Houzz Tours
Houzz Tour: A Durable New Custom Home Opens to Serene Lake Views
Long-lasting materials are designed to weather brutal Minnesota winters, and large windows bring in sunlight and cheer
Designer Brooke Voss set out to create a contemporary home with “hints of farmhouse” that would perfectly suit a family of five. Focusing on tough materials to withstand the Minnesota weather, Voss used fiber cement board siding and steel roofing portions while bringing in views of Lake Minnetonka with lots of glass.
A square car court leads to the garage and front entry of the home.
A bridge takes people from the court to the front door, creating a dramatic entrance that addresses the significant grade change. A modern-day hardscape “moat” below requires no gardening and accommodates runoff from rainfall and snowmelt.
Inside, a steel and cable screened divider defines the space while allowing views straight through to the lake immediately upon arrival. A reclaimed wood floor on a loft forms the ceiling over the entry.
Large windows fill a stairwell with natural light. For the staircase, glulam treads sit on a hot-rolled steel spine. Motorized shades provide privacy as needed.
Large windows fill a stairwell with natural light. For the staircase, glulam treads sit on a hot-rolled steel spine. Motorized shades provide privacy as needed.
Hardwood flooring reclaimed from an old Wisconsin factory came with years of wear and tear, so the family doesn’t have to worry about treading lightly.
Voss commissioned several local craftsmen to create interesting pieces, such as a custom chandelier, a reclaimed walnut dining table, and chairs and a bench made from woven seat belts that are “indestructible and comfortable,” Voss says.
Dining table: Wood from the Hood; chandelier: Hennepin Made
Voss commissioned several local craftsmen to create interesting pieces, such as a custom chandelier, a reclaimed walnut dining table, and chairs and a bench made from woven seat belts that are “indestructible and comfortable,” Voss says.
Dining table: Wood from the Hood; chandelier: Hennepin Made
The kitchen gets a cool, custom periwinkle pop, inspired by one of the homeowner’s favorite scarves. Mixed materials include low-luster, nearly raw walnut upper cabinets around the windows. Stainless steel seamlessly stretches from the countertops to the backsplash.
Caesarstone is used on the island. A second sink here provides a spot for prep and cooking.
Rug: Aubry Angelo; pendants: Hudson Valley Lighting
Caesarstone is used on the island. A second sink here provides a spot for prep and cooking.
Rug: Aubry Angelo; pendants: Hudson Valley Lighting
The kitchen has plenty of room for kids to belly up to the island and also opens to a deck that looks to the lake.
Bar stools: Johnston Casuals; silver “pony” upholstery: Osborne & Little
Bar stools: Johnston Casuals; silver “pony” upholstery: Osborne & Little
In the living room, windows with enameled black casing frame expansive lake views. A wood ceiling offers warmth and contrast to the concrete floor. A flannel wool sofa and chunky cable-knit rug add more texture to the space.
Sofa and ottoman: American Leather; womb chair: Knoll
Sofa and ottoman: American Leather; womb chair: Knoll
A loft TV and game area overlooks the living room and forms a ceiling for the entry and corner reading nook.
Confetti-stye windows dot part of the loft wall. A huge fan circulates fresh air coming in from the screened doors for cooling in the summer months.
Fan: Big Ass Fans
Fan: Big Ass Fans
The master bathroom features two floating vanities with Caesarstone countertops. Monochromatic floor tile recedes to keep the focus on the stunning view.
Sconces: Sara, Tech Lighting; tile: Villeroy & Boch, Uson Tile Solutions
Sconces: Sara, Tech Lighting; tile: Villeroy & Boch, Uson Tile Solutions
On the lower level, a large glulam beam provides structure for an entertainment and game area with heated concrete floors to keep the space cozy during chilly Midwest winters.
Modern furnishings, such as Eames chairs, keep the look clean while industrial bulkhead lights dot the exposed concrete walls for what Voss calls “an artistic, yet functional lighting installation.”
Work table: Blu Dot
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Modern furnishings, such as Eames chairs, keep the look clean while industrial bulkhead lights dot the exposed concrete walls for what Voss calls “an artistic, yet functional lighting installation.”
Work table: Blu Dot
Browse more homes by style: Apartments | Barn Homes | Colorful Homes | Contemporary Homes | Eclectic Homes | Farmhouses | Floating Homes | Guesthouses | Homes Around the World | Lofts | Midcentury Homes | Modern Homes | Ranch Homes | Small Homes | Townhouses | Traditional Homes | Transitional Homes | Vacation Homes
Houzz at a Glance
Who lives here: A family of five
Location: Lake Minnetonka, Minnesota
Designer: Brooke Voss Design
After scoring a desirable lakeside lot, an energetic family of five craved a modern, open home that felt very connected to its natural surroundings. Voss worked closely with Rehkamp Larson Architects and general contractor Kraemer & Sons to help design a striking, durable home.
In the rear, each floor maximizes windows to face the lake for “an absolute focus on outdoor living,” Voss says.