Lake&Home Magazine Jan/Feb '21

Subscribe at w w w.lakeandhomemagazine.com YEAR 22 | ISSUE 1 | JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2021

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Lake & Home Magazine JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2021

JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2021 www.lakeandhomemagazine.com

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YEAR 22 • ISSUE 1 • JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2021 subscribe online at: www.lakeandhomemagazine.com

CONTENTS

10 OFFICE

Meet Our Team

14 OFFICE

42

From the Office

by Bekki Newbrough

SEASONAL

Cabin Essentials for Cold Winter Nights

by Alicia Underlee Nelson

62

INTERIOR DESIGN

The Home Office

by Bekki Newbrough

16

50

INTERIOR DESIGN

9 Ways to Decorate with Metal

DO IT YOURSELF

3 Ways to Garden Indoors

by Alicia Underlee Nelson

by Alicia Underlee Nelson

68

DESIGNER PORTFOLIO

Fergus Home & Hardware

by Andrea Canning

30 DOORS

54

ON THE LAKE

The Adirondack Chair

More Than Just a Door

Choices Abound for Combining Function and Style

by Patrice Peterson

by Bekki Newbrough

72

INTERIOR DESIGN

Design Trends for 2021

by Danae Branson

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Lake & Home Magazine JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2021

130 SHOPPING

Service Directory

80

FEATURE HOME

Nordic Inspired Hideaway

132

by Angela Garvin

104

FEATURE HOME

SHOPPING

Lake Gifts

Unique in Minnesota - Gifts for the Lake Lover

136

A Design to Stand the Test of Time

by Patrice Peterson

FEATURED LAKE

Lake Ida

90

FEATURE HOME

Hunting Haven

Hunting Shack Transformed into Year-Round Outdoor Adventure Destination

by Craig Gustafson

120

FEATURE HOME

The Cottage on Cedar Lake

Cover photo by Kip Johnson Story on page 104

Douglas County

by Alicia Underlee Nelson

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Year 22, Issue 1 • JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2021 PUBLISHER - Kip Johnson EDITORS - Brent and Jennifer Rogness LAKE & HOME MAGAZINE – ADVERTISING SALES Jerry Shea • 218.205.7454 • jerry@lakeandhomemagazine.com Renee Redenius • 701.212.7227 • renee@lakeandhomemagazine.com Becky Haarstad • 262.994.8744 • rebecca@lakeandhomemagazine.com Terri Jo Peery • 320.491.5618• terrijo@lakeandhomemagazine.com

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LAKE & HOME MAGAZINE Published bimonthly by Compass Media | 126 S Vine St | Fergus Falls, MN 56537 www.lakeandhomemagazine.com artwork@lakeandhomemagazine.com Unless previously agreed, all rights remain the sole property of Lake & Home Magazine. ©2021 Compass Media.

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Printed by Hess Print Solutions, USA

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FROM THE OFFICE

From t he Office

Welcome, everyone, to a new year! As a child, I was taught about a time of year with chances for resolutions, remembrances, and reflecting on lessons learned. It was a way for my family to take in the past year, be grateful for all we received, and to look forward to the next year. We would watch the ball drop in New York, sing “Auld Lang Syne” with a humorous lack of melody, and talk about how much time has passed since “way back when.” Then, just like we do at the Thanksgiving dinner table, we’d take turns talking about what the year had meant to us, and name one of our New Year’s resolutions.

I’m far away from that big dinner table this year, but I think I’ll continue the tradition.

This year has introduced a number of changes for me. I joined the Lake & Home team while we were working on the last issue for 2020.

The excitement of building such a magazine was impressed upon me right away. I’ve had the chance to look through the library, and I see how far it has come over the years.

Lake & Home works locally with businesses and stories that come from the Minnesota

lakes area. We also have subscribers across the states who join in the fun. All of this gave me that joy in what I do, but what thrilled me the most were the mentions of how others received the magazine. When a new issue comes out, people gather to talk about it in stores or near shop fronts, where a network has built itself among small businesses. This is a coffee table magazine, and is seen there in many homes.

I love the story of the woman who knows exactly when it comes to the shelves, so she can be sure to get her copy. She takes clippings, and keeps them for ideas. Being a resolute planner myself, I relate well to her methods. Another discussion talks about a grocery store where the racks keep emptying before we can send more. Every time I hear events like this, it makes me smile at the sense of community that goes along with the magazine. I’m glad I get the opportunity to be a part of a team who is truly invested in what they do, and cares about the results.

If I were to choose one goal for 2021, it would have to be the persistent act of reconnecting. Over the years, I have drifted away from those I used to see every day. I would like to reach out to see if I can mend

that bridge, reinforce it, and let everyone know that I still think of them. Communication is difficult for the introvert in me, even in this magical digital world where we are living.

To me, a resolution is about overcoming an obstacle. It’s a hurdle that will also give me a worthy reward, so I choose this challenge to overcome in the next year. I grew up in a thick-as-thieves community style household, and as an adult my home has been small, quiet. I miss that lifestyle at times. I look at the family-oriented homes in this issue, and feel a yearning for reunions.

Beautiful, bright, deep-toned, detailed, and classic are a few words that come to mind when seeing the homes we are presenting.

Have a look over the stories of the homes here, and take with you any pieces that might be perfect for your own story. We also have the very appropriate indoor topics for our mid-winter minds. These include; indoor plants to help us breathe easier, different styles of doors for us to keep the heat in, the cabin must-haves, and a unique design aspect when metal is magnifique.

Whatever your New Year’s resolution, I hope you get the chance to start the year with a sense of pomp that carries through to early spring. Let this year steal your heart, and remember your last year for everything it gave you, and everything it did to make you stronger. ~L&H

Bekki Newbrough Office Administrator

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INTERIOR DESIGN

Photos on this page courtesy of The Blue Barn

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etal is having a moment. It shows up in a variety of interior design styles, including popular rustic, industrial, farmhouse looks as well as Art Deco and Hollywood Regency décor.

But now, instead of strictly sticking to a style, homeowners are combining elements they love into a look that’s utterly their own. As these photos are showcased on the pages of design magazines, featured on builder and designer’s websites and pop up on websites like Pinterest and Houzz, they provide inspiration to others who are just starting their own building and remodeling projects.

“People can really go and see a lot of different things, and then piecemeal their own looks together, their own vision,” explains Ben

remodeling or at-home design project will help your home exude el-

Baratto, president of Baratto Brothers Construction in Crosslake.

egance. Take what you like, discard what you don’t and blend these metal trends to give your home its own unique look.

Whether you’re drawn in by a little metal or a lot, whether you prefer a pared-down aesthetic or a mix-and-match approach, you have plenty of options. These nine ways to use metal in your next building,

Try metal lighting fixtures

One of the simplest ways to add metal to a space is by adding metal light fixtures. There are so many to choose from, so look for options that suit both the space and your style.

Warehouse-style lamps in steel, oil-rubbed bronze or copper suit industrial, rustic and farmhouse style interiors. They’re available as sconces, pendants and chandelier-style fixtures. Some enclose the lightbulbs in a metal cage, while others leave the bulbs exposed for a raw, functional look.

Photos Top & Bottom Courtesy of

The Blue Barn

“People can really go and see a lot of different things, and then piecemeal their own looks together, their own vision.”

Ben Baratto // Baratto Brothers Construction

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Update a traditional staircase

A traditional staircase is composed of several parts. The treads are the flat portions where you place your feet. The risers are the vertical elements that join them together and move the staircase up and down. You move along the staircase with the aid of a handrail, which is anchored by posts and vertical balusters or spindles.

It’s possible to combine wood and metal in a variety of configurations, which results in a huge range of styles and effects. Metal posts and stair railings tend to be sleek and streamlined, often boasting a smooth and pleasingly boxy shape that suits contemporary, industrial and rustic styles equally well.

Photos Courtesy of

Lands End

See more photos of this home in our nov/dec 2019 issue

For something more traditional and substantial, opt for a metal drum light in a beautiful shade of bronze, antique brass or oxidized nickel.

The patina and texture will add warmth to the space and add a pleasing sense of weight to the room.

Fans of contemporary and minimalistic design should opt for graceful lines and simple geometric shapes in shiny metals like chrome and steel. They’ll add a feeling of crispness to the space without overpowering the other design elements in the room. In these styles, less is more, and negative space is key.

See more photos of this home in our nov/dec 2019 issue 20 Lake & Home Magazine JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2021

Most interior metals used for stairs are either iron or stainless steel. But the color and shape of the metal pack a greater visual punch than the type of metal used.

That’s especially true for spindles or balusters. Wrought iron balusters might appear classic, Gothic or even whimsical.

Stainless steel can feel crisp, industrial, minimalistic or contemporary. In general, the darker the color, the more grounded and traditional the look will seem. Shiny, light colored metals project a modern – or even futuristic – vibe.

Cable railing staircases

Cable railing staircases evoke this modern, futuristic feeling as well. This stair system was used in commercial spaces before being adapted for residential use, so it retains a feeling of industrial modernity. It replaces spindles and balusters with cables, replacing the vertical balusters with a tension system.

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Because the cables are thin, you can basically look right through the staircase. From a landing, there’s very little to block the view. This makes a cable railing system an increasingly popular choice in Minnesota lakes country, where the feeling of spaciousness matters and views of the lake are almost always a major design goal.

“It definitely is becoming more common,” says Baratto. “You’re seeing more and more of it, instead of your normal Craftsman-style railing.”

Homeowners who like a bit more decoration can select eye-catching metal turnbuckles, the horizontal elements that connect the wires and adjust the staircase’s tension. Bold geometric shapes recall Art Deco designs, while streamlined shapes and modern finishes make a room feel fresh and contemporary.

Experiment with metal shelving

Displaying objects on shelves made of streamlined metal is a hall-

The farmhouse style is on the opposite end of the design spectrum.

mark of industrial, contemporary and minimalistic interiors. The

It combines rustic wood (often reclaimed barnwood) and functional

shelves are functional, clean-lined and sleek. They’re often rendered

metal accents on objects like barn doors with cherished household

in the same shade, so the look is visually consistent.

objects, antiques, signage and homey textiles for a look that appears collected instead of designed.

“Mixed metals are another key element in this design – nothing matchy-matchy,” Liz Carlson, owner and designer of Center of Design Inc. in Audubon. “Specifically, gunmetal, galvanized steel or matte black finishes are used.”

“Mixed metals are another key element in this design – nothing matchy-matchy, Specifically, gunmetal, galvanized steel or matte black finishes are used.”

Photos Top & Bottom Courtesy of

The Blue Barn

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Liz Carlson // Center of design inc

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That gives homeowners lots of freedom when it comes to shelving and storage options. A library or office looks sharp with gunmetal or matte black shelving, while sentimental or functional items on display in a kitchen or hallway benefit from a simple presentation on an unadorned shelf.

And since this style depends heavily on re-using existing products, you can make a shelf out of almost anything. Repurpose intriguing metal toolbox drawers, assorted lids or even old suitcases or chests.

Shiny showers & burnished bathrooms

Corrugated metal is a popular material in farmhouse, rustic and industrial interiors. The sturdy, low-maintenance metal is grooved and durable. Zinc is applied to corrugated steel or iron to protect the metal and keep it from rusting, so it’s a safe and durable choice for interiors.

That includes bathrooms, where it often appears as an accent (as part of a mirror or wall art) or as part of a barnwood vanity. But you can even use it in the shower itself as well.

The effect can range from weathered to sleek to purely functional. If

Photo Courtesy of

you select a metal with a thin groove, the striations almost disappear

The Blue Barn

from a distance, making a functional shower look surprisingly sophisticated. Hanging it so the ridges are horizontal instead of vertical can also alter the effect.

Try tin

Speaking of outdoor spaces, metal has long been a favorite mateA corrugated metal shower makes sense outdoors too – and espe-

rial for outdoor structures. For those of a certain age, the soothing

cially at the lake. It’s the perfect spot to rinse off after a swim and

sound of rain on a tin roof is an essential part of summer at the

wash sand and grass from coolers and feet before you head inside.

cabin or at grandma’s house. Adding a tin roof to a sunporch or a bunkhouse is an aesthetic choice that’s both functional and highly nostalgic.

Smaller spaces like porches, entryways and pantries are logical places to try another look that’s weathered the passage of time – pressed tin ceilings. They blend ornate designs and a classic look. They add texture and interest to a room and work well with a variety of aesthetics, including traditional, cottage, rustic and farmhouse styles.

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Choose metal home accents

Photo Courtesy of

Alpine Cabinetry

Like the look of metal, but only in small doses? Start very small, choosing lamps, clocks and vases in subdued shades of black, bronze and copper for a traditional look. To complement an industrial or contemporary style, try chrome or stainless steel. Fans of rustic industrial interiors or the farmhouse look can opt for accents made of corrugated metal for a curated, mix-and-match look.

“Add other pops of galvanized steel in the form of a galvanized windmill clock or beverage cart,” suggests Carlson. “Feel free to mix metals, but keep them in a brushed finish, nothing shiny.”

Corrugated metal kitchen accents

This mix of opposites prompted Mary and Jeff Stenerson to make their own headboard of reclaimed barnwood and corrugated steel.

Photo Courtesy of

The Blue Barn

And when it was time to remodel their Detroit Lakes home, they decided to take this combination to the next level.

Metal looks great behind shiny objects like televisions or glassware,

The couple made their own cabinets and finished them with the cor-

so add a larger sheet of metal as an accent in a basement bar or

rugated steel accents. The look, which Mary calls “industrial rustic,” is

rec room. Or use it to reflect the sparks in a fireplace.

tied together with cement counters and slate floors.

Metal plays well with natural materials like wood and stone. These

“I never thought we would ever build our own cabinets,” she laughs.

mediums soften its harsh edges, creating a sense of harmony.

“But we’re very handy people and it really wasn’t as complicated as somebody might think it is if you have the right tools. We had to get

Contrasting metal with something soft or textured plays up the at-

a special corrugated metal cutter to cut it and to make the pieces

tributes of both objects. Opposites do indeed attract. That’s why a

fit, but otherwise it’s a very easy product to work with.”

geometric metal side table looks so striking next to an overstuffed armchair and why a corrugated metal headboard pairs so well with

It’s easy to add metal accents to a kitchen without replacing the en-

cozy comforters.

tire cabinet structure. Put corrugated or textured metal behind items

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on an open shelf for a fresh look with minimal effort. Or replace cabinet fronts with chicken wire panels like those installed by Alpine Cabinetry in St. Cloud. It’s a casual, laid-back look that manages to be both classic and utterly unexpected.

There are other ways to integrate metal without a major overhaul. The rich patina of a metal range hood adds warmth and interest to a modern kitchen and corrugated metal makes an unexpected and durable backsplash. Enjoy the contrast of wood and metal by pairing a wood kitchen island with modern metal stools or watch metal in warm coppery tones or silvery corrugated metal gleam be-

Photo Courtesy of

Counselor realty, Stacy scott

hind wooden stools.

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Make your own metal light fixtures

Photos Top & Bottom Courtesy of

The Blue Barn

The tool the Stenersons bought to cut corrugated metal is called an air nibbler. Corrugated metal is extremely sharp, so it makes cutting much easier – and safer, too.

It can also come in handy for other DIY projects, like cutting metal for ceiling fans or a light fixture. You can also purchase upcycled versions from shops that specialize in repurposed home décor like The Blue Barn in Ottertail or commission one from an expert maker.

If you want to do it yourself, but want to keep cutting to a minimum, try repurposing existing metal objects that already have the shape you want. Carlson says a few old buckets are all you need to make your own light.

“Get creative by taking some galvanized buckets,” she begins. “Cut holes in the top, run Edison bulbs through at varying heights and bam – you have a unique farmhouse light fixture!”

Whether you take your DIY project to the next level or call in the pros for your next building or remodeling project, there are lots of ways to integrate metal accents into your home. By selecting the ones that suit your space and your style, you can craft a fresh look for your home. ~L&H

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D DOORS

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After all, doors have a very practical function.

Basically, they are simply a hinged, sliding or revolving solid barrier at the entrance to a room or building – providing security or controlling access to that room or building. They can be simple or ornate, and are commonly made of materials that are suited to the door’s role and location.

Maybe it’s time to take a closer look at doors as a way to possibly provide a home with more than just the function they provide.

Whether it’s an interior bedroom door or an ornate front entry door, there is always a way to add interest, along with enlivening and enhancing the style and beauty of any home.

As overall design trends have fluctuated throughout the years, so have the styles, textures and colors of doors, and there have been some noticeable changes.

“I think that door styles have definitely changed, and we’ve seen a shift from a more decorative, detailed interior to a much more simplified, clean-lined look,” says Holly Bayer, of Bayer Built, a millwork distributor in Belgrade, Minn. “We live in the 21st century with a lot of stress, a lot of details and extraneous influences, and I think many people want to create a home that is more quiet and calm.”

An interior designer since 2002, and professional member of ASID (American Society of Interior Designers), her role in sales and marketing at Bayer Built includes working with architects, contractors, subcontractors, manufacturers and homeowners, and advising on trends in the industry.

“Less can be more, and many areas of the country are embracing a pretty modern contemporary style,” she continues. “In the Midwest, especially lake homes, I believe we will always look to natural materials for inspiration, like wood and stone, and clear sightlines to the outdoors.”

PHOTO PROVIDED BY: BAYER BUILT

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“

“In the Midwest, especially lake homes, I believe we will always look to natural materials for inspiration, like wood and stone, and clear sightlines to the outdoors.”

“

W

hen building a new home, adding an addition, or renovating your entire living space, doors are most likely NOT the first thing that come to mind as a design focus.

HOLLY BAYER - BAYER BUILT

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“

“When people use the true original look of a barn door, it can give a home a real rustic, farmhouse look, but now we see many homeowners taking the same style interior door that they’re using in the rest of the house, but hanging it up on a barn door rail.”

“

JASON BREITZMAN - HILLTOP LUMBER

Interior Doors

Dallas Meyer has also seen definite trends and style changes in doors since he began working at Crane Johnson 26 years ago.

“Way back then, we mostly saw flush hollow-core doors in oak and mahogany,” says Meyer, who manages Crane Johnson’s Pelican Rapids store. “From there, it moved into solid core, six-panel doors, also in oak. Then it switched to more of a flat panel style, mostly maple, oak and cherry.”

In more recent times, he often sees a trend back to Craftsman-style doors that are painted white, and set off with a square base and square casing.

One interesting development in door styles that Meyer has seen when working with a wood door such as poplar, is painting the door trim white, but then staining the door itself a deep, dark brown.

“We always used to think of the door and trim as one piece,” he says, “but now the door jambs and doors can be mixed, with one painted and the other stained.”

Jason Breitzman, sales manager at Hilltop Lumber in Alexandria, agrees that there is no longer a hard and fast rule about the door and frame being painted or stained the same color.

PHOTO PROVIDED BY: BAYER BUILT

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“I kind of like that look,” he says. “We’re seeing a little more of that than we used to. Not all doors need to be stained or painted the same color throughout the house, either. It’s a different kind of trend that’s really about doing whatever works best for you and your style choices.”

As far as the size of interior doors, there are still three standard widths, but the height of the door now has a wider range, particularly when the design calls for emphasis in a room with high (or low) ceilings.

Another trend that began making appearances in more homes and cabins about five years ago, is the sliding barn door.

“When people use the true original look of a barn door, it can give a home a real rustic, farmhouse look,” says Breitzman, “but now we see many homeowners taking the same style interior door that they’re using in the rest of the house, but hanging it up on a barn door rail.”

Whether a barn door is selected to save space in a cramped area, or to make a style statement, it can alter the look of any room. Since the barn doors don’t hang within the opening of a door frame, they’re not always great for privacy or noise reduction, but they remain a popular choice, especially in the lakes area.

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PHOTO PROVIDED BY: BAYER BUILT

“

“Satin nickel or oil-rubbed bronze remain popular for hardware colors, but we’re also seeing a lot more people using black hardware, particularly since black is becoming a more popular color in window trims.”

“

DALLAS MEYER - CRANE JOHNSON

“They’ve been around so long that they’re now considered more of a continuation rather than a trend,” Bayer explains.

“Barn doors can be very effective in the right room in the right situation – adding interest in the foyer, in a large pantry, or even hung in pairs – especially if done in a different color and style to provide character or a focal point.”

Hardware is another way to change up the look of a barn door. It can change the style and look of each room, whether it’s a barn door or any other interior doors in a home.

“Satin nickel or oil-rubbed bronze remain popular for hardware colors, but we’re also seeing a lot more people using black hardware, particularly since black is becoming a more popular color in window trims,” says Meyer. “The shape and style of the hardware seems to be leaning toward more levers than knobs, and many people will use a square-backed plate on the lever to dress it up.”

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“

“If you’re building a custom home with a grand entrance, you wouldn’t want a standard size door. It all has to fit the scale – bigger home, bigger entry, bigger door.”

“

BRENT MANLEY - GREAT RIVER DOOR

Exterior Doors

The front door of a home is more often used as an accent piece – anything to draw attention to the entryway. Sizing of an exterior door is not quite as standard as interior doors, because it is often related to the size and scale of the home.

“For doors with carved designs, we use soft woods like white pine, cedar and fir,” he says, “as well as knotty alder (a hardwood) for customers who want a more durable door. Although we’re in a niche market, our carved doors are the majority of what we produce, along with a few more traditional style doors when requested.”

“If you’re building a custom home with a grand entrance, you wouldn’t want a standard size door,” says Brent Manley, owner of Great River Door Company in Brainerd. “It all has to fit the scale – bigger home, bigger entry, bigger door.”

The finish on any wood door is critical. Great River Door uses a penetrating oil finish that offers protection from the elements, but can also be refinished relatively easily compared to high-build finishes like spar varnish.

Although the most common materials used for exterior doors are fiberglass and steel, especially in a harsh climate, wood still remains popular. Great River Doors is actually known for its one-of-a-kind, rustic wooden doors.

Adding color to an entry door is another way to make a bold statement. Painting a massive fiberglass door in a forest green or a vivid red are currently common colors, along with dark blues and grays.

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PHOTOS PROVIDED BY: GREAT RIVER DOOR

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“

“Textured glass provides all different levels of opacity.

People still want the beauty of glass and the light it allows to come through the door, but they often want to retain their privacy.”

HOLLY BAYER - BAYER BUILT

The choice to include glass in an entry door is another personal decision. Bayer says she’s been seeing a little less interest in decorative glass, with a shift toward textured glass.

“Textured glass provides all different levels of opacity,” she adds. “People still want the beauty of glass and the light it allows to come through the door, but they often want to retain their privacy.”

The style, texture and color of the doors you choose can help define and beautify a room or an entire house. One good example of very modern options that can work in any home is the wider, horizontally placed SDL

“

In the past, hardware for the exterior door often set the tone for the hardware on the interior of the home, but that is no longer the case. Depending on the material, color or texture of the entry door, it’s a personal choice to find the hardware that completes the intended look for that door – or any other area of a home.

(Simulated Divided Lite) bars, with three or four wide bands of glass on the door.

In the end, it all comes down to personal choices and styles and Bayer stresses that the common thread at this time is the clean and simplified lines. “You can still have a showcase home that’s incredible…. without all the extraneous details.” ~L&H

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S SEASONAL

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Invest in a quality set of fireplace tools to make stoking the fire safe and easy. You’ll need tongs to place your kindling, a poker to shift the logs as they burn, a brush and shovel for easy clean up, and a heat-resistant stand to hold the tools as they cool. A sturdy log rack will help dry out damp wood and make a design statement in the entryway or great room.

Cozy Blankets

Whether you’re cuddling up in front of the fire, settling in with a drink or curling up with a good book, a warm blanket is a winter go-to. Those lightweight summer throws just won’t cut it. Switch them out for something warm enough to handle a Midwestern winter.

A knit throw in a creamy color or a neutral stripe looks fresh and works well with any interior. Those who run a bit cold-blooded or anyone with circulation issues should spring for flannel, fleece or wool blankets to stay comfortable during quiet indoor pursuits.

Keep Your Feet Warm photo:

Heim-Made in Kelliher, MN

We’re not only staying at home more in 2020, we’re also using our homes in different ways. International travel is on hold, family gatherings are downsized or halted and the health protocols around ordinary pleasures like dining out are changing every day. Our homes have become our sanctuaries more than ever before.

Speaking of circulation issues, cold feet can strike anyone, anywhere – but they’re especially common in historic homes and cabins. To fight the draft, choose footwear that’s up to the task.

Compression socks increase circulation and the sensation of warmth in the legs and feet. A blend of nylon and mohair or cashmere feel luxuriously soft, while wool, fleece or shearling take heat retention to the next level. Layer socks with shearling-lined moccasins for an extra layer of warmth. The sole provides additional protection against chilly surfaces.

And the cabin isn’t just a summer getaway any longer. For many, it’s also doubling as a much-needed winter retreat from everyday life.

This is the season for rest and renewal, for little indulgences and getting outdoors to enjoy the fresh, crisp air. A few simple purchases, activities and experiences can make the cabin into a retreat to remember. When we shop at local small businesses for our supplies, we can help support our neighbors, so our communities emerge even stronger in the spring.

photo:

Creative Touch in Alexandria, MN

Warm Up

Whether you’re escaping to the cabin or relaxing at your primary residence, cool winter temperatures require extra supplies to keep things comfortable. Here’s what to buy or pack to make sure you’re cozy all season long.

Fireplace Accessories

Humans have gathered around the fire for thousands of years so it’s no surprise we should crave its comfort now, in the darkest days of winter. If your fireplace has been largely decorative in the past, it’s time to upgrade your tools.

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photo:

Dot and Minnies in Perham

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Savor Hot Drinks

A winter retreat is the perfect time to upgrade your beverage order. Spring for that luscious dark roast coffee or a new organic tea you’ve been dying to try. Set out the good mugs (or invest in a few new versions) and let the warmth from your drink warm your hands as you sip.

photo:

Stumbeano’s Coffee Roasterie

Available at stumbeanos.com and Otter Coffee in Vergas

photo:

This is a tradition that doesn’t have to end in the morning. Kids (even the grown-up ones) appreciate the fun of marshmallow-laden cocoa or spiced cider as an afternoon treat.

And adults can add a splash of spirits to their cups as the evening shadows fall.

Linger Over Breakfast

Breakfast is often a mad rush. Many of us eat on the run or at our desks, if we make time for breakfast at all. Lingering over the table signals a break from the routines and rhythms of daily life, so slide into those slippers and settle into a decadent morning.

Start with the aforementioned hot beverages. Then add the newspaper, a favorite novel, some music or lively conversation. This is also a great time to prepare something a little more involved for breakfast, so bust out grandma’s cinnamon roll recipe, replicate your favorite brunch spot with strata or popovers or treat the kids to pancakes with real maple syrup.

New York Mills Cultural Center via Secret Garden in Park Rapids

Dine

Nothing says quality time like gathering together around the table. But you don’t need to slave over a hot stove to create new winter traditions and enjoy something warm with the people you love.

Face-to-Face Family Time

Everyday life is lived largely online. Now that more of us are working from home and attending school remotely, our virtual lives are more intertwined with our daily lives than ever.

So put the screens away and get the family together for a little old-fashioned fun.

Cook Together & Bake the Easy Way

Cooking is soothing. The scent of fresh bread and soup simmering away on the stove feels homey and healing. Gathering around a table with your family is a ritual that brings comfort deep in the heart of winter.

But packing up a long weekend’s worth of meals or restocking the cabin pantry can be time consuming and unnecessarily complicated. So make it easy on yourself and tuck in a few hearty premade meals so you can start your winter retreat on a stress-free note.

Just add water to the dried soup, try a bread mix or two and set out nibbles and a few flavorful dips for a feast that feels festive, but requires very little effort.

photo:

Papa’s Maple Syrup in Pelican Rapids

Available at Otter Coffee in Vergas

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Start a Game Night Tradition

Unplug and start a game night tradition. Classic board games like Monopoly and Scrabble always bring people to the table, while the littlest competitors enjoy Candy Land and Connect Four. A winter retreat is the perfect time to learn how to play chess or settle in for a game of Risk or Battleship, so dust off the overlooked options in the game cupboard or purchase that game you’ve always wanted to try.

If you forgot to pack board games, don’t fret. Try charades or reach for a simple deck of playing cards. Maybe this is the year you get a family poker game rolling or teach the kids to play the games that the older generations have long mastered – like hearts, cribbage (you can play without the board) or whist.

Try a Puzzle

Social media was flooded with puzzle photos last spring as a whole new generation discovered the magic of jigsaw puzzles during the early days of the pandemic. The appeal only grew stronger as winter progressed. Pull out a few favorites from the hall closet or purchase a few new puzzles to keep heads bent over the table for hours.

Jigsaw puzzles aren’t the only option – there are word and number puzzles, too. Word searches, crosswords and Sudoku puzzles are all available in books or in printable versions online.

photo:

Game Giant in Fargo

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Relax with a Book

Curling up with a book on a snowy afternoon is a cherished winter ritual. Reading allows the whole family to be together, yet off in their own separate worlds.

Don’t bring anything you feel obligated to read – this is about love, not duty. Read what inspires you, intrigues you, brings you comfort. Revisit your old favorite or dive into a juicy new thriller, romance or best-selling fiction title that’s been climbing the charts. Show the

Want a blast from the past and an all-natural adrenaline rush? Go sledding. Pick up a few plastic or foam boat-shaped sleds or saucers and bring the whole family. Or try an inflatable tube for a little extra cushion and support as you whiz down the hill.

Old fashioned toboggans and wooden snow sleds with runners are an investment, but last longer. They also double as decorative objects when not in use.

Get Out on the Ice

If you’re at the lake or near a frozen pond or river, don’t let all that ice go to waste. Lace up a pair of skates and get your blood flowing – or challenge the family to a pick-up game of pond hockey. Just check before heading to an outdoor rink, as COVID-19 regulations vary community to community.

Ice skates are a classic choice, but many new skaters find that it’s easier to learn on the wider blades of hockey skates. A pro can get

photo:

photo:

Heim-Made in Kelliher

you safely fitted for skates and make sure you have the necessary protective equipment (or hockey gear) you need to safely take your winter to the next level.

Set Out on Snowshoes

For a less high-impact winter activity, try snowshoeing. It’s the winter version of hiking, so you can explore many of the same spots you’d stroll during warmer weather, as well as specially groomed snowshoeing trails in city, state and regional parks and recreation areas.

Wintergreen Northern Wear in Ely

next generation what you used to read when you were their age or explore a whole new genre. Independent bookstores will happily recommend titles you’ll love, based on your previous favorites.

Choose your snowshoe size based on your weight (plus any gear you’ll be carrying) and the terrain and type of snow you’re likely to encounter. Then head out onto the trail.

Get Outdoors

Snowshoeing is a relaxing winter hobby for all ages to enjoy together. It also appeals to those who enjoy birding and wildlife watching, since there are different species active during the winter months and it’s easy to see tracks in the fresh snow.

Get your daily dose of vitamin D and a little physical activity by getting outside for at least a few minutes every day, even if it’s chilly.

Consider investing in a warm parka, snow pants and quality snow boots if yours aren’t up to snuff.

photo:

Fergus Home & Hardware

in Fergus Falls

Play in the Snow

Growing up is overrated, so get outside and play in the snow like you used to. Throw snowballs, make snow angels or try your hand at making a snowman – or an entire snow family.

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No matter how you fill your winter days and spend those chilly nights, this can be a season of rest, relaxation and revitalization. A few winter essentials, new family traditions and soothing rituals can transform our homes and cabins into a cozy winter retreat. ~L&H

D

DO IT YOURSELF

It may be winter, but that doesn’t mean the growing season is over. Bring nature indoors and make it feel like summer in every season with smart houseplant selections for every space – and (perhaps more importantly) every gardening skill level.

TRAILING PLANTS It can be challenging to find a spot for plants among the furniture. So access unused space and grow from the ceiling to the floor. This can also be a smart option for families with toddlers and dogs in the home, since it keeps tempting tendrils just out of reach.

Look for plants that cascade for a lush green look, even in the dead of winter. Consider plant size, leaf shape and color as well as the interior design elements in the room. Try multi-tiered pots in industrial stainless steel or weathered brass, hanging baskets of natural seagrass or even the modern reinterpretation of macramĂŠ, rendered in soothing, minimalistic neutrals.

Trailing plants are easy to find in garden centers and home improvement stores. Ivy has a classic appeal, many varieties to choose from and mounds easily. The spear-shaped leaves

The logical spot for an herb garden is the kitchen or pantry, but light should be the first – and most important – consideration. Herbs need at least six hours of sunlight a day, so find a southern exposure window for all herbs except for mint, thyme and parsley, which can do well in a west-facing window.

of the philodendron or sweetheart vine lend a minimalistic appeal to a contemporary room, while a string of hearts plant sends a cascade of silvery heart-shaped leaves spilling over the edges of a pot. The rich purple and green patterned leaves of plants in the tradescantia family add sumptuous color to a room. A spider plant’s long pale leaves dangle with baby spider plants – an easy way to expand an indoor garden.

Most of these plants favor a warm, slightly humid environment, so spritz them with water to increase the moisture in the air and avoid drainage issues. Keep them away from hot radiators and avoid contact with frosty windows. Let plants dry thoroughly before watering again.

HERBS Snipping a few fresh herbs to throw into a sauce or a soothing pot of tea can feel both magical and medicinal. Many herbs thrive indoors all year long.

Plant chives to add freshness and zip to mashed potatoes, fish dishes, hearty soups and dips. Or grow your own oregano for pizza, pasta, vinaigrettes and marinades. Marjoram is popular for flavoring sausages, preserved meats and wild game, while lemon balm adds a fresh citrus flavor to soups, seafood and chicken. It also makes an antioxidant-rich tea with anti-viral properties.

Good, even drainage is a must. (No one wants root rot, and water pouring straight through dry soil will wreck the finish on a window sill or tabletop.) Choose vessels with drainage holes or put the pot on a pedestal or saucer.

DESERT PLANTS Succulents store water in their leaves, stems or roots, which means that all cacti are succulents. There are many desert plants available, from delicate, to spiny, and everything in between. They’re hearty and easy to grow, which makes them a good choice for new and forgetful gardeners.

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The visual variety is astounding. The fat rosettes of the ghost plant succulent (a member of the jade family) are a dreamy blue green, while the zebra cactus resembles aloe, with long green leaves and bold white striations.

The tiny blooming star cactus and perfectly spherical old lady cactus are both easy to grow. The bright pink flowers of a Christmas cactus make it a winter showstopper. If well cared for, the plant will live for years.

Dry winter air is no problem for these desert species. Plant them in terra cotta pots (which pull excess moisture from the soil), shallow trays or clusters of small containers. They also look striking in low dish gardens and terrariums, both large and small. ~L&H

Photo courtesy: Iconic Style + Home

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O

ON THE LAKE

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Have you ever taken a seat in one of those

dear. We are now in the year 1900 when a

bers to test its progress along the way. Finally

signature lake chairs? Getting down there

man named Thomas Lee lived in Westport,

happy with it, he settled in for whatever came

might create a feeling of falling backwards,

just east of the mountains. He was a naturalist

next.

but once you land you are reminded that the

at heart, a man who took great pride in his

world is not just right in front of us or at our

community and the world around him. After

Harry C. Bunnell, Lee’s hunting friend, had

feet. There are wonders to be found up in the

graduating from Harvard, he soon found that

a carpentry shop in Westport. When he ex-

sky. After a moment you realize this is effort-

lawyer life was not for him. He dropped away

pressed his concerns about the coming

less and comfortable. Perhaps, it makes you

from law school and began working for the

winter with Lee, our inventor shared the de-

want to stay a while and watch those wonders

Smithsonian. There he took several expedi-

signs for the chair so Bunnell could sell them

unfold. These chairs became an icon in lake

tions aboard the Albatross, selling artifacts

to make a profit. He did so, modifying them

life‌ but where did they come from? Let’s go

and photos to the museum.

to be narrower, and they started to become

back in time for a moment.

very popular. Somewhat little is expressly Lee was educated, focused, and a driven in-

known about what transpired next. Bunnell

The chair came to be from a love of the out-

dividual. He also loved the Adirondack moun-

patented the design in April of 1904, claiming

doors, and still inspires this sentiment across

tains. He wanted to build a chair that would

it was his own in the patent documents. It is

the states today. Join me now in the northeast

withstand that unforgiving terrain and offer a

suggested Lee did not know this was going

region of New York state among the Adiron-

position of comfort. From 1900 to 1903, he

to happen, however, he made no effort to

dack Mountains, a place that holds nature

worked on his design, asking family mem-

dispute the claim for his design after the fact.

56 Lake & Home Magazine JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2021

Due to deforestation of hemlock, and the ever-growing difficulty in finding pieces without knots, the design was changed by Bunnell.

The seat and the back were made with narrow planks set together. The overall build also became narrower.

We move ahead to 1938 in New Jersey, where a modern carpenter named Irving Wolpin created a new type of Adirondack chair, which he patented. His changed to a rounded back and contorted seat, the design most popular today.

We may assume that the testimony of his great-great nephew, Bruce Ware, is correct. The Westport realtor met with a reporter for the Sun Community News and said, “he had no interest in manufacturing,” and describes it as a “gesture.” Lee was already a wealthy man, his family being a leader in fresh water bottling.

The Adirondack chair is also known as the Westport chair from Bunnell’s first version in the community, or the Muskoka chair which is the region in Canada where they grew in popularity. Building the original prototype, Lee used wide hemlock trees as single boards for the seat and back. With a wide armrest for setting a drink, and the tall sloped back, the seat offered a comfortable position, even when placed on a hill. On a flat surface, it directs your eyes to the wide and endless sky. This design also gave special consideration to the comforting position for soon-to-be mothers.

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As we move forward to life today, this chair is

is a flex as with a wooden chair as well, so the

Think back to its origins. The Adirondack chair

everywhere, in varying style, color, and type

comfort rating is higher for these than would

was built for a purpose of relaxation with a

of wood. They are a perfect addition to a lake

be for a metal form.

need for durability, and has grown into an in-

house. With so many different materials and

ternational icon for life at the lake. Lakeshore

colors to choose from, it would fit into any

Plastic and resin offer a wider variety for col-

terrain brings the chair back to its roots, and

design. Wood options are plenty. Teak is the

ors, but you can also paint your wooden chair

the sturdy build battles many winds or weath-

most durable and resistant to moisture, but it’s

in any color of your choosing. Styles also dif-

er. Relaxation, I find, is at the lake no matter

also the heaviest. Lighter choices would be

fer between the classic or traditional look, all

the day. What a fantastic place to breathe in

cedar or acacia as they are less dense than

the way to benches or loungers. With modern

the summer air and watch the boats go by!

the heavy teak.

trends come new features. We have otto-

Take a seat and stay a while. You’re home.

mans, cup holders, and the Adirondack chair

~L&H

Wood can fade after sun and moisture ex-

now folds if you like. Those are much more

posure, but there are other options for your

lightweight for portability. Seat-back designs

chairs. Plastic is a common material to use,

are evolving to take on unique shapes, such

which is the highest ranking in mobility and

as the outline of a state. What new innova-

lightness. Resin is another wood alternative

tions will we see next for this chair?

that is a bit more durable, with no rusting or fading as a plus. It would be an alternative option as resin pieces can be made to look like wood and are heavy against wind. There

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I

INTERIOR DESIGN

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It’s a beautiful afternoon at the lake, one of those days that feels like a scene from a greeting card photo. The lake looks like glass, warm sunshine spreads out across the cloudless blue sky, and a slight breeze that gently washes past without much fuss wanders into your office window.

You look up as it brushes over your skin, and see this scene outside. The photo of your family catches your eye from the corner of your desk, and you smile. Resolved, you return to the task at hand and let your fingers type away. Your toe taps to the rhythm of the music playing from the old fashioned record player. As you take a deep breath, the scent of vanilla and nutmeg floats up from your morning drink. You lean back in your chair, and take a revitalizing sip. As you consider your next move, your eyes travel around the room, taking inspiration where it comes. Each choice you made here is a reminder that this place is yours. You’re focused, clear headed, and ready to take on whatever project comes your way.

When creating your home office consider productivity, self reflection and a level of comfort. Whatever your work might be, the space you create for it at home will either

See more from this home on page 80

help or hinder. Let’s discuss a few ways that might help, and discover things that will divert any hindrances.

Productivity is essential for the home office.

When there is a routine of getting up and “going to work,” our focus might begin when we are taken accountable by others. When working from home, it may be very tempting to sleep in and start work in slippers if the office is just a few rooms away. Even if we have a routine, and feel confident in our responsibility, there are ways that the office itself can help us maintain the order we desire.

De-cluttering is in! A clear space mirrors our clear mind. Minimize your desk, or main work surface to help direct your focus to what matters. Items here should be poignant in their necessity and their motivating ability. A useful tactic is to surround yourself with visible goals.

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If out of sight means out of mind, perhaps the same goes for goals seen right in front of you.

There are a wide variety of things this could represent for us. In a prominent location, you can place a symbol of your reason for working. Images such as the picture of your family, loved one or loyal pet are an instant reminder. A photo of the resort for the vacation after a major project has completed is an example.

To fit the goal feature, it should be something that you are working towards, a reward to be received, or a positive effect such as a promotion. Placing the symbol of this goal where you will see it while you work helps to bring that motivation to the front of your mind, a gentle reminder that you are a driven individual. Anything that truly matters to you could be the motivational piece here. It can also be an inspiration for a future goal, or a reminder of how far you’ve come already.

Other pieces placed here should be commonly used. Anything used every day would

need to be in arm’s reach, or put on the front of the shelf. Less used items can be stowed or set in the back. Benjamin Franklin once said, “A place for everything, and everything in its place.” While that may not always be a manageable tactic, we can make bountiful use of sensible storage cabinets or cupboards. If the items inside will help to focus your work, then an open cabinet or shelf makes sense.

Although it’s not obvious, we give attention to everything around us. Keeping supplies in a cabinet that has opaque doors or drawers will reduce the amount of attention being pulled in another direction. Consider the effect of kitchen cabinets versus a bookshelf full of titles and knickknacks. The storage piece can blend in with your room design as well, so why not let it be a part of your story? Built-in storage shelving maximizes the use of the space, and would blend well with the entire room.

If you are like me, and feel refreshed after re-arranging a space, choosing free-standing storage can offer the ability to change things up every now and then.

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Now that we are clear of mind and focused, let’s look at the art of brainstorming. I’ve had that moment where the wall hits me, and I can’t think of any options. For my home office, I keep an idea book handy with clippings from a number of sources. If that works for you, a designated drawer can be useful.

Do you think best on your feet where you can get the blood pumping in a purposeful pacing motion? Create a pacing space or a stretch area for a quick yoga meditation. Do you think best with your eyes closed, music playing and the rest of the world shut out? Ramp up the ambiance in your space.

Choose a sound system and stock it with good thinking music, and perhaps the use of a built-in niche where it can be accessed by simply opening the cabinet.

If your work is hands on, try talk radio, or good tempo activity music that makes you smile.

The ability to keep those beautiful brain cogs turning is definitely a must when designing this room. Something as simple as choosing

the right blinds to help shut out distractions while you think, will do the trick.

information that can be helpful in making an uncertain choice.

If you study Feng Shui, you already know that color and visuals are important in creating a space with energy flow. Concepts like having your desk face the door, or placing a mirror where you sit that shows you the entry underscore how design is used as a practical and spiritual means of arranging. Having a sturdy desk will ground you, while a lighter-built desk will allow you to feel untied.

Self reflection is what makes the office yours.

Tell the story of who you are with the choices you make here. Designs can make you feel bold or calm with a simple color switch or fabric exchange. I was renovating a house years ago, and it came to the office. I chose a color based on my desire to feel inspired as a writer, granny apple green. This was highly debated among my family, and the consensus was that I had lost a few marbles. I painted the room, and finished half a book before we ended up moving. The color was quite a sight. It was bright, and made you feel alert, but its purpose was met without question. The only thing I would do differently is to restrict the wall color to only the wall I faced, so others were not so overwhelmed by it. Perhaps an accent wall is just right for you.

Colors can be selected to match the goal for your type of work. White or pastels help with clarity or purity, and are often the choice for a writer to act as a blank canvas for the imagination. Green represents growth and vitality, such that a grower or educator would thrive. Black is a water color, and gives the ideal mind set for those who work in money.

Purple is a fire color, and is surprisingly also a clarity color with a vibrant twist. Because it is such a strong color, it is usually advised to be used in moderation. Feng Shui is a universe of

66 Lake & Home Magazine JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2021

Comfort improves productivity with the right balance. Consider your chair. If your daily work involves a lot of sitting, make it matter.

Comfort is essential, but keep in mind a balance between this and the ability to feel active. When selecting your chair try to think; soft but strong, comforting and energizing.

The desk chair has come so far in the past 50 years, that we are able to choose from a wide variety of ergonomic luxury. Consider the lumbar support, firm footing stools, and padded wrist rests. All these things can be beautiful and still hold a purpose. To make your chair options even more versatile, you can add a softer, more comfortable chair in another corner for times of deep thought. Not only does this provide a functional space, it also adds a design element.

The home office is a room with a very specific purpose, and it can be designed to suit that purpose just for you. Once you know why you do what you do, what you want when you’re done, and how to help do it right, nothing can slow you down.

Energize yourself, and empower your home as a place for work. When the work is done step into your greeting card photo, and live your well-earned life. You deserve it. ~L&H

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B

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

F

ergus Falls is the hub of shopping for the Lakes Region, and Fergus Home & Hardware is the destination for those who seek a customer centered shopping experience. With over 13 separate departments to cater to the various needs of cabin and home owners, this esteemed local home center can provide ease of shopping while completing every task on your home improvement to do checklist as a weekly shopping destination.

Fergus Home & Hardware started out as Cullen’s Home Center back in 2004. The current owners Dan and Tonya Zierden were partners in a group that originally owned the business which is still located at 1005 North Tower Road in Fergus Falls. The couple are now the sole owners and have continued to expand the store to create a new and exciting shopping location for Fergus Falls.

The team at Fergus Home & Hardware shared their insights on not only their company, but what sets their 30,000 square feet of showroom apart from their competition.

HOW DID FERGUS HOME & HARDWARE BEGIN? In 2015, we added the hardware store and rebranded the business into Fergus Home & Hardware. By the spring of 2019, we became affiliated with Hardware Hank (United Hardware) out of Plymouth, Minn. Having a Minnesota connection has helped with brand recognition and adds to its reputation of being a valued hardware store. The business was then rebranded into Fergus Home & Hardware.

In September of 2020, Fergus Home & Hardware purchased The Country Store of Fergus Falls and merged their product lines.

We proudly now carry farm animal feed, pet food, grass and bird seed and Muck boots all conveniently located within our store for your shopping convenience.

WHAT IS THE BUSINESS PHILOSOPHY OF FERGUS HOME & HARDWARE? We go above and beyond for our employees and our valued customers. It is through these moments of reaching farther and further for them, that we exceed expectations. Because of this company mindset, we have been able to build relationships with our customers and each other that could only happen in a small town.

WHAT IS THE MOST UNIQUE ITEM YOUR STORE CARRIES OR CAN ORDER FOR CLIENTS? It’s tough choosing just one item, we have over 10 departments and through our Hardware Hank warehouse we have access to over 55,000 items. Because our store is

independently owned, we carry more brand names than many big box stores. We also can place specialty orders if we do not have something on hand that a customer might need for a project.

Some of the items we exclusively carry in our store include The Big Green Egg cooking systems, and regionally made items like Sewer Skewers, SnirtStopper, Bobber Buddy products, and items made from Productive Alternatives just to name a few.

If I have to choose just one item that stands out, it has to be the heated stadium seat which is a must for every hockey and outdoor sports fan! By being battery powered, they keep fans warm while they cheer on their favorite team.

WHAT SETS YOU APART FROM OTHER STORES? Our employees are customer focused, and we pride ourselves on taking the time to listen to customers and help them find what they are looking for. We also price match.

If someone finds an item at another store in town at a lower price than we offer, we’ll match it! We want people to shop at our locally owned and operated store.

We deliver our products both in town and within 25 miles from our store. Customers also have the option to have us haul away old appliances, and our staff is happy to install new appliances that they purchase from Fergus Home & Hardware.

Our in-store appliance repair team is trained and ready to fix and maintain your major appliances including refrigerators, dishwashers, clothes washer/dryers, microwaves and more. Our service area extends from Pelican Rapids to Elbow Lake and from the city of Henning to Barnesville, Minn. Our service coordinator is available to take your calls Monday through Thursday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Friday mornings.

We also offer curbside service that brings a new option for ease of shopping. Simply call ahead and pay over the phone, and we can have in stock items brought out to your car and placed in your trunk as soon as you arrive.

WHAT DEPARTMENTS MAKE UP FERGUS HOME & HARDWARE? Appliances – We carry national brands of major appliances to fit every budget: Amana, Beko, Bosch, Frigidaire, KitchenAid, LG, Maytag, Samsung, Thermador, Whirlpool, Wolf and more!

Blinds & Window Treatments – We offer Hunter Douglas blinds and window treatments.

Fabrics can be custom ordered through us for curtains, drapes or accent pillows and upholstery.

Cabinets / Countertops – Waypoint, Mid Continent and Starmark lines of cabinets and a wide variety of quartz, granite and laminate countertop options are available to view in our showroom.

Grills – Our lines include: Weber, Traeger, and The Big Green Egg grills and smokers, as well as accessories to go with each.

Fireplaces – We carry wood and gas fireplaces and install gas options.

Hardware – Fergus Home & Hardware is a full-service hardware store with plumbing, electrical, hand tools, power tools, custom doors and windows, and small appliances.

Flooring – Within our store we showcase custom and in-stock selections of carpeting, luxury vinyl plank, sheet vinyl and laminate flooring. We do in-home measuring with free installation estimates. Our flooring installers are some of the most experienced in the area who pride themselves on getting the job done right the first time.

Furniture – The furniture showroom has a wide variety of Ashley furniture including bedroom furniture, recliners, sofas, tables and chairs, and beautiful accessories.

Lighting – We carry Kichler, as well as various other brands of lights and bulbs.

Paint – We sell multiple lines of Valspar paint, Cabot stains and can color match virtually any color.

over 20 years of experience in construction and design. He walks customers through the process of determining what style, function and budget will work best for them. He gives them a rendering of what the project will look like and works hard to keep things on time and on budget.

Mattresses/Beds - Our store carries a wide selection of Serta mattresses including iComfort brands, we are also an America’s Mattress dealer.

Pet Food & Country Store products – We carry NutriSource pet food from KLN Family Brands (made in Perham, Minn.), and a wide variety of bird seed, grass seed and agriculture products.

Skate Shop – A dedicated section of our store holds a wide selection of hockey and figure skating equipment including sticks/pads, skates and accessories.

HOW DOES FERGUS HOME & HARDWARE SERVE CUSTOMERS LOOKING TO UPDATE THEIR HOME OR LAKE CABIN? From top to bottom, we can help! Our kitchen and bathroom designer, John Filippello, has

The team at Fergus Home & Hardware will personally measure your home, work with the existing structures and can tie the new and old together as seamlessly as possible. With the many options available in appliances, flooring, paint, and furniture we can help guide our customers to find the right products that will fit their needs and will bring them joy.

Our interior designer, Jeanne Hoppe, can help customers navigate these choices to make their home reflect their unique style.

By calling to make an appointment with either John Filippello for kitchens and bathrooms, or Jeanne Hoppe for their interior design needs, we can help our customers begin to make their design dreams come true.

WHAT IS THE AVERAGE LENGTH OF TIME FROM INSPIRATION OF A PROJECT TO INSTALLATION OR COMPLETION? Each project is unique, just as our customers are. The bigger and more detailed the project, the longer it will take. Because we work with numerous independent contractors, we often have more opportunities to get projects done sooner rather than later. Our workmen are well respected in the area, and pride themselves on quality craftsmanship.

WHAT TRENDS DO YOU SEE IN HOME AND CABIN UPDATES FOR 2021?

We are seeing a trend towards high contrast colors for home and cabins. Previously black was used primarily as an accent color, but it is now being used on walls and for window trims and doors. We are seeing less of a demand for all white rooms, and while gray is still a strong wall color it is trending in darker shades. The biggest design comeback for

the new year is darker jewel tones to bring a new warmth to the home.

WHAT BRINGS YOU THE MOST JOY FROM BEING A PART OF THE FERGUS HOME & HARDWARE TEAM? Being complimented by our customers is probably the best part of being an employee of Fergus Home & Hardware. As a company of only 22 employees, we are a second family to each other, and customers’ appreciation emphasizes that we are doing things right.

More than anything it is great to be part of this community, and work with amazing people to help our customers accomplish their design dreams and finish their projects.

That is what brings us joy at Fergus Home & Hardware, being there for you. ~L&H

I

INTERIOR DESIGN

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I don’t have to tell you that 2020 was definitely a unique year.

In fact, it was so unique it made the design trends for 2021 some of the most interesting trends I have seen in a long time. As consumers are spending a lot more time in their spaces, designers are becoming more and more creative as to how to make a house a home. Not only do you live there, you work there, exercise there, homeschool there and try to find both entertainment and peace there.

You’ll find in the 2021 design trends below, common themes of cozy, comfortable, relaxing, and nature-centric. We find ourselves longing to bring the outdoors in, longing for what feels familiar from years past and longing to decorate with unique pieces that catch the eye. words by Danae Branson Let’s dive into the design trends for 2021 to see if any of them resonate with you!

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photo provided by Sara Godfrey Design www.saragodfreydesign.com

photo provided by // Sara Godfrey Design // www.saragodfreydesign.com

1.

Cottage – Doesn’t the simple cottage

life sound great about now? Quaint and elegant with a rustic charm. The trend is to inject character with interesting features such as exposed beams, original floorboards, and paneled walls – all while keeping a balance of old and new.

2.

Arts & Crafts – I’m not talking

about displaying all the arts and crafts projects you created during quarantine, but I am talking about incorporating more handmade pieces and less machine-made pieces into your design. People are starting to appreciate the value of handmade items a lot more and are shopping with local craftspeople, searching Etsy, and finding newfound hobbies that allow them to create the items they most want to see in their homes.

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photo provided by // Sara Godfrey Design www.saragodfreydesign.com

3.

Tropical – As we yearn for beach

vacations in warmer locales, the laidback lifestyle of Hawaii is calling us. Think contemporary and bright tropical design with subtle monotones and soft yellows.

Bring the outdoors in with greenery and the calm and relaxing colors of sand, water and sun. This tropical trend is everything from bright florals to palm leaves galore. If you just want to dip your toe in the water, have fun with a tropical theme in a powder room, office or guest bedroom.

4.

Granny Chic –Yes, I wrote Granny Chic.

As people crave cozy details such as what you might find at grandma’s house, pretty florals, pleated lampshades and elegance has been in high demand. Think quilts, needlepoints and kitschy furnishings. The one thing that reminds me of grandma that I have yet to see is doilies, but there is always next year.

5.

Vintage – Anything salvaged, repurposed, antique or retro paired

with rich fabrics and statement lighting can still give a modern look. The less-is-more approach is the trend where the few amazing pieces really make a visual difference. Use your most prized vintage pieces as focal points and let those pieces inspire the room.

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6.

Unique Wall Coverings – Walls

that add interest to a space have long been gaining traction, but this year we are going to see textured wallpaper, bold finishes, lots of florals and even living walls. Yes, plants growing from the walls and ceilings are going to be a thing.

photo provided by // Sara Godfrey Design www.saragodfreydesign.com

7.

Multifunctional Spaces – This should

be no surprise as people found themselves in their homes a lot more over the past year. Creative storage solutions along with design have us doubling-up rooms to serve us for more than one function. I have seen rooms doing double duty as a guest room/office, dining room/classroom and den/home gym.

8.

Earth Tones – Nature is playing a huge role in

this year’s trends and industry experts are seeing consumers continuing to be drawn to wine reds, golden yellows, sagey greens and dark browns. Earth tones are calming, relaxing and invoke feelings of serenity and don’t we all need a bit of serenity now!

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9.

Hidden Hardware – Minimalist details are becoming increasingly

popular in kitchens as we see latches, handles and pulls disappear to create a more calming look with clean lines. Flat paneled cabinets and drawers with push to open features are popping up everywhere.

10.

White Ceramic Décor

–

Creamy-hued ceramics are both modern and Zen, which is why industry experts predict they will be wildly popular in 2021. Everything from vases to figurines to wall décor are being produced in white ceramic. ~L&H

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F

FEATURE HOME

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H

idden in the woods near Walker, Minn., is a Norwegian-inspired craftsman home named Stein Hytte, which means “stone cottage.”

The family had always dreamed of building a property, and after seven years of owning the land, they decided it was time to create their vision.

“The property was completely wooded, just solid forest land,” Bob said. “I used to stroll through it just imagining what we could create.”

The homeowners own a three-bedroom lake home right across the highway, a quick walk or golf cart ride away from the new property.

When two of their three children relocated back to the Minneapolis area with their families, they decided they wanted to expand their lake place and make more room for their children and grandchildren.

Bob and Sally are from Grand Forks but have been spending their summers in the Walker area for over 30 years. They have built many friendships during their years on the lake, and they felt their children would want to revisit and continue to be connected to the area.

“During this pandemic, it’s been a godsend for our kids because they work from home,” Bob said. “They could come up and shelter at home at Stein Hytte.”

After a few years of dreaming, Bob and Sally decided that it was time to build their dream cottage and interviewed four architectural firms in the Twin Cities area.

They chose Peterssen/Keller Architecture and contracted with them to design the whole property. “We had never built anything before, so it was quite a learning experience for us.”

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The firm interviewed both of the homeowners individually and gave them a 25-page packet to complete in an attempt to ferret out any possible problems and get a clearer picture of what both of the homeowners were envisioning.

The design requests were for a “not so big house” with ample storage, multifunctional spaces, and visual sightlines throughout the home. They also wanted relatively small bedrooms and spaces for family interaction.

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“Communication is the key to a great project, and the homeowners were both very responsive and decisive,” Spitzack continued. “They were both very interested in all of the details that go into the building process and were very good to work with.”

During the bidding process, a packet was given to each of the builders they interviewed. The packet for the builders included structural building plans and specific engineering requirements for the HVAC system. Aquarius Home Services installed a high-tech geothermal system in the home and 12 wells on the property.

Bob’s Norwegian roots are sprinkled throughout the property, including a unique piece attached to the stone chimney, a 7-foot, stainless steel, weather-resistant Viking sword. This custom made piece requested

by Bob was created by metalsmith and designer David Badman of Badman Design located in Grand Forks, ND. Red asphalt shingles and red window frames pop against the earthy green colored cement board siding.

The triple-paned windows from Marvin Windows allow for great energy conservation and make the home exceptionally quiet. The zeromaintenance patio is made of IPE decking, a sustainable, extremely dense hardwood from South America.

The homeowners interviewed and received bids from three different builders before ultimately choosing Mark Spitzack of Spitzack Builders Inc., a second-generation builder in the area.

Spitzack said, “We offer the full range of construction services to our clients. Whether it is a new home, a renovation, or addition, we custom build our client’s dreams into reality.”

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Stonework surrounds the base of the 2,900-squarefoot home and covers the chimney. Real Stone Supply of Bagley, Minn., furnished and prepared the harvested fieldstone, and D. Larson Masonry from Bemidji placed the pieces in a beautiful tight pattern.

one of the many ways the homeowners captured and utilized space in the home.

“When you walk in the front door you will find yourself looking down a long hallway into the common living room area,” Bob said. “However, what strikes a person when they are walking in is this odd little door that I call the hobbit door.”

There are windows between the dining area and porch, so they can throw those open and still be connected to the individuals eating in the next room or have it closed off during family gatherings.

A children’s play area under the stairway complete with two porthole windows, overstuffed pillows, toys, and games, is called the Hobbit House and is

Beyond that is the great room with built-in cabinetry and a gas fireplace made of Minnesota stacked sliced fieldstone.

Sally used the help of her daughter and daughterin-law when designing and decorating the kitchen and chose not to use an interior designer.

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“They are the two primary users of this space,” Sally said. “I was adamant that how this looked and functioned didn’t just reflect me, but it reflected the girls and their families.”

The room has a Scandinavian contemporary feel to it, with its more neutral color scheme of blues and grays.

The beautiful dark blue painted island in the middle of the room pops against the beautiful custom cabinets made by Lampert’s Cabinets Inc., of Walker.

The light Silestone countertops have a matte suede finish to them, are impervious to staining, and have a hydrophobic surface making liquids bead up when spilled. The counter is virtually maintenance-free and looks like marble.

Making sure the kitchen space could be utilized well was important to Sally. For example, they made sure the bar area was on the other side of the room, so if someone is fixing cocktails, they won’t be in the cook’s space.

LED lighting is throughout the home. The homeowners picked out the light fixtures themselves with the help of lighting consultant Michael Mauch, from The Collection on 5 in Minneapolis.

The handmade copper light fixtures in the kitchen area are from Rejuvenation Lighting in Portland, Ore. Sally added, “Michael was very helpful. Once he got the feel of what we were looking for,

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The master suite on the main floor also has a cathedral ceiling. The tile shower in the master bathroom was meticulously pieced together by lining up as much of the veining as possible, giving it a sense of flow.

There are pocket doors throughout the home, including the master suite, so that it can be closed off from the rest of the house for privacy. These doors were used throughout the home to save space.

A half-bath and a laundry room off the kitchen completes the main level of the home.

The second floor of the home has two bedrooms and one bathroom. Halfway up the staircase is a landing that includes a library nook.

There is also a large flex space at the top of the stairway that can change and morph with the family as the grandkids get older.

The woodwork used throughout the home is knotty alder, and the floors are made of maple.

he would suggest different lighting companies to consider. It was worth spending time with him.

That is the benefit of working with experts.�

The homeowners opted against having a fullscreen porch and instead installed French casement windows to reduce dirt and pollen and allow them to use the space year-round as well.

The wood-burning fireplace in the porch is another unique feature of this home. It is a Rumford Renaissance fireplace from Toronto, ON, Canada, and is a design resembling that of 18th century England. It is taller and shallower than a typical fireplace creating more reflected heat.

The piece was ordered and installed by Wilkening Fireplace of Walker, has an EPA rating, and is environmentally sound.

The flooring in this space is slate, and the beams above have LED lights inside of them that illuminate the cathedral ceiling.

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“Something that blew me away during the building was the quality of the craftsmen in Northern Minnesota,” Bob said. “I’m referring to the mason, the cabinet shop builders, the painters, the details it took to get everything perfected.”

Bob continued, “The individuals that Mark Spitzack has working with and for him did an amazing job.”

There are sure to be many lifelong memories made at Stein Hytte for years to come for Bob and Sally’s family. ~L&H

The home was primarily built on crawl space, but it also has a small basement.

The 120-square-foot space includes a mechanical room and serves as an extra storage space and storm shelter for the homeowners.

The double gabled, 2,800 square foot shop floor plan was designed by Bob on his iPad. The building includes a large garage with space for boats and extra storage on one side.

The other side of the building includes an office in the back facing the woods and a large recreational room complete with a pool table and a loft space.

A woodworking shop sits on the other side of sliding wood doors, and a bathroom completes the building. The shop building has in-floor geothermal heat.

A two-door unheated garage sits on the opposite side of the property.

Bob did the landscaping design with the help of Turf Tech, located in Walker.

All three buildings on the property have 3-foot-wide crushed granite surrounding them. The gutters feed into underground drains that move water away from the house, and they have French drains in the driveway.

The driveway is made of pea gravel, so water does not accumulate on it.

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CouLDn’t have done it without: Spitzack Builders Inc

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F

FEATURE HOME

Initially, the plan was only to acquire hunting land.

As avid outdoors people, homeowners Paul and Christie wanted to secure a large parcel of land on the edge of lake country where they could enjoy nature, relax and stage hunting expeditions with their family and groups of friends. In early 2012, they came across the ideal property. The 160 acres encompassed forest and rolling terrain with ponds, wetlands and a section of creek that feeds into the west branch of the Rum River flowing through it.

Aside from deer and the usual array of small game, the acreage draws bear, grouse, wild turkeys, ducks and geese, according to Paul.

It also included a rustic hunting shack with no running water, which he compares in size to a double garage. “It was actually on stilts,” he says, “a foot off the ground.”

The couple added 40 adjacent acres in 2013, and another 35 acres two years after that, bringing together 235 acres of contiguous land.

Connecting With a Builder “It was sometime in 2018 when we started kicking around the idea of moving up here,” says Paul. And that started the process of identifying what they wanted a home to be like.

In February 2019, they made a trip to the Lake Home and Cabin Show in Minneapolis with the intent of talking to some prospective builders.

One of the first contractors that caught their attention was Wes Hanson Builders. “They had a very nice booth,” says Paul. “A timber frame around the booth and pictures of a model house that was really gorgeous. We were glued to those images and couldn’t forget them.”

The couple spent about 15 minutes talking to the Wes Hanson team about what they envisioned for their home. “The house was really a vision I had in my head,” says Paul.

“He was taking good notes and sketching stuff out.” And then they moved on to identify additional prospects.

The couple met with two other builders at the show and followed up on one local referral, eventually collecting four designs based on their description of what they wanted.

“The description of what I wanted was pretty much the same for all the builders that we spoke to,” he says. “And we did go through the concept phase with each of them. One of the other companies came close to what we wanted, but Wes Hanson just nailed it.

They obviously listened to what I was saying and then put it to paper.”

Gateway to the Outdoors The design of their home needed to facilitate their connection to the outdoors, easily transitioning from outdoor rooms and recreational areas to comfortable and inviting indoor spaces for living and entertaining, says Christie.

Furthermore, the home needed places for groups of friends and family to stay for several days at a time throughout the year, whether that was related to a specific hunting activity, or just to enjoy the surroundings through ATV rides or exploring the woods around the home. It also needed to provide those accommodations without feeling too big and empty during day-to-day living when they were alone in the house.

“We wanted to have something that really had that Up North feel, with big timbers and a rustic appearance — not so much log construction, but so you felt like you were showing up at the lodge.”

- homeowner

“We wanted to have something that really had that Up North feel, with big timbers and a rustic appearance — not so much log construction, but so you felt like you were showing up at the lodge,” says Paul.

The Final Decision With the intention of creating a legacy residence for the family over the long term, Paul and Christie chose to include their family in the final decision between the four builders’ concepts.

“We actually went on a trip with the family,” says Paul. “Everybody took their own time to look over the four designs without influencing anybody else. Then, after a couple of days of reviewing them, we sat everybody down and asked which one they liked the best.”

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The Wes Hanson design was the unanimous choice. “It was a fun process and pretty unbelievable that everybody came up with the same one,” he says.

“We do high-end, custom luxury homes,” says Matt Schmidt, design principal at Wes Hanson Builders. “So every project that we do has this next level of fun and uniqueness to it.

In this instance, it is a residence, but it’s also where family and friends come a number of times throughout the year for hunting and gatherings.”

Putting It Together In his successful design, he paid particular attention to scale. One of the challenges included providing space needed for entertaining large groups with overnight accommodations without seeming too massive, and also for the display of the couple’s mounts without seeming crowded or cluttered.

“You want to give them this cool and amazing backdrop, where they become part of the experience and everything has

enough space to breathe, visually,” he says.

“Everywhere you look you are going to notice a different detail. We wanted to create a space that pays respects to the family’s traditions, as well as the actual hunt and the game.”

“I actually drew this one blind,” says Schmidt.

“I never physically saw the property before we presented the drawing to them.” A key takeaway of their consultation included a pond they wanted the home to overlook.

“Lake homes are predominantly what we work on, so we had a pretty good idea of how to take advantage of water views,” he says.

A Natural Fit For the exterior, the property was heavily wooded, but not with tall pines or majestic oaks that needed to be preserved, Schmidt recalls. “We wanted something that looked kind of natural, built into this hillside with a walkout and replacing a bunch of trees.” His design included mainly wood surfaces and timber structural aspects, with some metal details.

“When you’re dealing with a little larger structure you want to have siding that helps with the proportions,” he says. “So, you lean a little more heavily on horizontal aspects.

A heavier, horizontal line helps keep it from seeming too tall, too overly massive and upright. It helps the eye visually balance things and then staining it in a little bit darker color also visually shrinks it.”

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A Dramatic Reveal Paul and Christie’s vision for the floor plan included positioning the kitchen and dining rooms on the main level, just inside the entryway, with the master suite to one side and access to the garage on the other.

However, their desire to entertain large groups and be able to have them feel like they were all together wherever they were in the home led to the need for large, open spaces.

The couple asked for a great room set on the lower level, with a walkout connection to the outdoors and overlooked by the main floor. This allows those highly-desired views of the property to be seen from all areas of the house, including the kitchen and dining areas on the front side of the building.

“That’s what’s neat about this place,” says Schmidt. “You walk in and there’s just this little entry vestibule, but then you walk out of that and all of a sudden there’s this big reveal: immediate relief up to this huge vaulted ceiling. As you continue to walk, then all of a sudden there’s a release down as well. It almost doubles the drama of your experience. So as you walk in, you say: ‘Oh, wow, this is really nice.’ Then you get over there and you’re like, ‘Oh, okay, that’s spectacular!’”

We wanted to create a space that pays respects to the family’s traditions, as well as the actual hunt and the game.”

- Matt Schmidt // wes Hanson Home builders

Mixed textures also helped to create interest and enhance curb appeal. Although the majority of the home is covered with 10-inch Scandinavian log siding in pine to achieve the desired horizontal emphasis, the gable area of the garage and the front entry display are a contrasting, cedar vertical board-and-batton siding.

Above the entryway, the house’s gable is covered with cedar shakes, which serve as a visual break to the vertical presence of the board-and-batton below.

The design uses reclaimed corrugated steel roofing as an accent, along with stonework that appears in several places across the facade. These elements and the circle-sawn timbers became important visual elements for unifying the rustic theme of the exterior with the interior.

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The fireplace serves more than just the great room. It has two independent flues, supporting a hearth on the inside and a second outside, facing a covered patio.

“I really wanted a nice space outside so that we could be out there, as well. During deer season, people that have their tags filled usually spend their time out there relaxing and listening for action out on the acreage,” says Paul.

With that kind of space, both inside and outside the home, the design needed something to tie it together. Something grand enough to balance the spectacular views and proportional to the immense wall space created by the multistory great room. The feature that became that exclamation mark in this design is the fireplace.

Schmidt chose to use real stone to create this signature feature in the home. But rather than deal with the weight and expense of fulldimension stone on this 40-foot structure, he chose thin veneer applied to a wood frame.

This choice cut the cost of the feature nearly in half and simplified its construction.

“My favorite part of the home is probably the fireplace,” says Christie. “I think the fireplace is just so grand. I love to sit on the couch and have a nice fire going.”

The fireplace also offered Christie the most memorable event in the home’s construction.

“They actually let me put the last two stones in place at the top of the fireplace,” she says.

“They are the two stones directly below the beam,” added Paul. “They had scaffolding going all the way up there. They put Christie in a harness and got her up there, too.” Paul passed on the chance to set one of the stones. “There was no way I was going up there!” he emphasized with more than a little humor in his voice.

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“as you walk in, you say: ‘Oh, wow, this is really nice.’ Then you get over there and you’re like, ‘Oh, okay, that’s spectacular!’”

- Matt Schmidt // wes Hanson Home builders

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“I am never scared of a challenge.

If you do it correctly, it turns out sensational and completely your own.

Their unique needs called for this to be designed as a hunting lodge first and a residence second.”

- Matt Schmidt // wes Hanson Home builders

Space for Family and Friends The fireplace hearth faces into the great room, which occupies most of the lower level, with comfortable seating under the vault to enjoy the warmth of the fire and relax with family and friends. The adjacent space, tucked under the main level, is an open recreational room with a pool table, wet bar and television.

“We really like having a gathering place where people can socialize and relax at the end of the day, where everybody can be in the same room,” says Paul. “Some people might watch a movie on the TV over on the great room side, while others play pool and sit at the bar.”

Next to the great room, beneath the master suite are two bedrooms, one for Paul’s mother who lives with the couple and one for his son and his family when they visit.

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A Modern Hunting Shack With high-peaked rooflines that match the house and the grade to support a walkout design, the garage offered Schmidt a unique canvas to create spaces that address all of the couple’s needs as avid hunters.

“Unique lots lead to unique solutions and unique structures,” says Schmidt. “I really get excited by that. I am never scared of a challenge. If you do it correctly, it turns out sensational and completely your own. Their unique needs called for this to be designed as a hunting lodge first and a residence second. As silly as that sounds, that is what it is.”

To support their activities, Paul and Christie asked for a processing room where they could dress out their game. They also wanted space for freezers and a walk-in cooler to hang the meat. It needed easy access to the outside and indoor/outdoor space for the dogs, as well as places to clean them up after being

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Bonus Rooms and Under-Garage Space “Bonus rooms are something that we’ve done a number of times,” explains Schmidt. “What makes this one really unique is trying to fully maximize capacity. To me, it almost took on a form kind of like a cowboy camp.”

A private lounge area connects the bunk rooms, where guests can go to get away from the group, or hang out privately to watch television in the early morning or late evenings. It includes a breakfast bar, a pair of bathrooms paired with independently enclosed showers and — at Christie’s insistence — a laundry closet.

Across the home, you find laundry facilities on every floor, so no one has to drag bedding and linens up and down stairs, all the way to a central location to be washed.

The use of precast concrete floor panels allowed Schmidt to create space underneath the garage that he used to deliver the processing room. That helped to keep the house from becoming too massive in scale.

The room features include an epoxy-coated

“When we’re able to start from the very beginning with the builder, architect and the client, to make construction material selections, like flooring, cabinetry and countertops, the details of future furnishings become a natural extension.”

- Annie Graunke // Studio M interiors

out in the ponds and fields. Furthermore, they needed to replace the functionality of the hunting shack as a common bunkhouse for the hunting parties.

Schmidt gave them all they asked for and more by turning the garage into a separate wing of the building. The garage, situated at the same grade as the main floor, gave them bonus space above which he turned into a pair of bunk rooms that together can accommodate as many as 24 guests, according to Paul.

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Connecting the processing room to the great room of the main house is a large mud room equipped with lockers for hunting outerwear and boots and other equipment.

It also includes bathrooms people can use conveniently without tracking field debris through the house or needing to shed their outerwear. Lastly, it houses a walk-in locker to safely store shotguns, rifles and bows.

floor, full kitchen amenities, the walk-in cooler, a dog-care/grooming area and kennels with indoor/outdoor space. “There’s also a rail, just like a meat locker, so you can hang the game and pull it right into the cooler,” says Schmidt.

Paul says the processing room has become his favorite feature in the house.

Curating Rustic Charm

“In the past, say if Christie went out and shot a deer, she would come in and be all excited.

We would hang it up in our pole barn and do the after-the-kill stuff to it,” explains Paul, who butchers and processes all the game on the premises. “Typically, the girls were

Although Paul and Christie had definite ideas about how they wanted the home to be set up and function, aside from a general sense of a rustic lodge feel, they were not sure how to make it all fit together.

“Wes Hanson was laying out the footprint for excavating and asked if we had an interior designer,” says Paul “We didn’t, so they recommended Studio M Interiors.”

in the house having a celebratory cocktail or something — and not with us. This way, everybody can be together down there. We can listen to the stories and we can talk while we’re taking care of the animal.”

Furthermore, the room is equipped with a glass roll-up door that allows the room to be open to the outside when the weather cooperates and allows Paul to drive game all the way into the room on his side-by-side.

Paul says that he frequently finds himself down there on random evenings when Christie is busy, pulling meat out of the cooler to make sausages or other related activities.

The couple made the connection with designer Annie Graunke (studiom-int.com) and got to work. After conversations with Paul and Christie, she set a course for something “rustic, but very classic and inviting,” she says.

Although the home was very large in scale, Graunke sensed that family was very important to the couple and this property would play an integral role in making memories and time spent together. “The design’s emphasis on detail in every aspect of this project reflect the homeowner’s desires and will be a forever home for them.”

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Graunke notes that her team often works on new construction and that offers many advantages. “When we’re able to start from the very beginning with the builder, architect and the client, to make construction material selections, like flooring, cabinetry and countertops, the details of future furnishings become a natural extension,” says Graunke.

“Colors, textures, layers and interesting details tell the whole story. To have a home that is completely complete, everything has to work together.”

The material that sets the tone for much of the home is a circle-sawn reclaimed wood that was used for the ceilings in the vault, as wainscoting on wall surfaces and to create the distinctive horizontal band that wraps the great room at the height of the main level floor. The reclaimed wood complements the circle-sawn timbers (both sourced from Manomin Resawn Timbers, mrtimbers.com) that although cosmetic, create a rhythm in the large space of the vault.

“In a house predominantly focused on wood finishes,” says Graunke, “it’s important to differentiate different stains, colors and species.” So, circle-sawn oak was chosen for the flooring throughout the home, and the kitchen cabinets were made from rustic alder

by Alpine Cabinetry LLC (alpinecabinetry. com), and topped with a light-colored Silestone called honed-coral clay.

“We love using mixed materials and textures like wood and metals together to create deep and interesting stories,” says Graunke.

In Paul and Christie’s kitchen, that shows up in the island which contrasts the cabinets with white-oak shiplap. The top of the island is a granite species called honed Amarone sourced from Capital Granite and Marble (capitalgranite.com), which also shows up on the bar in the lower level rec room.

One other notable aspect of the kitchen is the custom built metal stove hood by Jeff Kreitz of Creative Steel Work Inc. (creativesteelworkinc. com), who also created the railings throughout the home as well as the metal

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“it’s amazing that it turned out the way it did and then functions the way it does. This is our dream home, our retirement home, and it’ll stay in our family forever.”

- homeowner

CouLDn’t have done it without: Wes Hanson Builders Inc

Alpine Cabinetry Always Clean

details used on the mantel. Stonework for the fireplace, exterior accents, and an outdoor pizza oven was done by Distinguished Stone & Masonry.

The Icing on the Cake What would a hunting lodge be without a few trophies? In this home, architectural design worked hand-in-hand with interior design to provide a canvas for the couple’s many mounts — the tangible results of many successful hunting forays.

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Brainerd Glass Overall, Graunke attempted to achieve a timeless feeling to the interior. “It seems like it could have been here for 25 years, and like it will be here 25 years from now,” she says.

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The reclaimed wood encircling the great room, not only serves as a horizontal motif to balance a very vertical room, it creates a space fitted to hanging the mounts Paul and Christie collect. Over the mantel is an obvious choice for a prized mount, while the gable across the home, facing the fireplace also offered valuable space.

“First and foremost, we took an inventory with photos and dimensions,” says Graunke.

“Our design intention was to come up with a tasteful way to showcase each of these prized possessions.” Each was carefully placed to create space and balance, with room to add as future adventures supply.

“Somebody asked me a few weeks ago if I would change anything if I did it again,” says Paul. “To be honest, I couldn’t come up with anything. From the vision two years ago to where we are today, it’s amazing that it turned out the way it did and then functions the way it does. This is our dream home, our retirement home, and it’ll stay in our family forever.” ~L&H

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F

FEATURE HOME

T

he first thing you notice about the outside of this lovely home on Lake Ida is the stonework.

“From the stone columns at the entryway, to the large boulder landscaping that winds around to the lake side, encircling the home and the firepit, this is a bold and natural look,” says custom home builder Jon Haabala, owner of Haabala Construction in Alexandria. “Even the steps leading down to the lake are poured concrete that blend into the property’s natural setting and framework.”

A vision for that natural look on this sloping lot led homeowners Doug and Janeen Peterson to Matt Kelly at Creative Environments Landscaping in Alexandria.

“Right from the beginning, we worked with Jon Haabala and the Petersons to put together a plan that would take into account not only the structural and aesthetic aspects of the home, but also the county guidelines for the lot and the lake,” says Kelly, whose business specializes in unique natural stonework and extensive lakeside projects. “Our plan included the boulders already in place to provide a stable and attractive option. Once the plants mature, it will also soften the walls, further complementing the beauty of this home and the setting.”

This non-standard lot opened up some opportunities for Dustin Tomoson, principal in charge at Ringdahl Architects in Alexandria.

The Petersons chose him to listen to their ideas and design their perfect home on this distinctive lot.

“With the unique rolling contours that go off to the side, we were able to create something different from a standard walkout,” Tomoson explains. “On the north side, they have some non-usable land that provides a buffer, plus a natural draw that runs through there. It created some challenges, but made it more interesting at the same time.”

“From the stone columns at the entryway, to the large boulder landscaping that winds around to the lake side, encircling the home and the firepit, this is a bold and natural look,” Jon Haabala | Haabala Construction

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This couple came in with a lot of specific ideas, but he says, “I would rather have clients bring 150 things to me, and then let us help them create the kind of solution that will make them happy and meet their needs.”

When the Petersons initially went to Ringdahl Architects, they were looking for help with a design to update and remodel the existing cabin they had owned since 2014. They ended up with two sets of plans – one for a remodel and one for a new build.

“We had already put some time and effort into updating the cabin as we spent several years living in the Twin Cities and coming up here for weekends,” Doug explains. “When we made the decision to move up here full time, we had to take a long, hard look at the space limitations, along with the overall cost. We finally realized we would be giving up more and spending more. It became clear that it was no longer cost effective.”

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Doug’s younger brother moves homes professionally, so they made the choice to remove the smaller cabin from the lot, relocate it to another lake farther north, and help it become someone else’s cabin.

When they started thinking about a new home, they made sure both the exterior and interior design reflected their personal tastes and mindsets.

“We were predominantly feeding the architect images of farmhouse and craftsman style,” says Janeen. “We wanted it to be ‘cabinny,’ but more of a boathouse or nautical style,

rather than ‘up north.’ Although I like modern, I knew we wouldn’t be going with that for our lake home. Working with Dustin, we were able to build in some of the modern aspects that I wanted – like the shiplap (horizontally mounted planks) that gives the house some of the simple, clean lines that I prefer.”

Going on the internet and utilizing the Houzz app, which she called “amazing,” Janeen jokes that if it hadn’t been for Dustin, Jon and Doug, she might have shiplapped the entire house.

“Working with Dustin, we were able to build in some of the modern aspects that I wanted – like the shiplap that gives the house some of the simple, clean lines that I prefer.”

Janeen Peterson | Homeowner

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On a more serious side, she says that with every decision they made, they asked themselves: “Does this design have longevity, and will it stand the test of time?”

Haabala recalls that working with the Petersons was a true collaboration and an effective partnership. One of the reasons they chose him as their builder related to their initial interview with him.

“We knew he had a reputation in the area for quality work, and then when he showed up on our property to discuss his ideas, he brought along several of his subs on the walk-through,” says Doug. “We were able to get a broader idea of how things would be handled at every level.”

With the challenging lot and the specific visions of the homeowners, Haabala says they worked together to decide how each of those visions could be executed. One example is the floor-to-ceiling fireplace that was built by Bitzan-Ohren Masonry of Alexandria.

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“We had gone back and forth with options for the width and height, and we finally settled on crafting it all in stone from floor to ceiling,” says Doug. “It provides drama and a stunning look to the openness of the entire living area.”

For most of the house, Janeen says they went with neutral light colors, along with the black windows and the wood barn doors.

“I just like the look and feel of a barn door,” she says. “You wouldn’t put them in an area where you want to keep out the sound, but it works well and looks good as a door cover.”

The design of the stair and deck railings ties in with their desired nautical look.

“On the inside, we decided to use a braided cable rail with white posts and knotty alder caps to match the island cabinet and the barn door,” she says. “Then we used shiplap down the stairway – of course.”

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rain head and the free-standing tub. With each of the homeowners’ requests, we were able to work together to help figure out how to bring their ideas to reality.”

Those ideas included a kitchen with an open concept and industrialsized appliances. They chose them from Warner-Stellian with the thought that they would not only be large and functional, but also easy to clean and maintain.

That thinking also applied to the fireplace. Although Janeen actually wanted a wood-burning unit, the “next best thing” was a gas fireplace that was open, with no glass, which they purchased from Ellingson Plumbing, Heating, A/C & Electrical in Alexandria.

The railing on the outside deck is the same design, but with a different outdoor style of black with the braided wire that provides beauty, without obstructing a view of the lake.

Haabala points out other feature components to the house, including the high dormers that were designed as windows to bring in additional light.

“Then in the kitchen, combining shiplap with the high beams, is a great combination that works extremely well,” he says. “Another design idea that was really fun was the open glass master shower with the 116 Lake & Home Magazine JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2021

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Doug admits they had to make a lot of tough choices, but they applied a level of practicality to all those choices.

“Besides the kitchen and the fireplace, the siding, the decking, the railing – those are all low maintenance,” he says. “We didn’t want to be spending all our time at the lake working on the house.”

That time spent on Lake Ida is extremely important to them. Known for its clear water, sandy beaches and good fishing, the lake’s activities keep them busy and active. Their small bay on this large lake is quiet during the week, but can become a hub of activity on summer weekends.

Since moving full-time to the lake, they’ve traded in

the fishing boat for a pontoon and a Jet Ski, which works well for taking their 12-year-old daughter water skiing.

The Petersons spent a great deal of time thinking about and designing this “forever home” before they implemented their plans. All the indoor and outdoor spaces were designed for their lifestyle, and Doug says they’ve maximized every impervious square foot of space.

Janeen adds that when they began thinking about building a house, they searched sites endlessly and took advantage of the Houzz app, but also found themselves looking anywhere and everywhere to find the style they both desired.

“One night, while watching the 1954 classic Bing Crosby movie, ‘White Christmas,’ we noticed that the traditional look of the lodge in that movie felt very familiar and similar to what we liked. We realized that it had a great deal of shiplap with black trim that gave it a more nautical, East Coast look. It was definitely a solid confirmation that all the decisions we were making were, indeed, timeless.” ~L&H

CouLDn’t have done it without: Haabala Construction

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F

FEATURE HOME

W

hen a family decides it wants a lake home, it can be difficult to know where to begin. Minnesota has 11,842 lakes to choose from and no shortage of talented architects and builders. With lots of options to choose from, it’s smart to start with what you know you want and to work out from there. One referral or idea leads to another and suddenly, a plan takes shape.

That’s exactly how the process worked for this couple. They live in the Twin Cities with their two teenagers. Like most modern families, they’re busy with work and other commitments during the day and the kids’ activities after school and during the weekends. (That was three years ago, well before the COVID-19 pandemic changed everything.) They wanted to invest in a space that would serve

as an escape. And they weren’t willing to drive all day to get there.

“We didn’t want to be too far away, around two hours from The Cities,” the homeowner explains. “We were also looking for a larger lake with development opportunities that had similarly situated lake homes.”

The family found what they were looking for on Cedar Lake. It offers seclusion, mature trees and picturesque views. They wanted to create an intimate home that would feel homey and welcoming all year long.

“We didn’t want a large second home,” he says. “We wanted it to feel like a cottage that was a little more quaint.”

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“We didn’t want a large second home. We wanted it to feel like a cottage that was a little more quaint.”

- homeowner

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The couple knew they wanted to work with a northern Minnesota builder. Their realtor recommended Baratto Brothers Construction of Crosslake. One particular cabin that Baratto Brothers had built in the past served as the starting point for the cottage that architect Kevin Yeager designed for the family.

“When we went to Baratto Brothers, we were looking through books of different cabins that they’d built to get some ideas,” the homeowner explains. “We modeled our lake home after one that Baratto Brothers had previously built. We did a similar exterior look and used ideas from the interior as well.”

The exterior and interior of the cottage repeat several key elements for a soothing, consistent effect. An emphasis on natural materials and serene color combinations continues both inside and outside the home.

Straight-edge Shakertown cedar panels quietly evoke the trees that surround the cottage. The Baratto Brothers Construction crew scraped pine beams to give them a weathered, timeworn appeal and tucked them up in the gables. The gentle curves of the beams, which are topped by a three-pronged accent piece, serve as a subdued exclamation point. This house doesn’t scream for attention, it whispers.

Dappled gray and brown shingles mimic the stone trim and chimney. The home perches above the water, so a rustic stone staircase ushers the family and their guests down to the lake. The steps are just one of the exterior accents installed

by Landscape Etc., in Pequot Lakes, which also created a subtle stone paver patio for resting and dining with a view of the lake.

The rough cedar trim is painted a calming white to match the home’s Marvin windows. A bank of these windows stretches along the lakefront side, maximizing water views.

“When we went to Baratto Brothers, we were looking through books of different cabins that they’d built to get some ideas.”

- homeowner

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While the lake side emphasizes windows, the view from the driveway showcases the home’s cottage appeal. The consistent use of wood, stone and minimalistic neutrals gives the home on Cedar Lake its own unique look that blurs the line between design styles.

“I would say it’s a mixture between Cape Cod and rustic,” says Ben Baratto, president of Baratto Brothers Construction. “It’s got some very rustic beams and accents in it, but then it’s got some very clean shakes and whites and the colors you see in a Cape Cod. It’s a very clean look when you mix in those white tones, a very classic look. And then inside, there’s some rustic metal accents and some rustic beam work as well, with some reclaimed wood.”

The key elements the couple responded to in those initial photographs — the wood floors, the wood and metal stairs and railings, stone fireplaces and distinctive beam work — all remained. But there were several adjustments required to customize the home into a yearround retreat for this specific family.

“The vision never changed,” the homeowner says. “Although we had to adjust, as our home was smaller than the cabin we were modeling. So design features changed with the reduced footprint.”

It’s common for homeowners to need to see the changes and updates in the space, rather than in two dimensions. That’s especially true when homeowners are undergoing their first building project. In that case, a hands-on, collaborative method that works through solutions in steps can be more effective.

That’s how this design process proceeded.

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“I would say it’s a mixture between Cape Cod and rustic. It’s got some very rustic beams and accents in it, but then it’s got some very clean shakes and whites and the colors you see in a Cape Cod.”

- ben baratto // baratto brothers

“It was kind of a continuous process of getting the house they wanted,” says Baratto. “Just continual working with the client and meeting their expectations as the spaces came into fruition.”

The result was a home with three bedrooms and 3-and-a-half baths that uses its 3,000-square-foot floor plan efficiently. The entryway provides easy access to the laundry room, one-and-a-half baths, the master bedroom and an elegant kitchen with a stone backsplash and creamy cabinets from Ivy Woodcraft Inc., in Merrifield that exudes a subtle French country vibe. The main level also holds two of the home’s most used gathering spaces, the great room and the sunroom.

Both rooms feature dramatic fireplaces made by the same blend of stone that graces the exterior. The calming mixture, which includes Fairmont Ashlar and Ledge, as well as Essex and Dover stone, serves as one of the home’s design signatures. It’s also inspired several other homeowners to use the mixture in their own homes. It was sourced from Hedberg Supply, Landscape and Masonry, which has locations in Plymouth, Farmington and Stillwater.

The beam work glimpsed on the cottage exterior repeats in the great room for quite a dramatic effect. These rustic beams are also visible from a multifunctional game room on the second story that sees a lot of use. With teenagers in the house, a steady stream of friends and family visiting (in normal, nonCOVID years, at least), and a desire to use the cottage all year long, the family wanted this room to be flexible and available for use in all seasons.

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“Our family uses this lake home year-round, although it’s not our primary residence,” says the homeowner. “In the summer it’s all about the lake — boating, Jet Ski, paddleboard, fishing, etc. We like toys: the boat, the Jet Skis, all the fun lake toys. And then in the winter we have snowmobiles, cross country skis, snowshoes, ice fishing.”

The family knew they’d need spaces that would keep people occupied in inclement weather. The second-floor game room gives them a space to gather indoors and also provides a place to rest, read or relax, either alone or with a group.

“There’s a TV there, so the kids can do the Xbox and that kind of thing there,” the homeowner says. “It’s a default multipurpose room.”

The metal cable railing system visible from the game room adds a streamlined touch that contrasts with the rough wood of the beams and posts. All of these elements combine to counter the lightness of the high-ceilinged great room below.

“I think it adds some heaviness in the otherwise open spaces,” says Baratto. “The railing and the beam work really make that area pop. Even though they’re not structural, when you see these large turnbuckles and metal accents, it really feels like it’s holding the house together. They tried to keep it as clean as possible. But when you see those beams, the metal, the reclaimed wood, it gives it some uniqueness.”

One of the cottage’s most unique elements is another room that sees a lot of use, especially on rainy or snowy days when outdoor recreation is off the menu. The space over the garage was reimagined as a movie theater, complete with comfortable reclining seats, a bar and tables.

The audio-visual system was installed by Ryan Boesen, owner of Safe & Sound Home Systems Inc., out of Brooklyn Park. Boesen installed the Sonos sound system so the family can listen to music from room 128 Lake & Home Magazine JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2021

to room, as well as outside on the patio. He also created other functional solutions, including mounting the great room television on the stone fireplace using a movable arm so the family could pull it down as needed.

So many touches in this cottage are both aesthetically pleasing and fully functional. For example, the upstairs bunkroom’s reclaimed wood walls are visually striking. But they’re practical (and space saving) too.

CouLDn’t have done it without: Baratto Brothers

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“They’re actually larger bunks with queens on the bottom,” explains the homeowner. “The tops are full — a little bigger bed, a little more space.”

Kevin Yeager

More space was important for washing up as well. The family wanted a bathroom on the main level that was easily accessible from outside, so there would always be a convenient place to change or rinse off after swimming or engaging in outdoor pursuits. They made sure there were two more showers in the house, so the family and their guests wouldn’t need to wait in line.

Expert Insulation

The family’s building project began when they purchased the lot on Cedar Lake three years ago. After a fruitful construction season, the broad strokes are completed, and they’ve settled in to ponder the little details. An outdoor fireplace and grill are coming along now.

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And they’re enjoying the process of choosing some of the home décor accents now that they have a little more time to ponder what they want and what the house needs.

As with all building projects (and all homes, no matter their age), the cottage on Cedar Lake is a work in progress. It’s also a well-used and well-loved second residence and lakeside retreat that will welcome this family and their guests in every season for years to come. ~L&H

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LAKE GIFTS

CREATIVE TOUCH BOUTIQUE 320-762-8786 | 516 Broadway St, Alexandria, MN

We are a boutique store in downtown Alexandria, which carries home décor, gifts, and clothing. We specialize in women’s clothing with an emphasis on being cute, comfortable, and affordable.

One whole section of the store is devoted to Minnesota clothing.

Here you’ll find T-shirts, sweatshirts and hats for both men and women. Also included in this section are gift items and home décor with a lake theme, which includes personalized lake signs, lake map jar candles, cribbage boards, beer glasses, and coffee mugs. You will also find hundreds of signs with many featuring lake sayings. Follow us on both Facebook and Instagram. The store is open year-round, seven days a week, right in the middle of the bustling downtown Alexandria shopping district!

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SHOPPING

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LAKE GIF

MAINSTREAM BOUTIQUE 833 Washington Ave | Detroit Lakes, MN 218-844-4990 Hours: M-F 10-5 | Sat 10-4 | Sun Closed

Established in 2014 as a women’s boutique, we strive to empower and encourage women to embrace their inner beauty. We believe and educate on the power of self-esteem and help women find styles that flatter their shape and fit their lifestyle.

With new fashion arriving daily we know that women want to see fresh styles both online and in the store. Mainstream works with vendors who are exclusive to our stores. We pride ourselves on finding apparel markets that are as unique as the women we serve. We cover sizes xsm-xlg in an affordable price range.

Mainstream Boutique carries fashion from casual lake wear to a fun evening out. Customers also love to shop our shoes, scarves, purses, greeting cards, gifts and jewelry including the popular Brighton line of jewelry. We sell online through our Facebook page of Mainstream Boutique-Detroit Lakes and on Instagram mainstreamdetroitlakes.

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LAKE & HOME MAGAZINE

WWW.NOTTINGHILLDESIGNS.US

126 S Vine | Fergus Falls, MN artwork@lakeandhomemagazine.com www.lakeandhomemagazine.com

Notting Hill Designs

Subscriptions Purchase your own subscription, renewal or gift subscription of Lake & Home Magazine directly from our website (shown above). Find inspiration and ideas for interior design, building, landscaping and more!

Framed Photos Send us your favorite lake photos or family memories - and we’ll print a poster-sized version for your home. We can even provide a frame for your art! Send your artwork and information to artwork@lakeandhomemagazine, and we’ll be happy to provide you with pricing for your custom project.

a Great Gift for...

Our love for the water goes back many generations. Whether the lake, river or ocean, our family has always been drawn to activities on the water. Notting Hill Designs is a father and son business we started after creating a wood map for a family member. We saw a need for quality wood map designs that were also reasonably priced. We love working with wood and creating unique, quality designs with laser cutting/engraving machines. Our goal is to provide our clients with a quality, personalized design they will treasure in their homes forever. Nothing makes us more proud than to hear from a satisfied customer who absolutely loves their design.

We can make any lake, river, or coastline into a beautiful, personalized wood map. Special touches such as adding personalization like a family name, a home location, or a particular detail make the map personal to you. Many of our clients give the maps as gifts for housewarmings, thank you gifts, birthdays, and even fifth anniversaries. Prices range from $97-$189. Let us create a special keepsake for your home!

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DOT & MINNIE’S AND LEVEL III

OTTER COFFEE AND ICE CREAM

dotandminnies.com | leveliiiboutique.com 148 1st Ave S | Perham, MN 56573 | 218-346-4180

117 E Main St, Vergas, MN 56587 218-342-4702 | www.ottercoffeevergas Jan/Feb Hours: Wed-Sun 8am - 1pm

Dot & Minnie’s is a true boutique—a collection of unique clothing lines you’d be hard-pressed to find together anywhere else, but will find in downtown Perham! What you will find is a wide range of classic styles, from reserved to edgy... and the funky jewelry to go with them!

Not quite your style? Try our sister store across the street, Level iii.

There we stock trendy styles in an industrial setting. Whatever your style, we have something for you!

Most of our styles are available for purchase from our extensive websites, dotandminnies.com and leveliiiboutique.com. Shop by type of item or by brand; have it shipped, or held for pickup! Need additional information on an item? Email or call and you’ll have your answer within 24 hours—we try on more for customers than for ourselves!

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Otter Coffee Vergas is more than a coffee shop—it is an Otter Tail County experience! Enjoy several products from throughout Otter Tail County. Fresh Stumbeano’s coffee, scones, and muffins are featured. Honey, raspberry syrup, maple syrup, and wild rice are instore staples. Fresh Bread Fridays from Falls Baking Company are a great time to try out delicious local jellies. You can treat yourself to ice cream, milk shakes, and smoothies. When it’s time to relax, join us on our private patio for a glass of wine and charcuterie tray.

Browse the local art and jewelry. Need a hostess gift? Everyone loves a taste of Otter Tail! Gift baskets and coffee are all available online and can be shipped. Dogs are welcome and “puppachinos” are our specialty! Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for up-to-date activities and specials. Otter Coffee has the “Best Milk Shakes” in Otter Tail county! We ship custom gift baskets- let us help you with holiday shopping!

Take out/curbside delivery available, call ahead 218-342-4702 NEW Otter Coffee Candles Made in Vergas!

Lite Coffee/Vanilla Scent NEW Spiked Cold Brew Add to your coffee or sip over ice while reading your favorite book.

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SHOPPING

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SHOPPING

NINE18 WOODWORKS

MITRED CORNERS

john@nine18woodworks.com 701-213-8863 | www.nine18woodworks.com John Campbell - Chief Sawdust Maker

409 W Stanton Ave | Fergus Falls, MN 218-998-4147 Open Tuesday - Friday 10-6 and Saturday 9-12

Facebook: @nine18woodworks Instagram: @nine18_woodworks Your space is like no other space. Your home, your office, your business is unique. It’s special. For your space, we think you deserve to have something that is 100% original, built by professionals who can quickly understand you, your space, and your vision then give you a custom piece you’ll love.

NINE18 Woodworks is a custom furniture maker and woodshop located in Fergus Falls, Minn. We are designers and builders of custom wood furniture, cutting boards and other unique builds.

We want to help you make your furniture or wood project ideas come to life. Contact us today with your project ideas!

Beyond The Mitred Corners has added Fusion Mineral Paint for your shopping experience. Fusion Mineral Paint can be used for every project from cabinets to dining room tables to dressers. The possibilities are endless for its use.

• Easy Application • Built in Top Coat • Won’t Fade or Crack • 100% Acrylic • Exceptional Adhesion and Durability • Zero VOC A little off the beaten path but well worth the trip. Open the door to a shop with beautiful quality merchandise and a few surprises.

You will be sure to find just the right piece for every room in the house. You can even have that perfect picture framed with personal service. Mitred Corners, Fergus Falls-the shop you will be glad you stopped.

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space. This access can also be relatively shallow during low water periods. Launching of large boats at this site can be challenging.

FEATURED LAKE

Primary fish management is directed at walleye and Lake Ida has long supported a robust fishery.

Walleye abundance has declined in recent years due to poor survival of young fish.

Lake Ida supports both largemouth and smallmouth bass populations. Largemouth bass are abundant and anglers can expect good fishing success. Smallmouth bass numbers have increased in recent years. This population has typically been less abundant than largemouth bass, but average size of smallmouth bass is larger than that of largemouth bass.

Source: Minnesota Department of Natural Resources

Lake Ida is a moderately fertile basin located northwest of Alexandria. Lake Ida lies within the Long Prairie River watershed and is connected to Lake Miltona to the north and Lake Charley to the south via non-navigable channels.

Northern pike catches have moderated from that of past surveys. Currently, catch rates are typical of what is expected for this type of lake. Pike exceeding 30.0 inches are present but smaller, slow growing “hammer-handle� pike dominated the pike captures in 2019. An occasional muskellunge has been captured during previous surveys. This trophy gamefish is not stocked into Lake Ida, thus abundance is low. Presence of this species in Lake Ida is likely a result of downstream emigration from Lake Miltona.

Water quality and clarity are very good. Average water clarity measurements have increased to exceed 15 feet during summer months following infestation of zebra mussels in 2013.

Harvest of smaller pike from Lake Ida is highly encouraged to help keep this population in check.

Lower numbers of hammer-handle northern pike should also improve survival of young walleye.

Size: 4,431 Acres Max Depth: 106 ft.

Clarity: 11.1 ft.

Shore Length: 22.4 mi

Lake Ida supports a complex fish community due to good water quality and exceptional habitat diversity such as shallow bays, rock bars, abundant mid-lake structure, and vast areas of emergent and submergent vegetation. This lake is a popu-

lar destination for both anglers and recreational boaters. Recreational pressure can be heavy, especially on weekend days during summer months. Three lake access sites are available for public use. Two on the east side and one on the north. The north access has limited parking

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Recreational users should take necessary precautions to prevent further spread of invasive species. Drain all water and remove all aquatic vegetation from your boat and trailer when leaving any body of water. ~L&H

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