There is an old adage that too many cooks spoil the broth. In the case of this lakeside 1950s split-level rambler, remodeled into a prairie/arts-and-crafts style home, this couldn't be further from the truth.
The owners, both avid art collectors, commissioned not only architects and builders, but also skilled artisans to create features to make each room stand out.
The couple had lived in the Minneapolis area for many years and immediately saw the potential in the original house, which overlooks Lake Calhoun.
"We love natural wood and the colors found in nature. This architectural style integrates well with the landscape. We knew we wanted to create a house that maximized the interplay between what was going on inside and outside."
Architect Jerry Allan from Criteria Architects used the original structure to create a prairie-style house made of stucco, stone and cherry.
To downplay the prominence of the garage at the front of the house, an extra balcony was added and the roof changed from a hip to a gable style.
The ceiling was raised three feet to accommodate the transom windows in the main level of the house.
Solid wood beams are a feature of both the interior and exterior, creating a seamless look throughout.
One of the challenges for Allan was trying to create a sense of transparency in such a small house.
A linear arrangement called enfilade was used to create views of the lake that extend the length of the house.
The footprint of the house has essentially remained the same. Only an extra 12 feet at the rear of the house to extend existing rooms and a glass conservatory were added.
Located on the south-west corner of the house, the conservatory enjoys plenty of natural light.
The structure has its own heating and electrical system and mechanical shades on the glass roof.
The focal point of the conservatory is an ornate fireplace featuring a ceramic leaf design by artist Eric Rattan.
The leaves appear to have fallen from the sky and puddled at the foot of the hearth.
The house features a large collection of artwork, including many stained glass pieces depicting nature scenes.
"It's a real challenge to create a home that has lots of open vistas, yet has enough walls for artwork," says the owners.
Recessed downlights, ornate wall sconces, antique lamps, and pendant lights create a soft ambience.
Both Allan and the builder, Vujovich Design Build, enjoyed the opportunity to work with such artistic clients.
"It was a real luxury to have the allied artisans who crafted the fireplaces, doors and other speciality elements. This really enhanced the environment," says Allan.
The remodeling of this house saw Vujovich Design Build win the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) 2004 Contractor of the Year for the entire house over $1m category.
A prairie-style home was created from the original 1950s structure using stucco, stone and wood.
An extra balcony was added and the roof changed from a hip to a gable style to downplay the prominence of the garage at the front of the house.
The footprint of the house has not altered dramatically from the original 1950s split-level rambler.
The interiors feature cherry woodwork and solid wood beams.
The dining room opens into the conservatory and the living room, with views of the lake visible from all three.
The house features a large collection of artwork, including this stained glass door in the kitchen.
The dining room opens into the conservatory and the living room, with views of the lake visible from all three.
The English-style conservatory is a favourite addition for all those involved in the remodeling of this house. It features its own heating and electrical system and has mechanical shades on the roof.
This ornate fireplace, featuring a ceramic leaf design by artist Eric Rattan, is a focal point of the conservatory. Some of the leaves are cut into the slate floor, while others have been left loose so they can be arranged in different configurations.
All rooms in the house reflect the owners' passion for art. They wanted their lakeside home to be a work of art also.
The powder room features a hand-blown glass bowl by Robert Jones Design and hand-forged bronze sconces by Bryan Leo.
A back-lit stained glass window in the master bathroom is complemented with ornate mirrors and tapware, and period lighting.
A wine grotto under the stairs reflects the owners' desire to have specialty features throughout the house.
The library features a custom fireplace surround by artist Laura McCaul.
Credit List
Architect
:
Jerry Allan, Criteria Architects (Afton, MN)
Builder
:
Vujovich Design Build, NARI
Stucco
:
Donnelly Brothers
Stone
:
Chilton rustic stone by Stonecrafters
Shake
:
Shingleside Heritage shingles from James Hardie
Deck
:
Ironwood from Scherer Bros Lumber Company
Gutters
:
Box gutter from Sheridan Sheet Metal
Roof
:
Shingle from Killeen Roofing & Siding
Windows
:
Marvin from Scherer Bros Lumber Company
Interior hardware
:
Custom by Brian Leo
Exterior hardware and bench
:
Custom by Peter Vanni, Archipelago Metalworks
Paint
:
Benjamin Moore, Jerome & Company
Lighting/electrical
:
Halo Professional Series recessed cans from Brite Lite; Arroyo sconces from Muska and pendant lights from Filament
Plumbing fixtures
:
Fantasia Showrooms
Kitchen/bathroom countertops
:
Masterpiece Granite
Kitchen appliances
:
GE
Conservatory flooring
:
Tile X Design
Conservatory fireplace
:
Quadrafire by Fireside Corner; custom tile design by Eric Rattan, Santa Fe Design Studio
Powder room bowl
:
Robert Jones Design
Powder room vanity and mirror
:
Custom by Peter Vanni, Archipelago Metalworks
Bathroom tile and stone
:
Tile X Design, Kate-Lo and Ruble Tile
Stained glass
:
Custom by Gaytee Stained Glass
Photography by Kallan MacLeod
