STYLE & COMMUNITY CONTENT COORDINATOR MOLLY MCCHESNEY
EVENTS
OPERATIONS COORDINATOR CASEY SCOZZARI
PROGRAM OPERATIONS MANAGER NIKKI HUBIN
SENIOR DIRECTOR, EVENTS MARY CATHERINE PENNY
EVENTS COORDINATOR GABRIELLE LANENBERG
EVENTS COORDINATOR MORGAN RAY
SALES
SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT, GROWTH & ENGAGEMENT KATE GUNDERSON
SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE DEVIN LEHNHOFF
ENGAGEMENT ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE ALLYSON SAMPLE
ADMINISTRATION
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER JANICE MEYER
SENIOR DIRECTOR, FINANCE TAMMI HALL
DIRECTOR, GROWTH TECHNOLOGY KRISTIN MARVIN
EXECUTIVE COORDINATOR KATE WIGLEY
MEMBER SERVICES MANAGER KIM CARTER
ADVOCACY
VICE PRESIDENT, LEGISLATIVE & POLITICAL AFFAIRS MARK FOSTER
SENIOR DIRECTOR, HOUSING POLICY NICK ERICKSON
POLICY ASSOCIATE GRACE GREENE
HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA FOUNDATION
CHIEF IMPACT OFFICER JESSICA RYAN
FOUNDATION EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR SOFIA HUMPHRIES
PROGRAM COORDINATOR KRISTI JORGENSEN
HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA BOARD OF DIRECTORS
BOARD CHAIR JOHN KRAEMER, John Kraemer & Sons, Inc.
BUILDER VICE PRESIDENT JAMIE THARP, Pulte Homes of Minnesota, LLC
IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT ART PRATT, Pratt Homes
SECRETARY/TREASURER PETER MARTIN, Pella Windows & Doors
PARADE OF HOMES CHAIR BLAKE SWANSON, Swanson Homes
ADVOCACY CHAIR ANDREW LEJEUNE, GlassArt Design
REMODELERS CHAIR ANDY MICHELS, Michels Homes
SMALL VOLUME BUILDERS CHAIR JOE BRAUN, Style & Structure, LLC
LARGE VOLUME BUILDERS CHAIR JOHN RASK, M/I Homes
AMBASSADOR CHAIR KATIE HRONSKI, Cambria
ARTISAN HOME TOUR CHAIR AMY HENDEL, Hendel Homes
HOUSING AFFORDABILITY INSTITUTE PETER COYLE, Larkin Hoffman
HOUSING FIRST MN FOUNDATION JEREMY LARSON, Hampton Construction, LLC
HOUSING FIRST MN NETWORK TONY WIENER, Cardinal Homebuilders, Inc.
CENTER FOR HOUSING CAREERS PAUL GRABOW, Robert Thomas Homes, Inc.
MEMBER AT-LARGE NATHAN CARLSON, Highmark Builders, Inc.
MEMBER AT-LARGE MALORIE DRUGG, Marvin
MEMBER AT-LARGE JIM FUSCHETTO, Lyman Companies
MEMBER AT-LARGE RYAN HANSON, Sustainable 9 Design + Build
MEMBER AT-LARGE MATT HOLMSTROM, Nor-Son Custom Builders
MEMBER AT-LARGE ALEX LELCHUK, Lelch
MEMBER AT-LARGE JENNIDER MCALPIN, McAlpin Marketing
MEMBER AT-LARGE JARRETT PARKS, D.R. Horton, Inc. - Minnesota
MEMBER AT-LARGE RACHEL PAULOSE, Home Electronic Systems, Inc.
MEMBER AT-LARGE REBECCA REMICK, City Homes, LLC
A Community That Cares
In Rochester, home has always carried a strong sense of purpose. A drive, determination, and commitment found in its neighborhoods, in homes that balance tradition with progress, and in a community that values care—care for one another, for health and innovation, for craftsmanship, and for the very place life happens: home.
The Spring Parade of Homes invites you to step inside 27 homes across the Rochester area that reflect exactly that. Each home balances what’s true and authentic to this region: respect for what has come before and confidence in what lies ahead.
This tour also introduces a new era of collaboration in the Rochester homebuilding community. By aligning with the local builders and partners of Rochester Areas Builders who know this region intimately, we’re deepening our connection to the community and reinforcing our shared promise of quality and trust. It’s a partnership rooted in local leadership and a belief in building homes that belong here. Together, we’re creating a tour experience that reflects Rochester’s character while expanding opportunities for homeowners and builders alike.
If you’re new to the Parade of Homes brand, this 75-plus-yearold home tour is about far more
than the beautiful houses you’ll walk through. We want you to leave feeling inspired, excited, and ready to take on the next leg of your homeownership journey, something we feel all Minnesotans of all walks of life deserve. After all, the value of touring isn’t in comparison but recognition: recognizing what feels right, what feels familiar, and what feels possible.
Thank you for joining us this spring. We’re honored to share these homes and celebrate what makes Rochester a place people are proud to call home.
Happy touring!
The Parade of Homes Team
ZUMBRO RIVER
WHY ROCHESTER?
Your guide to building in one of Minnesota’s fastest-growing cities
Less than an hour from the southern border of Minnesota, you’ll find a city that has experienced sustained growth; boasts colorful, evolving neighborhoods; and offers continuously expanding amenities. Although this may sound like a suburb of the Twin Cities, it’s actually Rochester—a thriving community geared toward prospective homeowners in the state.
With a population just over 123,000, Rochester offers an “exceptional quality of life built around access, amenities, and community,” explains Irene Woodward, community development director at the City of Rochester. This includes noteworthy features like 85 miles of interconnected trails, 3,500 acres of parkland, and arts and entertainment venues like the Mayo Civic Center.
The area also appeals to myriad groups. With its small-town feel where you know your neighbors and children’s teachers, Rochester is ideal for families, says Patrick Sexton, executive director of Rochester Area Builders, who adds that young professionals can count
on the community growing, especially if you’re in the health care industry. And he notes that more and more people are retiring in the area to ensure they always have access to Mayo Clinic services.
A Booming Region
Some things that punctuate Rochester’s growth and desirability include a diverse array of housing options, a flourishing economy, and a palpable sense of community. “Rochester’s sustained growth is fueled by its strong economic foundation and strategic investments,” Woodward says, describing the area as “a global hub for health and innovation.”
The major catalyst driving Rochester’s economy forward is the world-famous Mayo Clinic, which creates jobs, stimulates innovation, and provides longterm stability. Referring to Mayo Clinic as an “anchor,” Woodward says it’s further complemented by a diverse employment base in health care, education, manufacturing, agriculture, and professional services, creating a resilient economy.
BY SHELBY DEERING
A Health Care Leader’s Impact
At the heart of the city is Mayo Clinic, which Sexton refers to as “the greatest health care provider on the planet.” Thanks to the clinic’s prominent position in the community, Rochester is continually developed through job opportunities that are available to residents. In fact, Sexton says roughly 50,000 locals work at the facility.
“Mayo Clinic is the cornerstone of Rochester’s identity and growth,” Woodward says. “As a global health care leader, it attracts patients, professionals, and researchers from around the world, making it the largest employer in the state of Minnesota and primary economic driver. This presence fuels population growth and sustained housing demand, from downtown apartments to family neighborhoods, while shaping Rochester into a compact, pedestrian-friendly city designed for patients, staff, and visitors.”
Mayo Clinic also acts as an impactful community partner, giving millions of dollars back to the community. “[Mayo Clinic] is the core member of the Coalition for Rochester Area Housing,
BIGELOW HOMES
donating $13 million in the last decade to support affordable housing,” Sexton says.
Housing for All
Sexton emphatically says that whatever housing you can imagine either already exists, or will soon exist, in Rochester. “I believe we are on the cusp of a housing boom in Rochester,” he shares. “For more than a decade, we have underperformed on single family housing, building only 200 to 300
homes every year when we needed 1,000. In 2025, all three of the nation’s—and Minnesota’s—largest builders, began operations in Rochester. Our hope is within one to three years, we will be building 1,000 units of all types of housing each year. From apartments to multimillion dollar mansions, everything is being built here.”
Woodward explains that prospective homebuyers have a range of appealing options. For example, while walkable, established
neighborhoods near downtown offer character and convenience, urban apartments and condos cater to professionals and individuals seeking low-maintenance living. “Buyers looking for active lifestyles often choose proximity to trails and green space, while edge-of-city and semi-rural settings offer larger lots and natural surroundings,” she notes. “Aging in place-friendly locations near health care and transit are increasingly in demand.”
NOTABLE NEIGHBORHOODS
As the city’s community development director, Woodward knows the ins and outs of Rochester’s neighborhoods well. Here, she shares each district’s characteristics and feel.
CASCADE: Walkable and close to downtown, punctuated by a mix of housing types and easy access to trails and parks
KUTZKY PARK: Established and community-oriented, and close to Mayo Clinic and downtown amenities
HISTORIC SOUTHWEST: Known for character-rich homes, mature trees, and convenient access to myriad city attractions
FOLWELL: A well-established neighborhood southwest of downtown with a mix of housing, parks, and convenient access to schools and amenities like Mayo Clinic
LOWERTOWN: A resurgent area just north of downtown, with growing local businesses, restaurants, and new multifamily housing along the Broadway Avenue corridor
PINE ISLAND
CORRIDOR: A growing area with mixed residential development, commercial access, and connections to regional travel routes
OUTDOOR RECREATION IN ROCHESTER
Where Comfort Meet s Oppor tunity
Rochester blends the energy and amenities of a larger city with the ease and familiarity of a smaller community. While many know it as home of the world-renowned Mayo Clinic, the city offers far more beyond its global reputation. With a vibrant arts and culture scene, walkable downtown, outdoor recreation, and full calendar of events throughout the year, Rochester is emerging as a sought-after destination for young professionals, families, and retirees looking for their place to call home.
AGE: 36.4 years
$342,800 - $6,500,000
Creativity & Culture
Life Outside
Rochester’s extensive parks and trails system makes it easy to enjoy the outdoors without ever leaving the city. The Douglas State Trail, stretching more than 12 miles along a former railroad corridor, is a favorite for walking, running, and biking. Closer to downtown, Silver Lake Park and Cascade Lake Park offer scenic paths, fishing, and peaceful green space. Quarry Hill Nature Center is another must-stop, with wooded trails, fossil hunting, and hands-on educational programs. So, whether taking a quick morning stroll or packing up the car for a full family excursion, the great outdoors are always within reach.
Arts and culture play a major role in Rochester’s identity. The Mayo Civic Center is a premier event destination, hosting concerts, performances, sports, and more throughout the year. Along the Zumbro River, the Rochester Art Center highlights rotating exhibitions from regional and national artists in a striking contemporary space. Nearby, the Charles E. Gagnon Museum & Sculpture Garden offers a more intimate experience focused on the artist’s vast collection of bronze sculptures. Beyond formal venues, public art, live music, and cultural programming are seamlessly woven into downtown spaces, ensuring Rochester’s creative presence is felt throughout the city.
Good Taste
The dining scene in Rochester continues to grow alongside the city itself, offering far more than visitors might expect. Downtown Rochester sets the tone with locally owned restaurants, cafes, and coffee shops that serve both residents and the Mayo Clinic community. Beyond downtown, local favorites like Purple Goat and Fat Willy’s make it easy to enjoy a great meal close to home. For a more elevated night out, Lord Essex Tavern and Grill and Bleu Duck Kitchen bring thoughtful menus and refined atmospheres to the table—because in Rochester, quality and comfort go hand in hand.
Mark Your Calendar
Rochester’s calendar is filled with events that give the city its year-round buzz. A summer staple of the area, Thursdays Downtown brings the streets alive with a block party-style event featuring food vendors, local art, live music, and family-friendly activities. When winter arrives, the city leans into the season with Social-ICE, transforming downtown into a winter wonderland complete with unique themed bars, ice sculptures, and live entertainment. No matter the season, Rochester residents find reasons to gather, celebrate, and enjoy their city together.
DOWNTOWN ROCHESTER
CASUAL DINING IN ROCHESTER
LASTING IMPACT. BROADER REACH.
The Housing First Minnesota Foundation enters 2026 with strong momentum following an impactful 2025 marked by deeper partnerships, expanded reach, and meaningful housing solutions for mothers, children, and veterans across the state. What began as individual projects has grown into a strategic portfolio of multiyear initiatives designed to address Minnesota’s most urgent housing needs.
The progress made in 2025 strengthened industry relationships and expanded the Foundation’s capacity to support nonprofit partners. As a result, the Foundation is well positioned to extend its reach and transform even more lives through safe, dignified housing in 2026 and beyond.
Building Long-Term Impact Statewide
In 2026, the Foundation will continue investing in multiyear, statewide projects that go beyond emergency shelter to support long-term stability and opportunity for people in need. Two major projects are already underway, reflecting both the scale of
housing need and the power of industry collaboration.
Avivo Village – St. Cloud
Avivo Village – St. Cloud is a new 48-bed shelter featuring individual living pods, shared amenities, and thoughtfully designed communal spaces. Serving approximately 120 individuals annually, the project— developed with BCI Construction and dedicated partners—expands regional shelter capacity while creating pathways to long-term housing stability.
Hope House
In partnership with John Kraemer & Sons, Inc. and the Hope House/Open Hands Foundation, construction has begun on a new two-story youth crisis shelter in the southwest Twin Cities metro. Designed with trauma-informed principles at the forefront, Hope House will provide teens experiencing homelessness with a safe, supportive environment focused on healing and growth.
Looking Ahead
Future multiyear projects may focus on serving single mothers and their children, survivors of
trafficking and domestic violence, families experiencing homelessness, and female veterans— continuing the Foundation’s commitment to compassionate, sustainable housing.
The Housing First Minnesota Foundation hopes entering the Rochester market through the Parade of Homes will spark new partnerships with local service providers, allowing the Foundation to bring its expertise in safe housing solutions to the Rochester community and broader Olmsted County.
Why Your Dream Home Visit Matters
Every Parade of Homes Dream Home ticket helps fund the work of the Housing First Minnesota Foundation. While you explore beautiful design and craftsmanship, you’re also helping provide safe, stable housing for Minnesotans in need. Dream Homes don’t just showcase what’s possible in homebuilding—they help make housing possible.
PREMIER PARTNER
AVIVO VILLAGE – ST. CLOUD HOPE HOUSE GROUNDBREAKING
Entry Type: Development
Homes to fit all lifestyles await you at Somerby Golf Community. Thoughtfully designed lot layouts with some spectacular views. Visit our Discovery Center to see the newest expansion, multiple lots to choose from, and world-class amenities! From townhomes and single-family homes to villas and estate homes. Come build your life at Somerby!
Lots Range from $112,900 to $360,000
Discovery Center
516 SOMERBY PARKWAY NE BYRON, MN
Subdivision: Somerby Golf Community
Amenities
Nearby parks
Pickleball
Fitness center and pool
18-hole championship golf
Putting facility
Golf simulator
Two onsite dining options
Golden Tee Development
507•254•1801 • somerby.com • License #NA Member of RAB since 2001
Each Parade of Homes, the Housing First Minnesota Foundation selects a handful of standout residences that showcase exceptional craftsmanship, thoughtful design, and inspired details at every turn. This year in Rochester, you’re invited to tour one remarkable Dream Home (No. 507). More than just a beautiful space, the Rochester Dream Home supports the Housing First Minnesota Foundation’s mission to help build safe, stable housing for Minnesotans in need. Open one weekend only, this Dream Home offers the perfect opportunity to see exceptional craftsmanship up close while making a meaningful impact.
Admission to the Rochester Dream Home is $7, payable at the door, with all proceeds benefitting the Housing First Minnesota Foundation. Please note: Dream Home admission is cashless—credit card payment only.
Beautifully Bold
Zen Custom Homes
5244 TRIDENT LANE SW, ROCHESTER
Customized for the way its owners truly live, this striking residence pairs bold, modern architecture with a warm interior palette. Limewashed walls, creamy tones, and rich wood floors and beams bring a certain depth and softness to every space, creating a home that feels both elevated and inviting.
Thoughtfully curated lighting adds drama and dimension throughout, highlighting standout spaces designed for everyday luxury and personal passions—from a dedicated home salon and private theater to a gym built for wellness at home. Four distinctive fireplaces anchor the interiors with unique scale and finishes, giving each gathering space its own signature moment.
Designed with entertaining in mind, the home extends effortlessly outdoors, where an expansive deck and rear patio set the stage for summer parties, family celebrations, and relaxed evenings under the open sky. It’s a dream home that balances statement-making design with livable comfort—one you won’t want to miss.
Admission to the Rochester Dream Home is $7, payable at the door, with all proceeds benefitting the Housing First Minnesota Foundation. Please note: Dream Home admission is cashless—credit card payment only.
3,126
5,613
3,003
$1,320,000
3,810
ADDITION, HISTORIC RENOVATION, WHOLE HOUSE
You’re invited to Minnesota’s first Phiuscertified retrofit home. This home blends the charm of a 150-year-old farmhouse with the innovation of advanced building techniques. Every detail of this retrofit/ addition honors the original character while exceeding net-zero performance goals. If you’re seeking sustainability, craftsmanship, and timeless design, this home is worth the country drive.
This updated main floor showcases classic elegance with an open, airy kitchen, new custom cabinetry, and a newly added pantry. Charming wallpaper in the laundry and powder room adds personality, while refinished hardwood floors bring warmth and cohesion throughout. Thoughtful updates throughout the space create a timeless, inviting feel for everyday living.
For homes that deserve nothing less than extraordinary, choose Pella® products. Our windows and doors are exquisitely detailed and made-to-order just for you.
Experience Pella products on the Rochester Spring Parade of HomesSM:
For homes that deserve nothing less than extraordinary, choose Pella® products. Our windows and doors are exquisitely detailed and made-to-order just for you.
Legacy Homes of Rochester, LLC | Home #508
Mayowood Homes, LLC | Home #505
Rymark Construction, LLC | Home #509
Thimijan Custom Homes, LLC | Home #506
Experience Pella products on the Rochester Spring Parade of HomesSM:
Zen Custom Homes | Home #507
Legacy Homes of Rochester, LLC | Home #508
Mayowood Homes, LLC | Home #505
Rymark Construction, LLC | Home #509
Thimijan Custom Homes, LLC | Home #506
Zen Custom Homes | Home #507
GORDON JAMES | CHARLIE & CO. DESIGN | SPACECRAFTING
