After completing several personal projects and collaborating on another custom build, we decided it was time to create a home entirely our own.
We knew we wanted to stay in a neighborhood we loved, but beyond that, we were ready to push ourselves creatively. While many homes in the area lean either transitional, traditional or more contemporary, we were drawn to something different—a home with contemporary influences, warmth, and personality, while still feeling timeless enough to grow with our family.
The result was a slab-on-grade home spanning just over 6,000 square feet, thoughtfully designed around the way our family lives. With four children, functionality drove many of the decisions. Four bedrooms are located upstairs, along with a main-floor guest suite, dedicated office, oversized mudroom, and generous gathering spaces that support the daily rhythm of a busy household.
One of our highest priorities was creating a strong connection between indoor and outdoor living. A screened porch with heaters and expansive 16-foot sliding doors allows us to enjoy Minnesota’s changing seasons while remaining connected to the backyard. Outside, a sport court provides endless opportunities for play, and the layout was intentionally designed to accommodate a future outdoor kitchen and entertaining area.
Architecturally, we were inspired by mid-century design principles—clean lines, large expanses of glass, simple forms, and a connection to nature. The exterior palette combines earthy olive and khaki tones with darker accents, creating a home that feels grounded within its surroundings while offering a distinct departure from the homes around it.
Inside, we embraced warmth and texture through deep stained ash cabinetry, flat-panel detailing, natural materials, and carefully layered finishes. While the overall aesthetic leans contemporary, we wanted the home to feel approachable rather than stark. Moments of personality were introduced through terrazzo-inspired elements, sculptural lighting, dramatic fireplace features, and thoughtfully selected textures throughout the home.
Designed for both recreation and everyday life, the home also includes a dedicated golf simulator room connected to an oversized playroom, creating a space where adults and kids can gather year-round. The detached four-car garage serves not only as vehicle storage but as an extension of the home’s flexible living space, offering room for hobbies, equipment, and active family life during Minnesota winters.
More than anything, this home reflects our belief that great design should support the people who live in it. Every decision—from the oversized mudroom to the expansive windows and indoor-outdoor spaces—was made with the goal of creating a home that feels beautiful, functional, and deeply personal.
This project challenged us creatively, pushed us to think differently, and ultimately became one of our favorite homes to date.
Behind the Build
Although this was our family’s home, I was heavily involved in every phase of the project. From the initial vision and design direction to contractor coordination and final installation, I helped guide the home from concept to completion.
My responsibilities included design development, budgeting, bidding and trade partner selection, material procurement, scheduling, site coordination, and quality control throughout construction. Being involved at every stage allowed me to ensure the finished home reflected the original vision while balancing budget, functionality, and long-term value.
This hands-on approach is central to how I approach every project: thoughtful planning, intentional design, and diligent execution working together to create a home that feels both beautiful and livable.
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