Naturally attractive

As our urban populations increase, and cities and towns begin to encroach on the countryside, we need to decide how we want to deal with natural features such as mature trees, wooded valleys and lakes.

Architect Charles Stinson believes it is possible to combine a respect for natural elements with our housing needs. This is expressed in his approach to a neighborhood development in a valley near Lotus Lake, Minnesota and within walking distance of the nearest town, Chanhassen.

Stinson first saw the wooded, lakeside valley about 12 years ago and since then has worked with the owner, Ted Delancey, whose family had owned the property since 1939.

"We decided it was time to do something with the land; we liked Charles Stinson's architecture and his ideas of protecting the natural features and the beautiful mature maple trees," says Delancey.

The development, which began with nine acres, has increased in size as other land in the area has become available.

Stinson spent several years exploring the site and working with the owner on the land planning for the development.

"I wanted to get a feel for the site so I could determine where to build each house without cutting down trees or running roads through the valley. We studied the topography all year round to see how the sun affected each site and to determine where to locate driveways."

Stinson has used a density of one house per acre throughout the neighborhood, with each house designed to take the best advantage of sun and views, and to ensure privacy from other homes.

"To achieve the standard we envisioned for the whole neighborhood, we designed and built one house at a time. Each home is a composition of vertical and horizontal planes to capture maximum light and views in every direction. Each house is designed to relate to the site and its features, so the materials, size and layout of every home in the neighborhood are individual," says the architect.

Ruth Johnson, interior designer for CRS Interiors, LLC, the interior design arm of Charles R Stinson Architects, says each interior has its own distinct personality, featuring large, open-plan layouts and light-filled spaces.

"I have aimed to honor the architecture and combine this with each client's vision, needs and lifestyle," she says.

For more information, contact Charles R Stinson Architects, LLC, 18304 Minnetonka Boulevard, Deephaven, MN 55391, phone (952) 473 9503, fax (952) 473 4371. Email: info@crsarch.com, or visit the website: www.crsarch.com.

Story by: Trendsideas