock fireplace with chiseled stone corbels creates a cozy atmosphere, perfect for cool evenings. The kitchen is designed for family gatherings, with a large island and double windows that slide open to connect seamlessly with the screened-in porch, providing lake views. The island's Calacatta Laza quartz countertop is heated, a unique feature designed to enhance comfort. A dedicated pantry, featuring mossy green cabinets and unlacquered brass hardware, provides ample storage, allowing for a minimalist kitchen design without upper cabinets. The cottage also includes a Dutch door near the kitchen, providing easy access to the screened porch for pets like their golden retriever Piper and Shih Tzu poodle Daisy. The screened-in porch, a modest 13 by 13 feet, is intentionally sized to foster intimacy while still accommodating gatherings, and features an antique pub table and a woodburning fireplace. Inspired by Irish pubs, a dining alcove referred to as the “Dibrary” is lined with black-painted bookshelves and features an upholstered built-in bench, offering a cozy retreat for reading, conversation, or games. The main bedroom is angled with windows to capture diverse lake views and features wool carpet and Faribault Woolen Mill blankets for warmth. The property extends to the lakefront with two boathouses. One serves as an entertainment area with a soapstone bar and candy apple red bifolding windows, reflecting Scandinavian vernacular design with black-stained board-and-batten siding and chunky cedar brackets. The second boathouse, a circa-1915 structure, was restored with fieldstones gathered from the shoreline and repurposed sticks for awning window props, and is used as a landing area for canoes. The Murphys' home embodies their deep connection to Lake Pulaski, serving as both a personal sanctuary and a welcoming space for family and friends. #LakePulaski #MinnesotaHome #CottageDesign #ArchitecturalDesign #ScandinavianInfluence #IrishRoots #ReclaimedWood #ScreenedPorch #LakeHouse #FamilyHome

Interior designer Carrie Valentine's home in Mora, Minnesota, known as the Black House, is currently on the market. Valentine has lived in the bucolic-inspired residence since 2021, and it is located on five acres along the Snake River. The design of the house draws inspiration from early American Colonial architecture, incorporating nature-inspired tones and carefully selected materials. Key features of the home's interior include an unlacquered copper soaking tub, antique lighting, lime paint, a marble plaster range hood, and a limestone hearth. Abundant natural light is a significant element, contributing to a lived-in and soulful atmosphere. The overall aesthetic is a European farmhouse style, blending modern and timeless elements, designed to be suitable for a young family. The primary suite and its adjoining bathroom are highlighted as a retreat, particularly featuring the luxurious oversized copper tub. Another significant area of the home is the kitchen, described as warm and spacious, capable of hosting large gatherings. This family-favorite space is filled with natural light and seamlessly connects to the dining room, making it a central hub of the house. Mya Honeywell, the listing agent from Coldwell Banker Realty, emphasizes the patina of the Black House, referring to the quiet confidence of materials that improve with age. She notes that the landscape also reflects this philosophy, planted with native species and fruit trees that cycle through seasons, restoring the soil and honoring time, touch, and transformation. Valentine, a native Minnesotan, expressed a deep connection to the rural landscape. With assistance from Minnesota Native Landscapes, an acre of the property was restored to support pollinators and a thriving ecosystem. The land also features apple, pear, and cherry trees. Valentine hopes the next homeowner will continue to build on this vision and enjoy both the natural environment and the home itself. The property offers opportunities for exploring winding trails, enjoying evenings by the river, or gathering around a fire pit under the stars, presenting potential for a peaceful retreat, a hobby farm, or a space for growth. #CarrieValentine #HomeDesign #RealEstate #Minnesota #BucolicStyle #InteriorDesign #EuropeanFarmhouse

This article highlights a 6,810-square-foot, two-story residence in Eden Prairie, Minnesota, designed and built by Michael Paul Design + Build, specifically for an active family of five. The project, overseen by CEO/owner Michael Laumann, prominently featured the contributions of Natalie Talley from Talley Jane Interiors and Maggie Tarr from Margaret Jane Design Group, emphasizing a collaborative and 'girl power' driven effort. The home's design successfully blends "Midwest modern" aesthetics with functionality and entertainment, catering to the family's dynamic lifestyle. The residence boasts extensive recreational amenities, including a two-level sport court, an outdoor pool, an exercise room, an indoor faux hockey rink, and a 21-foot rock climbing wall, alongside a family bonus room for movies and a dedicated craft area for children. The interior design emphasizes durability and practicality, incorporating performance fabrics in various colors, leather upholstery to prevent staining, and vinyl wall coverings, selected for their resilience against the wear and tear of an active household. Talley Jane Interiors was chosen by the homeowners after their positive impression of her work on the 2019 Luxury Home Tour. The aesthetic of the home is characterized by a "Midwest modern" style, achieved through the integration of rustic-style beams and columns, and a selection of natural materials. Key material choices include Italian marble, a walnut-clad refrigerator, and dark-wash wood floors. The home also features custom oak, walnut, and painted cabinets and built-ins, complemented by a sophisticated color palette of grays ranging from jet black to taupe. This approach aims for an earthy look without being overtly rustic, creating a refined yet natural atmosphere. Notable architectural and design features include a modern floating staircase at the front of the home, a generously sized 'chef-inspired' back pantry, and breathtaking views of the Minnesota River Valley, particularly from the master bedroom and the entire second level. Michael Laumann emphasized the prime location of the lot, describing it as one of the top ten in the metro area, with the design goal of maximizing these views. The project successfully met the clients' objectives, providing a home that offers comfort, refuge, and ample opportunities for family activities and memory-making, such as impromptu hockey matches. The house details include five bedrooms, seven bathrooms, and a blend of rustic and modern design elements. #HomeDesign #MidwestModern #LuxuryHome #FamilyFriendlyDesign #InteriorDesign #ResidentialArchitecture #CustomBuild #EdenPrairie #RecreationalAmenities

This article delves into the design of a modern cabin home in Istanbul's Kemer Country, Göktürk, focusing on its seamless integration with the natural forest environment. The homeowner's primary brief to the Istanbul-based studio, Escapefromsofa, was to create a contemporary, comfortable, and practical living space that effortlessly blended both aesthetically and functionally with its rural surroundings. The design team, comprising architect Mahmut Kefel, interior architect Kerem Erçin, and interior designer İrem Başer, aimed to make the home feel like a natural extension of the woodlands, emphasizing an indoor-outdoor living concept. A significant challenge for the design team was to construct a modern home that not only harmonized with the natural landscape but also possessed a timeless presence. This involved carefully selecting materials and finishes that would age gracefully, contributing to a sense of history and continuity. To address this, the team prioritized natural and sustainable materials that would blend with the environment. For the exterior, specific materials were chosen to ensure the house looked as if it had always been a part of the landscape, creating an evolving narrative over time. Inside, the use of natural materials such as wood and stone was crucial, with their organic textures and colors chosen to complement the outdoor scenery. Wooden beams and flooring, alongside stone accents, contributed to a rustic yet sophisticated ambiance. The interior color palette was another critical element in achieving the desired blend. The designers opted for earthy, muted tones enriched with elegant touches and various textures, all mirroring the natural beauty of the surrounding forest. The architectural design further enhanced the connection to nature through high ceilings and large windows, which were strategically incorporated to invite ample natural light and outdoor views into the living spaces. These design choices fostered a serene and peaceful atmosphere, making the home feel immersed in the forest. Furniture placement and open-plan layouts were carefully planned to direct attention towards the windows and the expansive vistas beyond. This ensured that sightlines remained unobstructed, encouraging residents to engage with the natural beauty outside. A highlight for the Escapefromsofa team was the open-plan downstairs living area. They found particular enjoyment in combining high ceilings with exposed wooden beams, which created a striking architectural feature and added rustic charm. The integration of the living room and kitchen into a single fluid space promoted a seamless flow, making it ideal for socializing and entertaining. Warm wooden tones were consistently used throughout the kitchen cabinetry and flooring to maintain a cohesive and inviting atmosphere. The project successfully met its initial objective, delivering a home that is both welcoming and cozy, yet chic and sophisticated. The final design stands as a tribute to its beautiful natural surroundings, embodying the philosophy that the home should be an integral part of its environment. The design choices underscore a commitment to creating a living space that feels naturally evolved and deeply connected to nature, reflecting a modern lifestyle within a harmonious, organic setting. #InteriorDesign #ModernCabin #NaturalMaterials #IndoorOutdoorLiving #SustainableDesign #EarthTones #OpenPlanLiving #ArchitecturalDesign #ForestHome

The 2021 Luxury Home Tour features an elegant estate in Eden Prairie, designed and built by Michael Paul Design + Build. This residence is tailored to accommodate a family with three active children, integrating various recreational spaces while maximizing the scenic views of its elevated lot overlooking the Minnesota River. The property spans 6,810 square feet and includes five bedrooms and seven bathrooms, embodying a Midwest modern architectural style. Key design elements prioritize both functionality for an active family and aesthetic appeal. The home is equipped with a sport court, a rock climbing wall, an indoor faux-ice hockey rink, and an outdoor pool. Each child also has their individual space within the home. To withstand heavy foot traffic, low-maintenance wood flooring was installed throughout. The interior design, a collaboration between Michael Paul Design + Build and Talley Jane Interiors, focuses on creating seamless transitions between clean lines and rustic elements. Architectural details include a striking metal floating staircase featuring rustic treads and an all-metal railing. White oak flooring contributes to a casual yet elegant atmosphere, complemented by a mix of various wood finishes, bright enamel woodwork, and colored cabinets. The lower level is designed for entertainment, featuring a large bar that opens directly to the backyard pool area. One of the most notable features of the property is the private master suite. Michael Laumann, CEO and owner of Michael Paul Design + Build, highlights the exceptional location of the home, referring to it as one of the best lots in the southwest metro. The master deck offers expansive and impressive views of the river valley. The integration of robust recreational facilities with sophisticated design ensures the home meets the needs of its active occupants while providing a luxurious living environment. #LuxuryHomeTour #MichaelPaulDesignBuild #EdenPrairie #MidwestModern #FamilyHomeDesign #ArchitecturalDesign #InteriorDesign #SportCourt #OutdoorLiving

Lisa and Gary Mieran, owners of Akyrah Kitchens, designed and largely built their two-storey, industrial-style home with modernist influences in Gympie, Queensland. The house, completed in December 2019 after a two-stage construction, is situated on land historically owned by Lisa's family. The design draws inspiration from Heide II, a modernist icon in Melbourne, celebrating concrete, timber, abundant light, and earthy tones. Lisa envisioned a home that would rise organically from the earth, becoming an integral part of the landscape and improving with age. The structure features off-form concrete, walls of glass, and tactile timbers, with the lower storey clad in cedar and the upper storey in recycled hardwood. Steel balustrading, handcrafted by Gary, complements the exterior, which also includes a swimming pool with Andorra limestone pavers. The interior features a breezeway offering spectacular views and airflow, with ceilings made of Henley Oak Grove engineered timber. The foyer includes a BassamFellows 'Geometric' day bed and artworks by Steve Waller. Given their expertise with Akyrah Kitchens, the kitchen in their home is a highlight, featuring blackbutt veneer doors, Basaltina benchtops, Circa taps from Brodware, and Inax 'Ceravio G' tiles. The living areas include a guest sitting area with a B&B Italia 'Le Bambole' sofa and a living room with a Cheminées Philippe fireplace and Jardan furnishings. The home was built in two stages to accommodate their grown children, Taren and Kirra. The first stage was a self-contained flat, which served as their temporary residence during the main build and now functions as a guest wing. The main house and another guest wing are connected by glassed walkways, with the main bedroom suite located upstairs. This design allows for three self-contained bedrooms with ensuites, providing private quarters for everyone while centralizing communal living spaces. Practicality and functionality are key design principles, evident in the integrated laundry within the bathroom behind a blackbutt joinery feature wall, and the kitchen's two large islands designed for simplicity and ample storage. The materials used throughout the home emphasize natural elements. Recycled timber is used for the upper storey and blackbutt joinery adds warmth, while the seamless flow of concrete from exterior to interior reinforces the architectural aesthetic. The home is designed for climate control, with generous light for winter warmth and cross-breezes for summer cooling. Lisa also undertook the landscaping, incorporating native plants like Xanthorrhoea, pandanus, native grasses, and succulents. The furniture, much of it Australian-made from brands like Jardan, is chosen for its timeless appeal and durability, reflecting the couple's preference for classic design over fleeting trends. The house stands as a testament to the couple's comprehensive involvement and shared vision, combining their professional skills with personal passions to create a harmonious and functional living space. #ModernistArchitecture #IndustrialStyle #ConcreteDesign #TimberAccents #SustainableMaterials #HomeDesign #OwnerBuilt #QueenslandHome #InteriorDesign

Designer Krysta Gibbons, a principal at Minneapolis-based Kipling House Interiors, embarked on a unique challenge to construct a new home that would seamlessly blend with its historic neighborhood, mimicking the character of 100-year-old residences rather than appearing as a modern 'glass box.' When a grand estate in her neighborhood was demolished, creating six prime city lots, Gibbons seized the opportunity to build from the ground up after selling her own home. Her primary goal was to create a new construction that felt storied and soulful, making it indistinguishable from older homes in the area. Gibbons focused on creating a floor plan that optimized space for her family of five while emulating the interiors of the historic period. The kitchen design was central to this vision, with Gibbons noting that a vibrant kitchen aesthetic influences surrounding spaces. She drew inspiration from the historic mansions of Newport, Rhode Island, incorporating elements like floor-to-ceiling tiles, center table islands, and large hoods. A visit to La Mercerie restaurant in New York City, known for its timeless feel despite being relatively new, further inspired her approach to use textiles in muted colors and surfaces with worn patinas. She aimed for the entire house to evoke a sense of aged elegance, as if the fabric had faded and paint had yellowed, avoiding a 'too fresh' appearance. The home features a rich visual tapestry and vintage appeal beyond the kitchen, utilizing a palette of subdued colors such as lavender and deep green, checkerboard floors, antique furniture, and an extensive use of 16 different wallpapers throughout. Gibbons expressed a preference for surfaces to be wallpapered, paneled, plastered, or tiled over drywall, reinforcing the home's layered and textured aesthetic. To further embed a sense of history, she even left notes for future homeowners within the walls, envisioning an ongoing narrative for the house. Each room was designed with meticulous detail and a nod to functionality and aesthetic continuity. The kitchen features a marble-topped island that resembles an antique baker's table, cleverly concealing custom, millimeter-measured drawers for every kitchen tool. The butler's pantry, designed for effortless entertaining, integrates appliances seamlessly behind panels and uses antique mirror inserts to enhance light, creating a luminous yet functional space. A bonus pantry extends the kitchen's utility, providing an accessible area for guests and children, dressed in a soft color palette and a small-scale wallpaper. The great room, the sole entertaining space on the main floor, was designed to comfortably seat eleven without appearing over-furnished, incorporating repurposed vintage items and layered textures. A large Flemish mirror, a long-held possession, found its place above the fireplace, while the television is discreetly hidden. The formal dining room, positioned prominently from the front door, boasts a custom mural and reupholstered vintage chairs, aiming for a theatrical and romantic ambiance. The foyer and vestibule set a quiet yet distinctive tone with paneled walls and a salvaged 1800s gas lantern, respectively. The private spaces continue the home's theme of thoughtful design. The primary bedroom is a serene retreat with blue-gray tones, rust accents, and layered textures, designed for quiet relaxation. The primary bath features Swedish-inspired vanities and marble floors with a subtle lattice motif. The daughters' rooms include a cozy bed nook for privacy and a dedicated lounge area for the three sisters, designed to encourage interaction while providing personal space. Even the younger daughter's playful yet polished bathroom showcases clever use of materials, including salvaged tiles, and a purple grasscloth. Finally, a garden shed, initially presented as a tool shed, was transformed into a secret 'Swiftie headquarters' for the daughters, complete with hand-painted floors and a salvaged church pew, extending the home's personalized and imaginative design outdoors. #InteriorDesign #NewConstruction #HistoricHomes #MinneapolisArchitecture #KrystaGibbons #KiplingHouseInteriors #HomeDecor #CustomDesign #VintageAppeal

This article highlights the design of a new-build modern farmhouse in Tennessee, showcasing a blend of rustic, industrial, and contemporary styles. The project, led by interior designer Adam Hunter, aimed to combine raw, textured qualities with industrial elements while maintaining warmth and an inviting atmosphere. The 383-acre estate features an orchard, ponds, lakes, walking bridges, a private swimming hole, and extensive hiking and biking trails. The design philosophy emphasizes a seamless connection between the stunning natural landscape and purposeful interior design. The great room, a central feature of the home, boasts 38-foot vaulted ceilings that create a sense of grandeur. This space is anchored by a Holly Hunt sofa and a Jane Hallworth Aquila Constellation lighting fixture. Custom two-tone beveled metal fireplace surrounds by Amuneal add balance and warmth to the sitting and dining areas. Adjacent to the kitchen, the dining space features a custom-designed table by Adam Hunter with a live edge and blue resin, complemented by Gregorius Pineo dining chairs and a Mehraban rug. Cerused white oak flooring in a grey wash is used throughout the home, connecting different areas. The kitchen is designed to be strong and impactful, with clear sightlines from the living and dining spaces. Calacatta Viola marble, sourced from KD Style & Co, is a focal point, used for the stylish floating extractor hood, a matching waterfall island, and countertops. Custom cabinetry by Amuneal in a Hunter Bronze finish, Mattaliano pendant lights from Holly Hunt, and Amtrend stools upholstered in a geometric Rosemary Hallgarten fabric contribute to the sophisticated aesthetic. A vibrant fire engine red Lacanche range, Rocky Mountain Hardware sinks, and Waterworks faucets complete the kitchen's luxurious feel. The home includes several distinct seating areas. A more intimate family room features custom leather walls from British purveyor Bill Amberg in a "Batman blue," accented with a bold metal grid trim by Amuneal. The rug in this space is the Zebois design by Adam Hunter for The Rug Company, along with a custom lighting fixture also designed by Hunter. A third living room offers a blend of traditional and contemporary inspirations, merging indoor and outdoor spaces to honor the natural surroundings. Ombré drapery, a Fortuny pendant light, a Blackman Cruz cocktail table, and a custom sofa define this area, while a Fromental Prunus in Pandora cherry blossom design wallcovering brings nature indoors, referencing the estate's 188-tree orchard. The stairway leading to the basement's tornado shelter and wine room showcases a playful design with Adam Hunter's "Smoke Sunset" rug runner, custom Amuneal metal handrailing, and a Lost in Space robot. The primary bedroom features a custom, hand-painted wallpaper by Janet Yonaty, overflowing onto the headboard, with sconces by Holly Hunt Design. A guest bedroom offers a soft, sunny ambiance with a modern mustard yellow bedframe custom designed by Adam Hunter, made by Bespoke Furniture with Citron Mohair Velvet by Cowtan and Tout, and tactile selenite bedside lamps from Thomas Lavin. Sheer white petal design drapery by Stout Textiles adds a romantic touch. The luxurious en-suite bathroom boasts generous proportions, with high ceilings wrapped in reflective silk wallpaper, Calacatta marble surfaces, and extensive marble detailing. Sconces by Alison Berger Glassworks and an impressive chandelier by John Pomp Studios enhance the opulent feel. The property also includes additional spaces for rest and retreat, such as a barn by the lake, a cozy cabin, stables, and a pool house, all designed to immerse inhabitants in the surrounding nature. #ContemporaryFarmhouse #InteriorDesign #RusticIndustrialStyle #LuxuryHome #TennesseeEstate #AdamHunterDesign #MarbleAccents #ModernFarmhouse

The article details the design process and outcome of a new build home in Minneapolis, Minnesota, which was specifically crafted to possess a timeless, lived-in feel, rather than appearing brand new. Interior designer Victoria Sass spearheaded this project for a family of five, collaborating with architecture firm Murphy & Co. The core challenge was to infuse character and an aged aesthetic into a modern construction, a task Sass describes as surprisingly difficult. The design philosophy aimed to avoid the 'too perfect' trap often associated with new builds by incorporating elements that mimic the natural irregularities and evolved nature of older homes, such as slightly unconventional floor plans and asymmetrical shapes. The initial design brief from the homeowners favored an understated, classic American white brick house, reflecting a 'casual but tailored' sensibility. This led to plans emphasizing wooden balconies, large windows, screened verandas, and a traditional porch, all situated to capitalize on the tranquil waterside setting near Minnehaha Creek. The interior adopted a traditional color palette of off-whites, rusts, and caramels, complemented by oak flooring and timber windows, establishing a grounding backdrop across the home's three main living levels. A significant shift occurred in the design direction when the family spent time in Barcelona during a pause in construction. This experience broadened their perspective, prompting a desire for more color and 'joie de vivre' upon their return. Victoria Sass adapted the design to incorporate these new influences, focusing on furniture, fabrics, hardware, and lighting to introduce unexpected and vibrant elements. This strategic re-evaluation led to the inclusion of unique pieces such as a mosaic table made from corn husks, sourced from a Spanish artist, and a sculptural 'Moon light' art installation in the entryway. Further examples of this evolved design approach include a powder room vanity adorned with distinctively mismatched tiles, deliberately chosen to evoke Mediterranean design aesthetics, and a dining room featuring a bespoke wall mural by Ginny Sims. This mural intricately weaves in the family's personal story, adding a deeply customized and playful touch. The snug area boasts a chimney breast finished with hand-fired tiles, which Sass notes might subtly reference Scandinavian coziness, reflecting her husband's Danish heritage. Across the home, there's a strong emphasis on varied textures—from large-scale photographic prints and custom wall sculptures to marbleized wallpaper in the study—contributing to a rich, almost three-dimensional feel. Victoria Sass highlights the delicate balance required to integrate diverse decorative influences while maintaining a cohesive overall aesthetic. She explains that a consistent color palette and careful consideration of scale are crucial for harmonizing these elements. The designer emphasizes that if one design 'dial' is turned up, another must be adjusted to ensure equilibrium. The final result is a home that seamlessly combines classic and experimental features, juxtaposing graphic silhouettes with undulating forms. This blend achieves what Sass terms a 'perfectly imperfect' outcome, effectively transforming a new construction into a residence that embodies the charm and character of an older, well-established home. #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #NewBuild #TimelessArchitecture #MinneapolisHome #VictoriaSass #HomeTours #DesignPhilosophy #ArchitecturalRenovation

The Ishawooa Mesa Ranch in Wyoming is home to a new architectural creation by Lake Flato, designed to be both a sanctuary and a tribute to its wild, majestic surroundings. Located within the Shoshone National Forest, near Yellowstone National Park, the ranch experiences extreme weather conditions, from scorching summers to harsh winters, necessitating a robust and thoughtfully constructed home for its owners and the diverse animal life on its 200-plus acres, including horses, cattle, hogs, chickens, and occasional bears. Steve Raike, a partner at Lake Flato, emphasizes that the design aims for 'thoughtful luxury' while acknowledging the area's inherent wildness. The inspiration for the ranch house draws from the traditional homestead-style log cabins prevalent in the region, which were historically built using locally sourced, readily available materials. This tradition is reinterpreted in the new home through the use of thick cedar wood for part of the façade, stained black to echo the creosote once used to protect older timber structures. Stone, sourced from Montana, further roots the house in its regional context, embodying a 'humble' conceptual approach to the exterior. Internally, the residence transitions into an environment of sophisticated comfort, a balance of rustic charm and contemporary elegance. The interior layout features a central, double-height lounge, kitchen, and dining area, around which all other main rooms are arranged. A monumental fireplace serves as the focal point of this communal space. The homeowners collaborated with interior designer Marnie Wright to select furnishings that align with the home's aesthetic, heavily featuring wood, leather, and steel. The kitchen, notably, is equipped with a roaring fire and a built-in Argentinian grill, designed for large family gatherings. These cook-ups became a regular part of the construction process, fostering a collaborative atmosphere where the architectural team and owners discussed the evolving design. A significant aspect of the project was its commitment to sustainability, which Lake Flato refers to as 'building performance.' This philosophy, shared by the ranch's owners who manage their land organically and support local wildlife preservation, guided critical decisions. The property operates entirely on electricity, utilizing a ground-source pump for both heating and cooling, a choice that Raike proudly notes as a 'rejection of fossil fuels' in a region often associated with traditional energy sources. This approach reflects a forward-thinking environmental consciousness integrated into the home's core design. Adjacent to the main house and connected by a sheltered courtyard stands a large timber-framed barn. While primarily functional for equipment storage and crop processing, it has also served as an event venue, showcasing its versatility. The barn's design, with pull-back doors, allows for expansive panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, which are also visible through the carefully positioned windows of the main residence. Raike highlights that the design enables occupants to 'appreciate and inhabit the landscape without feeling tiny, insignificant, and at the mercy of the elements,' underscoring the harmonious relationship between the architecture and its spectacular natural setting. #WyomingRanch #LakeFlato #SustainableArchitecture #RusticLuxury #RegionalDesign #EnvironmentalConsciousness #ShoshoneNationalForest #HighAltitudeLiving #ThoughtfulLuxury

This article details the design and construction of a new 4,000-square-foot residence built on a sand dune along Lake Michigan’s eastern shoreline in Saugatuck by architect Kevin Toukoumidis, founding principal of dSPACE Studio. The project began with the challenge of a 4-acre site, where zoning regulations limited the buildable area to a mere 40-by-50-foot footprint. Furthermore, a 2007 fire had decimated the undeveloped dune, necessitating extensive replanting of native vegetation such as dune grass, junipers, and cacti to stabilize the landscape and eventually obscure the structure naturally. The design philosophy aimed to blur the lines between architecture, art, and nature, creating a home that responds innovatively to coastal living amidst sand hills. The residence was designed to sit lightly on its constricted footprint, appearing as a single-story structure from the entry but revealing a full-height glazed facade towards the lake as the land slopes away. The ultra-thin steel-frame roof, though appearing flat, subtly slopes upward to maximize views of the sky and water. From the shore, only the upper portion of the house is visible, characterized by a low-slung composition clad in sand-color stucco and sheltered by broad eaves lined with amber-toned hemlock planks, which integrate the structure into the natural setting. Connecting to nature was a primary goal, leading to the creation of abundant outdoor spaces, including a two-tier ipe deck with distinct dining and lounging areas, a slender lap-pool terrace, and an upper-level lake-facing balcony. These outdoor areas are paved with tawny porcelain stoneware, a material consistently used for interior floors and countertops, further linking the indoor and outdoor environments. A key design element is the entry courtyard, conceived as a space for welcome, transition, and respite, featuring a central ginkgo tree. The courtyard is enclosed by a palisade of rotatable Cor-Ten panels that act as a kinetic sculpture and front gate. These 1⁄2-inch-thick steel vanes can be angled to frame specific views of the house or the forested hillside, while also providing shelter from the wind. A pergola-like roof extension with fixed aluminum louvers defines the courtyard as an outdoor room and offers protection from intense midday sun. A fire bowl, chairs, and a custom bench with a Cor-Ten wine bottle holder create a hospitable setting for outdoor entertaining. The home's interior layout includes an upper level with a great room flanked by the balcony and pool terrace, a glass-enclosed dining room, and the main bedroom with an adjoining screened porch. The lower floor, emerging from the dune, houses two guest bedrooms with a shared patio and glass-walled showers overlooking the water, a bunk room, and a flexible room currently used as a home gym. The interior material and color palettes are deliberately limited, featuring porcelain stoneware, oak, and painted plaster, to create a sense of calmness and uniformity. This minimalist approach ensures that the lake and landscape remain the focal points, enjoyed through extensive eco-friendly triple-pane glazing, including a 30-foot-long wall of sliding doors in the great room. Striking design pieces, such as Konstantin Grcic's Noctambule pendant fixture over the kitchen island, blend subtly with the expansive views. Furniture, including contemporary pieces, modernist classics, and custom built-ins, is elegantly low-key and functional, such as Hans Wegner's Elbow chairs and Pierre Paulin swivel chairs, which are chosen for their ability to maximize engagement with the natural surroundings. The home seamlessly merges architecture with the natural environment, offering a tranquil retreat that evolves with the landscape. #LakeMichiganHome #Saugatuck #dSPACEStudio #ModernArchitecture #SustainableDesign #CoastalLiving #IndoorOutdoorLiving #ArchitecturalDesign #LuxuryHomes

Carson and Dori Boneck, former Wicker Park residents, initially envisioned themselves as city dwellers but shifted their perspective when searching for a suitable lot to build a new home. After two years of unsuccessful searching in the city for a sufficiently sized lot, they decided to move to Wilmette, seeking large, functional living spaces for their two young children. The result was a 4,600-square-foot modern farmhouse completed in 2013, featuring six bedrooms and five bathrooms. The interior architecture and design were handled by Kelley Audrain of Audrain Architecture and Cookie Weber of Inside Job. The design brief was to combine Dori's rural upbringing with their years of city living, aiming for a balance of rustic charm and urban edge. This fusion is evident in the home's exterior, which features traditional white board-and-batten siding punctuated by a black door and black window casings, giving the classic farmhouse a modern feel. This palette extends indoors, where one-inch-thick jambs around doors and windows are painted a deep gray, a design choice initially daunting but ultimately defining for the house. The designers emphasized creating a lived-in and comfortable atmosphere, incorporating rustic elements throughout the new construction. A sliding barn door connects Carson's office and the living room, adding texture. A woven-oak chandelier by Chicago artist Lucy Slivinski draws attention to exposed ceiling beams. In the dining room, a reclaimed wood mantel contrasts with contemporary metallic wall covering. Furnishings primarily consist of refurbished mid-century pieces from Knoll, Risom, and Eames, upholstered in kid-friendly fabrics, alongside new and custom items. The kitchen features a rustic table from Anthropologie paired with a bench and chairs from Skokie-based New Breed Furniture Network, a company also responsible for Carson's desk and the master suite's bedside tables. The Bonecks prioritized supporting local artisans and vendors over catalog purchases. A distinctive feature of the home is its bold use of wallpaper, much of it from the Dutch company Eijffinger. This is applied in the dining room, powder room, and children's rooms, introducing an element of surprise, layers of color, and depth that transform potentially quiet spaces. The overall design successfully achieves the Bonecks' goal of a home that blends city and country aesthetics, and modern and rustic styles, creating a unique and satisfying living environment. #ModernFarmhouse #WilmetteRealEstate #HomeDesign #InteriorArchitecture #RusticUrbanBlend #CustomFurniture #WallpaperDesign #SuburbanLiving

Lauren and Jason Muir embarked on a significant renovation of their 1900-built Parkside home after returning to Adelaide from London and Sydney. The couple purchased the property in its original condition in late 2020, with renovation plans beginning almost immediately. However, due to pandemic-related delays and council approvals, construction didn't commence until two years later. Lauren, a strategy executive at Westpac, expressed the importance of honoring the home's 1900 heritage while integrating a modern aesthetic, a design philosophy inspired by Victorian homes in London's southwest. A key design objective was to create a seamless transition between the original structure and the new extension. This was achieved by extending the original timber floors throughout the house and meticulously matching architectural details like architraves. The couple also focused on cohesive styling, using art to introduce color and enhance flow between the old and new sections of the home. The front of the house retained its original character, while the rear extension was designed to complement it with a contemporary feel. The renovation project involved collaboration with The Building Company and Mavtect Designs, successfully navigating council requirements that mandated the extension not be visible from the street. Specific features desired by the couple included a wine cellar, which Jason envisioned as a space where one could walk down and be enveloped by wine. Lauren's primary desire for the living space was an abundance of natural light. While the front of the house, with its older structure and tree coverage, remained darker, the extension was designed to maximize light, leading to the creation of a seven-meter raked ceiling and a large wall of glass. This architectural choice not only floods the living area with light but also provides a view of the century-old hedge in the backyard, which offers significant privacy and a natural green wall effect. Outdoor spaces were also a crucial component of the renovation. With the help of Husk Projects and Evoke Outdoors for landscaping, Lauren and Jason created dedicated outdoor entertaining areas and a sauna area. The sauna was specifically inspired by Sequoia Lodge, aiming to replicate its serene garden setting where one could relax after using the sauna, creating a retreat-like atmosphere. The Parkside home became a labor of love, offering a convenient urban lifestyle, with easy access to parklands and local amenities. Despite their affection for the renovated Parkside home, the Muir family is now moving to Stirling in pursuit of more space for their young children. Their new 1920s home also requires renovation, signaling Lauren's continued preference for restoring older properties over new builds. The sale of the Parkside property, located at 9 Douglas Street, is being managed by Georgie Todd and Alexandra Green of Harris Real Estate, marking the end of one project and the beginning of another for the family. #HeritageHome #ParksideRenovation #ModernExtension #ArchitecturalDesign #LuxuryLiving #HomeRenovation #AdelaideRealEstate #InteriorDesign #OutdoorLiving

This article details the transformation of a new-build property into a characterful family home with a country-style charm, achieved through careful planning and a keen eye for design. The owners, who acquired the house as a blank canvas due to its practical benefits and ideal location near family, the countryside, and transport links, embarked on a decade-long journey to personalize their space. They focused on injecting personality into the neutral scheme, ensuring the home reflected their tastes while accommodating their growing family, including a new daughter and two dogs. The kitchen-diner, though small, was designed for both functionality and intimacy, facilitating family interaction during meal preparation and hosting cozy dinner parties. The owners introduced red and green accents to add character and warmth to the otherwise neutral palette. The red provided richness, while the green offered a calming, natural balance. To delineate the dining area, they installed wall paneling and added open shelving made from repurposed scaffolding planks, which not only offered practical storage but also served as a canvas for decorative displays, allowing for personal touches and regular aesthetic updates. The original kitchen lacked personality, prompting a renovation that aimed to blend contemporary style with classic country charm without a complete overhaul. This involved incorporating zellige tiles, replacing standard door fronts with traditional Shaker kitchen cupboard doors, and swapping a stainless-steel sink for a ceramic one. To conceal non-integrated large appliances, green linen curtains were used, contributing to a softer, less cluttered look. The chosen paint for the doors was Farrow & Ball's School House White Estate Eggshell, complemented by angled spotlights in Antique Brass to enhance the desired aesthetic. In the living room, the goal was to create a cozy, multi-functional space, as it was the most frequented area. Wall paneling was introduced to add texture, depth, and a cozier feel to the plain walls. The room was further enriched with layers of natural materials, varied textures, and warm, earthy tones, transforming it into a comfortable and inviting environment. The primary seating in this room is an Otto medium RHF chaise sofa in Taupe Brushed linen Cotton. The bedroom showcases a bolder approach to color, utilizing Farrow & Ball’s Setting Plaster for walls and wardrobes to create a warm and cozy atmosphere. A luxurious dark green velvet headboard was incorporated to add richness and elegance, making the bed a focal point without significant expense. The unexpected pairing of pink and green hues was a deliberate choice to infuse fresh energy and dynamism into the narrow space, reflecting the owner's personal style and achieving a boutique hotel aesthetic for a calm retreat. Practical elements like sheer linen curtains were chosen for affordability, softness, and diffused natural light. The home office was designed as a calm and creative space, featuring a soft color palette and a blend of different wood tones and grains. This approach aimed to add warmth, texture, and a balanced, natural feel, ensuring a conducive environment for work. For the compact bathroom, instead of a costly renovation, simple updates were made, including a bespoke curtain, vintage-framed artwork, mirrors, and soft towels to introduce color and texture, making the space more engaging. Thoughtful styling is evident throughout the home, particularly with organized living room shelves that display books and objets d’art. Books are often arranged with their spines hidden to maintain an artful and consistent look. Built-in cabinetry, combining Ikea units and MDF, provides both lower storage for children's toys and open shelving for decorative items, adding character and functionality to the room. The daughter's bedroom was designed to be adaptable as she grows, maintaining a neutral scheme with pops of color and playful touches, while incorporating functional and charming storage solutions like peg rails for coats and bags, encouraging tidiness and accessibility for toy storage. Overall, the home demonstrates how a new-build can be transformed into a deeply personalized and character-filled space through deliberate design choices and the strategic use of color, texture, and materials. #NewBuildDesign #CountryStyleHome #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #KitchenDinerIdeas #LivingRoomDecor #BedroomDesign #HomeOffice #FamilyHome

Designer Heather Peterson utilized her South Minneapolis family home as a creative laboratory to explore design concepts not yet ready for client projects. What began as a plan for a quick refresh during the pandemic evolved into a comprehensive overhaul involving her entire firm, fostering ideation and innovation among the team. Peterson aimed to showcase a more eclectic, spirited, and modern aesthetic compared to her typical client work, transforming her home into both a personal living space and a design portfolio piece. The main challenge involved designing for her own idiosyncratic tastes and integrating existing high-quality fixtures that she chose not to remove. The home, originally built in 2007, featured a 'modern Scandi' and 'contemporary A-frame' style, providing a strong foundation that Peterson and her team enhanced with rich colors, graphic shapes, and numerous vintage finds to infuse personality. The project also emphasized collaboration with local Minneapolis vendors, highlighting a 'love affair' with the city's talented and unique suppliers. The home spans 2,100 square feet, featuring 3 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms. The living room's layout presented a challenge due to multiple entry points and architectural quirks, including an off-center window and an odd structural element. Peterson addressed this by employing symmetry, leveraging vintage furniture, including a redwood burl coffee table inherited from her parents, to balance the space and add character. Adjacent to the living room is the versatile "Room of Requirement," named after the Harry Potter concept, which has served various functions such as a home office, Lego room, music room, and library. This space is currently a cozy flex area used for work, art, and family game nights. Peterson reinforced its cocoon-like ambiance with a custom brown paint, contrasting white elements, and ample storage to accommodate books, trinkets, and art. The dining room, central to the house with sightlines to several other areas, was designed to anchor the home’s aesthetic through a mix of colors, textures, and silhouettes. To add volume and prevent it from feeling like a mere pass-through, Peterson incorporated a large pendant light, an armoire, and artwork, complemented by cork wallcovering and an embroidered rug. In the kitchen, Peterson opted for a cosmetic facelift rather than an extensive renovation, satisfied with its existing layout and functionality. She transformed the space into a focal point of the first floor by applying a bold, 1970s-inspired green paint to the cabinetry and adding oversized ceramic knobs for a whimsical touch. A countertop lamp contributed to the ambiance, emphasizing Peterson's preference for varied lighting. The powder room was revitalized within its original structure, featuring a fresh coat of Farrow and Ball's Preference Red paint on the washstand-style sink and Sandberg's Raphael wallpaper, a long-loved choice that adds a magical feel to the small space. Theo’s room, for her eldest child, combines bold prints with a sophisticated navy and oxblood palette, using faux-wainscoting and a tall bed system to optimize the room's proportions. The primary bedroom, visible from multiple public areas, was designed for coziness and visual appeal, with paper-backed William Morris fabric on the walls, blending historical and modern elements. The room incorporates three florals and two patchworks, maintaining a dynamic yet cohesive look with a tight color palette. Eleri's room, for her daughter, despite its small size and upholstered goods, achieves visual interest and a calm atmosphere through subtle prints and a palette of dusty blues, greens, and mustard. The primary bathroom retains many original finishes, with strategic updates like Fireclay's rosemary tile, which, with its varied glaze, integrates seamlessly with the marble floor. Wicker accents add warmth, while red faucets introduce a lively element, with textiles completing the cohesive design. Heather Peterson Design is based in Minneapolis, Minnesota, and focuses on translating client tastes into personal, functional, and stylish homes, embracing diverse design styles and blending client preferences into cohesive designs. This home tour serves as a testament to Peterson’s design philosophy and her firm’s creative capabilities. #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #EclecticStyle #MinneapolisDesign #HeatherPetersonDesign #VintageDecor #ColorPalette #RoomDecorating #HomeTour