Stressless® Laurel D200 Low Back with Arms / Calido Light Beige / Oak
16 TRAVEL
42 SHOWCASE
Sybil Lake, three miles east of Vergas, is a special place on the map for the Soland family, whose ties to lake country run deep. Enjoy the tour of Sybil Haus in the Minnesota woods, a peaceful and memorable vacation rental, perfect for large or multiple families.
DEPARTMENTS
10 GARDEN
There is a particular beauty about prairie grass bending under its own weight with the waves of wind passing through. It is peaceful and innate. Plant native grasses in your yard to foster a bit of prairie and enjoy their beauty and vital purpose year-round.
Join us as we travel to the Siuslaw National Forest in Oregon. You’ll experience the mysterious and lush beauty of this rainforest in search of amazing fungi. Through the mushrooms we see nature more clearly – a complex window connecting nature and humans.
22 ELEMENTS
Sometimes, an overlooked aspect of great design is the staircase. Adding thoughtful design elements to your stairway plans can be a powerful way to enhance the design of your home. Ascend and descend in functional and creative beauty!
32 DESIGN
Kitchen alcoves are experiencing a lovely resurgence, especially range alcoves. Read All in for Alcoves to discover how this charming niche can enhance both the beauty and functionality of your culinary spaces. They play a central role in any kitchen.
52 CUISINE
Mankind has been gathering friends and family around a fire since the beginning of time. Chef Granville Wood, with famous chef and international author, Nevada Berg, keeps the art of open-fire cooking alive, following the traditional and ancient Viking way.
60 INGREDIENTS
Food and coffee are central to the Swedish fika. It represents tradition both as a social engagement to strengthen bonds and relationships, as well as an integral part of Swedish culture. Discover a traditional and delicious way to celebrate the special art of fika.
Fall is a season I cherish. Nature has painted her canvas with a fresh palette of extraordinary colors, a sign she leaves us as the earth begins to prepare for its winter rest. Although nature slows down, activity in our area is accelerating, from the completion of construction projects to the start of the new school year. Our lives become more scheduled and just a bit more hectic.
Autumn also signals another special agenda – a comfortable migration indoors for a new season of holidays and special gatherings with family and friends. In our Fall issue, we celebrate new foods as our garden bounties find their delicious way into a hearty fall soup on a chilly day. Fresh, crisp apples become part of a luscious pie, or as you will read in our Ingredients section, celebrating Fika with traditional Swedish Apelsinsittar is a must.
We are also excited to share this Inspired Home issue with you as we explore topics from the allure of charming kitchen alcoves and the stunning fall beauty of native grasses to the grandeur of a staircase and the art of ancient Viking fire-style cooking. Then we’ll travel to Oregon, where you will experience the grandeur and beauty of the Oregon rainforests as we explore breathtaking trails in pursuit of beautiful and essential, mysterious mushrooms.
It’s all here! As always, take a little break, grab a cup of freshly brewed coffee and enjoy the Inspired Home Fall Issue!
Happy Fall!
Terri Ferragut Associate Publisher Editorial Director
Every issue, we take great pride in presenting this beautiful local home and lifestyle guide we call Inspired Home. From design to great food our goal is to provide you with relevant information you value. Truth of the matter is, without the heart and dedication of this talented and professional team, this publication would not be possible. Issue after issue, their creativity brings Inspired Home to your doorstep or area business. They inspire me.
JILL OCKHARDT BLAUFUSS
Jill Ockhardt Blaufuss is a photographer for architecture and interior design. Her clients range from designers and builders, both commercial and residential. When she's not working she enjoys spending time with her family and friends, cooking, traveling and entertaining.
LAUREN F. CARLSON
After spending eight years in Upstate New York at Cornell University researching hemp and willow for bioenergy, Carlson, her husband and daughter moved back to Fargo, North Dakota, where they were born and raised. She is currently employed by the USDA in sunflower improvement research. She loves hiking with her family, knitting, running, cross-stitching and Scandinavian baking.
SARAH OLSON
A career in the interior design world, along with a genuine passion for connection, led Sarah here to Inspired Home magazine. She loves date nights (or days) with her husband, walks with her dog, nature photography and time with her sweet and comical cats – always entertaining! She also enjoys listening to podcasts, reading, yoga/ Pilates, antiquing, traveling, watching a captivating television show, and a good citrusy IPA.
ASHLEY F. JOHNSON
Ashley Johnson loves her home city of Fargo. She works as a registered nurse at Sanford Medical Center and shares her happy home with her husband, two teenage children and a rescue cat. She loves traveling with her family, cooking, entertaining and good wine. She can’t wait to show her children the world.
KINSEY WALLACE
Kinsey is a seasoned real estate photographer and agent with over 5 years of experience in capturing properties and helping clients find their dream homes. Kinsey also serves as the exclusive sales representative and designer for Red Leaf Custom Homes. An avid DIY enthusiast, she often spends her free time working on home improvement projects. She loves exploring new destinations, traveling to unique places and enjoys the great outdoors through gardening and camping.
GRANVILLE WOOD
Wood is an international chef who worked in London, Stockholm, Toronto, Vancouver, Palm Beach and Houston before moving to Fargo with wife Susie, a doctor with Sanford Health. Most recently he operated The Blue Goose Café in the Plains Art Museum.
PrairieNativeGrasses, precious
assets year-round
Because of its unpretentious appearance, it is easy to forget its importance.
BY LAUREN FERRAGUT CARLSON
rowing up in North Dakota, I was raised to notice the quiet and humble things my state offers: the vast expanse of space, the subtle change in light as the seasons change, and the wind winding through our native grasses. North Dakota, rich in natural beauty and color, still claims its prairie, although the original native prairie now exists only in small parts of the state. Less than one-tenth of one percent of all tallgrass prairie remains in North Dakota. The Sheyenne National Grassland, located along the Sheyenne River in Ransom and western Richland counties, is a protected ecosystem available for us to enjoy and conserve. A fall hike through this area would be a rewarding experience for your entire family.
A breathtaking view of North Dakota prairie grasslands. Photography by Rick Bohn, U.S. Fish and Wildlife.
The tallgrass king of the prairie, Big Bluestem.
Because of its unpretentious appearance, it is easy to forget its importance. The prairie may be thought of as a humble and far less showy rainforest. It supports a tremendous amount of life, including bison, pronghorn sheep, elk, plains grizzlies, wolves, and at one time an innumerable variety of prairie grasses, forbs (herbaceous flowering plants), and insects.
Native prairie once stretched for hundreds of miles across the heartland, vividly covering a quarter of the lower 48 states. Today, threats still threaten our remaining prairie. Large-scale farming and intensive grazing are easy targets for criticism. Still, there are many factors to consider, such as fire suppression, the introduction of new plant species, insecticides, and changes in water flow.
Worldwide prairies, like rainforests, are considered one of the most imperiled habitats. In North Dakota, 80% of our native prairie is gone, with over a 95% loss in the Red River Valley. Most of the remaining prairie lies in the western part of our state, a tragic loss for
wildlife habitat. The loss of prairie grasses and forbs is of great concern, but we lose more than plants. Native grasslands are primary nesting sites for a large number of bird species and are refuge areas for birds during long migratory flights. Many of our prairie bird populations are in decline, including Sprague’s Pipit, which is a candidate under the Endangered Species Act, among others. The western prairiefringed orchid, once abundant in the tall-grass prairies, is now a rare find. Pollinators like the Powershiek Skipperling butterfly, which uses little bluestem and purple coneflower as a nutrient source, are rare and believed to be completely gone.
U.S. Forest Service, Nature Conservancy, North Dakota Game and Fish Department, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and Ducks Unlimited are all at work to conserve and protect North Dakota’s remaining native prairie. The Conservation Reserve Program, enacted in 1987, is a government program that pays farmers to plant grass on marginal land previously plowed for crops. In an initially successful attempt to create grassland, the program has been in decline since 2008, following higher commodity prices.
What can we do? The first step is to become educated on the issue.
Individuals, young and old, can become involved in prairie management in small yet effective ways. Recreating pieces of small prairie land can truly make a difference by planting native grasses and flowers in your yard.
After two to three years of planting even a small tract of space, you’ll help foster “natural order” to attract wildlife. We can all help North Dakota revert to its original grandeur. Joseph Nicollet, a French scientist, explorer and expedition leader through North Dakota in 1839, described the prairie as “perhaps the most beautiful land within the territory of the United States.”
There is a particular beauty about prairie grass bending under its own weight, the speckled spectrum of color that dots the prairies year-round, and the undulating waves of wind through them. It is a peaceful and innate freedom. Plant native grasses in your yard to foster a bit of prairie and enjoy their beauty and vital purpose year-round. It is a testament to our state and our pioneer spirit.
garden
Indiangrass stands tall on the prairie and shows beautiful movement with the wind.
Little Bluestem turns a radiant mahogany-red in fall with white, shiny seed tufts.
Native Prairie Grasses, natural beauty to appreciate
BY TERRI FERRAGUT
MAGINE the dramatic fall season view the first settlers experienced from atop a grassy knoll — the Great Plains in its natural, unbroken state. Within the sea of prairie grass, striking grasses in golds, crimson reds and deep purples surely stood out from the rest. No color photo or painting, no floral arrangement or pressed wildflower, nothing we take from nature can capture the beauty or complexity of nature itself. This fall, drive a short distance east to Glyndon, Minnesota, to Buffalo River State Park and hike through the Bluestem Prairie Scientific and Natural Area (SNA), one of the largest Minnesota prairie reserves. Travel less than an hour to southeast North Dakota to the Sheyenne National Grasslands, a unique tallgrass ecosystem. Visit our prairie grasslands and consider adding these beautiful, tallgrass native grasses to your landscape next spring.
Big Bluestem (Andropogon gerardii), perennial tall grass. The king of the prairie grasses reaches towards the sky and sends deep roots. Its vertical stems stand firmly and sway with a slight breeze. They change to a vibrant shade of maroon red in the fall. Three-pronged seed heads give it its nickname, “turkey foot.” Sunloving, it grows well in medium to moist soil and grows 4 to 8 feet. It attracts birds, pollinators and is deer resistant.
Little Blue Stem (Schizachyrium scoparium), perennial tall grass. A very ornamental bunchgrass, the fine-textured foliage forms dense mounds 18-24 inches tall. Slender blue-green stems reach 3 feet by September and turn radiant mahogany-red with white, shiny seed tufts in the fall, staying colorful through winter. They prefer sun to part shade, are drought tolerant, deer resistant and attract birds, butterflies and pollinators.
Indiangrass (Sorghastrum nutans), perennial tall grass. Easy to spot on the prairie with its yellow/tan plumes and vase shape, this grass loves heavy clay soils, but it will grow in many soil types. It prefers medium to dry soils and grows 3 to 8 feet high, with mature plants reaching a five-foot wide clump. This striking grass in fall turns a deep golden-bronze. Deer resistant and drought tolerant, it attracts birds, butterflies and loves tall companions for support.
Switchgrass (Panicum virgatum), perennial tall grass. Airy seed heads and upright habit make a beautiful statement in your landscape. Adding structure, texture and movement, they grow 4 to 8 feet in clumping patterns. Fall colors range from red, goldenyellow to blue foliage with purple seed heads, depending on variety. It prefers sun to part-shade and dry to moist soils. Deer resistant, it attracts songbirds, butterflies and bees.
The airy heads and upright habit of Switchgrass make a beautiful statement in any garden all year long.
Sideoats Grama is a perennial short grass with delicate flowers that hang uniformly from one side of the stem.
Sideoats Grama (Bouteloua curtipendula), perennial short grass. This prairie grass forms a good-sized clump around 2.5 feet high with attractive bluish foliage that changes to apricotgold color in the fall. During summer bloom, bracts hang uniformly from one side of the stem while brilliant red-purple anthers dangle below and delicate white stigmas protrude above. It is a favorite butterfly food source.
Prairie Dropseed (Sporobolus heterolepis), perennial short-medium grass. This tall native is a mounding grass that adds elegance to any landscape. The bright green fountain appearance is well defined and creates stunning borders when planted 18 to 24 inches apart. Sun-loving, it prefers medium to dry soil. A beautiful rusty-golden yellow in fall, this grass is deer resistant, attracts birds and is drought resistant.
In the fall, Prairie Dropseed becomes a fountain of deep, rusty-brown colors that adds stunning interest to your garden.
BY TERRI FERRAGUT | PHOTOGRAPHY
Why write a story about mushrooms? We love eating them, but beyond their taste and natural beauty, mushrooms are more mysterious and powerful than you might think. Seen as both life-giving and deadly, mushrooms evoke emotions of wonder and fear. They grow wild in urban areas, from cracks in pavement and woodchip piles to lush forests. Fungi make up an entire kingdom of life on Earth. Through them, we can see nature more clearly — a complex window into biology and the connection between nature and humans. Travel with Inspired Home to the Oregon Siuslaw National Park, as we explore the mystery, beauty, and importance of fungi and the rainforests they thrive in.
BY GABRIEL FERRAGUT
Armillaria ostoyae, mildly toxic
Gemmed gemmata, toxic
Russula fragilis, toxic
Lactarious camphoratus, edible
FORAGING #1 TIP
Foraging is rewarding and great fun, but for every edible there is an evil twin. Never assume. Always be certain of your identification.
BASIC FACTS OF MUSHROOM ANATOMY
A mushroom’s anatomy consists of the top cap, represented in different structures and shapes, supported by a stem. What you see on the ground is the fruit – the tip of the iceberg. Underneath the cap, the mushroom has gills that hold spores for reproduction. Connected to the stem base is a large network of filaments (hyphae), which form a vast network called mycelium, the vegetative part of the root system that branches out underground. Mycelium creates new fruiting bodies when conditions are mostly dark and moist, with the moderate temperatures of spring and fall.
NATURE’S GREAT DECOMPOSER
This complex network of mycelium breaks down organic and inorganic matter, returning nutrients to the soil and allowing new plant life to thrive. It facilitates an efficient symbiotic exchange of nutrients, and in return, plants and trees send back carbon-rich sugars captured during photosynthesis. The mycelium returns nutrients like phosphorus and nitrogen from the soil to the trees (a process that trees and plants cannot do on their own). Over 90% of plant species have mutually beneficial relationships with fungi. Human civilization would not be able to thrive without the work of this decomposer.
AUTUMN IN OREGON – AN ABUNDANT MUSHROOM SEASON
A 17th-century mycelial network still thrives in the Blue Mountains of northeastern Oregon. Covering 2,384 acres, it is estimated to be 2,400 years old. Today, the state of Oregon, with its diverse ecosystems and abundant rainfall, is widely recognized for foraging its culinary mushrooms. Chanterelles, porcini, truffles, and morels are favorites among foragers. The Oregon Coast, Coast Range, and Cascade Mountains, including rainforests around Portland, the Willamette Valley, and Southern Oregon, are top spots for fall mushroom hunting. The Tillamook and Siuslaw National Forests are highly regarded for mushroom diversity, making Oregon a destination for mushroom hunters of all ages.
Gabe Ferragut, wife Lexie and their Aussie, Sigrid, enjoy the beauty and diversity of the Pacific Northwest. From hiking and mushroom hunting to trout fishing on the McKenzie River, life is always an adventure.
Hypholoma fasciculare, sulphur tuft This poisonous fungus grows in clumps on rotting tree trunks.
Xularia hypoxylon, candlesnuff
Although edible, the tough texture is hard to eat.
Kuehneromyces mutabilis, sheathed wood tufts Edible, it is prized for its mild, nutty and slightly sweet flavor.
As nature’s carnivorous decomposers, they consume larvae, worms and other snails.
Rainforests in Oregon not only foster the unique beauty of mushrooms, but are a part of the largest temperate rainforest, which stretches along the coast from Alaska to Northern California. Ancient Sitka spruces and Western red cedars are part of the awe-inspiring canopy. Some, over 1,000 years old, grow to impressive heights in a breathtaking spectrum of deep greens intermingled with vibrant hues of moss and ferns. When combined with high moisture and frequent fog, an ethereal, almost otherworldly ambiance is created. From snow-capped volcanoes and sandy dunes to foraging for a diverse array of fungi in a serene rainforest, you will experience enchantment in the Pacific Northwest.
Cantharellus formosus, Pacific golden chanterelle Chanterelles are a prominent edible and a delicious species found in the Pacific Northwest.
In the classic movie, Gone with the Wind, Scarlet O’Hara’s dramatic descent down the spiral staircase of the antebellum mansion was proof of the impact a staircase can have. Sometimes, an overlooked aspect of great design is the staircase. But why? Staircases can spark conversations and impress with creativity, so why are they often ignored? More than moving between floors, they are an essential part of architecture that can influence aesthetic appeal and overall design. They provide a valuable opportunity to break away from the expected and create a memorable architectural element in your home.
Often, they are designed to be more practical than beautiful. They are an essential part of any home, blending seamlessly into the interior design of the living space. Adding thoughtful design elements to your stairway can be a powerful way to enhance any home’s design story. From painted risers and two-tone stairs to custom railings and floating treads, your staircase can make a bold statement. Staircases have the potential to “ascend” from being purely functional to becoming a thoughtfully designed focal point. Here are a few key elements that contribute to the architectural beauty of a staircase.
In this contemporary condominium, the spiral staircase looks sophisticated and is valued for its space-saving design and aesthetic appeal.
The curved staircase, renowned for its graceful elegance, is often positioned at the front of the home to enhance entrance visibility.
Curved staircases, among modern staircase designs, are crafted with a gentle arc to add visual elegance. Known for their graceful appearance, most curved staircases are placed at the front of the home, near the foyer, so they are visible when entering.
Spiral staircases offer a graceful, twisting form, creating a sense of movement and dramatic visual interest. Elegant and space-efficient, they have a central point around which all steps revolve in an upward spiral. They work well in spaces that are limited, such as an urban condominium.
The quarter-turn staircase is popular with homeowners for space-saving and the ability to hug a wall. Its landing can be designed to be placed at one end or in the middle.
This U-shaped or half-turn staircase is dramatic with the large display of windows. The design works well in compact spaces and the landings add safety.
elements
A double grand staircase is not only a striking visual statement, but it also facilitates traffic flow, separates living areas and can be customized with various materials, styles and finishes.
A straight staircase is a linear flight of steps with no change in direction. A common design, using various materials or built-in storage, can create uniqueness.
Architecturally stunning, a cantilevered staircase seems to float by itself, but it depends on strong support by being anchored to a wall on one end.
A winder staircase is most often identified by its triangular steps that allow for a change in direction without a full landing.
Grand staircases look straight out of a movie or fairytale and leave a lasting impression. Often found in foyers, this staircase design features two separate flights of steps that meet in the middle at a central landing. While it isn't compact, its grand appearance is undeniably beautiful.
Half-turn (U-shaped) staircases create a similar visual and spacesaving appeal to that of a curved design. This type can include a switchback landing midway through two flights of stairs going in opposite directions, or built as a winder, in which three steps are used to turn a 90˚ corner.
A Quarter-turn (L-shaped) staircase is a common 90-degree, quarterturn staircase that can be located in the middle or at one end. Slightly more complex than a straight staircase, quarter-turn staircases are popular among homeowners because they save space and can hug exterior walls.
Straight staircases, a common design, are a linear flight of steps with no change in direction. Straight stairs can be created using many types of materials and incorporate other design features, such as built-in storage.
Dual staircases, similar to a grand staircase, are also found at the front of the home, making an impressive design statement. This style does not have a central landing, but instead, the flights start and end separately on both sides.
Floating/cantilevered staircases, lacking visible support beneath the treads, appear to float but rely on a strong supporting structure, such as steel or a wooden stringer. A beautiful, modern minimalist aesthetic is created, adding elegance and a visual airiness to the room.
Winder staircases are similar to L-shaped staircases but without a connecting landing. Instead, they feature triangular steps that allow for a change in direction, which takes less space than having a full landing.
Double helix staircases are a distinctive architectural feature made up of two separate spiral staircases that intertwine around a central core, resembling the structure of a DNA double helix. One is for ascending and the other for descending, allowing the two groups never to cross paths.
A well-designed staircase is crucial in interior design because it acts as a focal point, enhancing the overall aesthetics, and it sets the tone for the entire space. Beyond its functional role of connecting floors, a staircase can make a personalized statement, reflecting the home's style and personality, and even promote efficiency by optimizing space and traffic flow. More than just moving from one level to another, it's an architectural opportunity for a sculptural element that expresses you. Ascend and descend in functional and creative beauty!
A double-helix staircase consists of two intertwined helical staircases around a central axis, allowing people to ascend and descend without crossing paths – beautifully portrayed by the Vatican, Bramante Staircase.
Linear Drain, Corner Shelf, & Niche Shelf
Dahlstrom Director of Sales
All in for alcoves
BY TERRI FERRAGUT
here is something undeniably charming about a kitchen range alcove. Once a prominent feature of European old-world kitchens and grand country estates, range alcoves are now experiencing a major revival in kitchen design. The kitchen alcove first appeared in the nineteenth century when people started incorporating cast-iron stoves into the large hearths of the previous century. During the Victorian era, placing the stove in an alcove helped contain the heat and fireproof the kitchen. These spaces were not just for cooking; they were designed to radiate warmth and friendliness, becoming a central gathering spot for family and friends.
Seamless integration is the key to the success of this alcove. Courtesy Dura Supreme Cabinetry
Enhanced access provides organization and efficiency. Courtesy Dura Supreme Cabinetry
Over time, as open kitchens and sleek designs gained popularity, alcoves evolved into new forms. Today, even if they no longer contain a roaring fire, they still embody the spirit of gathering and practicality. They have transformed from simple, functional spaces into elegant architectural features that can enhance the style and efficiency of any modern kitchen. The natural enclosure around the entire range creates a striking design element. The interior of the range alcove is a unique space, offering endless design and architectural possibilities. Kitchen alcoves are enjoying a beautiful resurgence for various reasons, especially
A pot filler and organized storage create a work-horse alcove zone. Courtesy Dura Supreme Cabinetry
Wood and cabinetry work in harmony in this alcove design. Courtesy Dura Supreme Cabinetry
Another view of colors and textures uniting in design. Courtesy Dura Supreme Cabinetry
range alcoves. Like a charming niche, they make your culinary space stand out. They are not only visually appealing but also provide smart storage solutions. Benefits include aesthetic and functional features such as lighting options, concealed ventilation, additional storage, integrated spice racks, utensil storage, and display niches.
So, in today’s kitchens, what are the most compelling reasons homeowners choose to incorporate this nook into their space planning?
Decluttering and organization are both wins with an alcove. It provides a dedicated space for your stove, helping to centralize cooking activities and reduce clutter in the kitchen.
Streamlined cooking is a plus. With your stove in an alcove, you can incorporate storage shelves for spices and keep utensils nearby, improving cooking efficiency.
Enhanced safety results as it creates a barrier between the cooking area and other kitchen elements, potentially reducing the risk of accidents.
Ventilation is improved when a range hood is included in the alcove, which helps draw away smoke and odors, improving air quality.
A focal point is created by an alcove, as a central, eye-catching element in the kitchen, adds architectural interest and visual appeal.
Sophistication abounds in this focal point alcove area. Courtesy Dura Supreme Cabinetry
The integrated lighting and ventilation within the range hood is an alcove plus. The surrounding star is tile. Courtesy Dura Supreme Cabinetry
Endless design customization is achieved by enhancing the look with design elements by incorporating custom cabinetry, decorative tiles, or unique finishes you love.
Add character and depth to the overall aesthetics of the kitchen space with an alcove. It creates a comforting warmth that transcends the room.
Whether you're looking to renovate or build new, consider a range alcove to add character, organization and a touch of elegance to your culinary sanctuary. It's a statement, a testament to the blend of age-old tradition and modern practicality. Integrating beauty and function, it will play a central role in how you experience and enjoy your kitchen spaces daily.
Perfection defines this alcove with a ventilation hood, floating shelf, pot filler and an elegant Taj Mahal quartz backdrop.
Courtesy Northern Stone
Glacier White quartz is a stunning backdrop for this alcove with a floating shelf and elegant range hood. Courtesy Northern Stone.
Creative Kitchen harmony
Creative Kitchen has been at the heart of family memories for 50 years. Every product we carry is thoughtfully selected for beauty, function, and durability to keep you equipped through generations of shared stories, laughter, and harmonious family moments around the table. Transform your everyday cooking into meaningful gatherings with tools and essentials from where it all started — Creative Kitchen.
SHOWN: Shun chef knife, Larchwood cutting board, Hestan au gratin baking dishes
Photography by Jessica Bivens • Special thanks to Jordahl Custom Homes
LARCHWOOD CUTTING BOARDS, handmade in Nova Scotia from Canadian Larch, have a distinctive end-grain design. Gentle on knives, naturally durable, and striking enough to be the centerpiece of any kitchen. Heirloom-quality, they are meant to be used and enjoyed for generations.
Cooking
The artistry of SHUN CUTLERY is a Japanese tradition that equals modern innovation. Each knife is handcrafted in Seki City, Japan, with precision and intention.
SHOWN: Shun Premier 8” Chef’s knife, Larchwood cutting board
• Shun Premier – a refined profile with a handhammered finish and exceptional sharpness.
• Shun Kazahana – the pinnacle of craftsmanship, with over 100 hand-finished steps in each blade.
JURA, an automatic coffee system that turns your everyday routines into relaxing café-worthy experiences.
SHOWN: Jura coffee maker, Le Creuset espresso cups
LE CREUSET, the iconic, French enameled cast iron and stoneware, has been treasured for generations for both beauty and reliability.
SHOWN: Signature sauce pan in Sea Salt color
HESTAN, innovative cookware built for precision and durability, brings professional performance into your home.
OLIVELLE, extra virgin olive oil, cold-extracted from 100% Koroneiki olives from the Kalamata region of Greece.
SHOWN: Hestan 11” Probound skillet, Olivelle extra virgin olive oil
SpecialGatherings
BY TERRI FERRAGUT PHOTOGRAPHY BY JILL OCKHARDT BLAUFUSS
Nestled in Ottertail County, near Vergas, Minnesota, lies Sybil Lake, a sprawling 682 acres of glistening, clean water surrounded by scenic views and a serene atmosphere. The sanctity of lake living often begins with a plot of land where memories are forged, cherished and endeared throughout multiple family generations. For these homeowners, the family name became synonymous with Sybil Lake and the surrounding community, which eventually became the impetus for new chapters to be written. Sybil Lake, three miles east of Vergas, is a special place on the map for the Soland family whose ties to lake country run deep. Soland's grandparents purchased acreage on Sybil Lake in 1978, and in its most humble state, it consisted of a dock and a fire pit. It was where the family enjoyed congregating for picnics and other activities, as a sense of “home” was quickly becoming established. Family picnics and fishing became an important part of their lake experience.
In Minnesota lake country, every season brings unmistakable beauty and peace. Cradled in the woods, the stillness of fall and winter delivers another space in time that regenerates and feeds the soul.
This beautifully accommodated vacation rental sleeps 16 plus, featuring a year-round hot tub and a private heated swimming pool open from May 1 through October 31.
Nathan Soland and his husband Joe Wehri both grew up in small-town America. Nathan grew up in Vergas, Minnesota, and Joe in Delphos, Ohio. Now residing in Minneapolis, Soland had always envisioned having a place near his hometown. Growing up at the lake with his extended family, he created many special memories. The allure of Sybil was strong. “So, all he needed was for me to fall in love with Vergas, too – and I did,” Wehri shares. “Vergas should amaze everyone. This town of 300 invests in celebrations, parks and recreation, and its small businesses. We love how the locals support each other and invest in building a thriving small town.” The sense of community was immediate. “Nathan’s family and this town welcomed me with open arms and hearts over ten years ago. Since then, I keep experiencing just how special this place is.”
Soland, Wehri and their triplets know “a little something” about big families. Sybil Haus was built for families of different sizes to have a comfortable experience.
This equipped butler panty is indispensable in creating efficient harmony in the kitchen, especially for multiple family meals.
A second kitchen on the lower level provides additional space for gathering for a snack, a glass of wine, or simply morning coffee.
Spacious and well-equipped for a quick bite or a full gourmet meal, this kitchen is prepared to meet the demands.
Formal dining and great conversations with Sybil Lake as an inspiring backdrop take place here.
In the fall of 2019, the timing was perfect. Soland and Wehri purchased five acres from the Soland family, next to Nathan’s grandparents’ property, and paid off the land over several years. They then decided to build and join the vibrant community. In 2023, construction began, and shortly thereafter, Sybil Lake Properties LLC was established. Their goal was to develop and operate a peaceful and memorable vacation rental that could host large or multiple families. Out of their efforts, “Sybil Haus” was born, which the family actively manages and also enjoys throughout all the seasons.
Wehri explains, “We both have many siblings, nieces and nephews. This is one of the many reasons we built Sybil Haus – for families of many different sizes to enjoy.”
They intentionally chose to work with building and design professionals in the Lakes Area. “We collaborated with Tony Stoll, AIA, and team at Widseth (formerly bhh Partners), Scott McCall at McCall Construction, and Bailee Currie at Karvonen Design Studio. All came highly recommended by family and friends in the area.” Soland and Wehri valued the team's professionalism and the positive attitude they encountered. Their ability to listen to the homeowner’s questions was essential and appreciated. “They kept our budget in mind and dreamed big,” Wehri explains. “From countertops and cabin color to fixtures and flooring, they researched, measured, subcontracted,
This main gathering space is the perfect space to relax. From playing Mozart on the grand piano to reading your favorite novel by the fire, it is all here for the Sybil Haus guests.
Pictured here is one of many beautiful bathrooms in Sybil Haus, complete with lake views.
This king bedroom suite with stunning views of Sybil Lake is one of three king bedrooms with adjoining, elegant bathrooms.
Rustic elegance is the theme in this bedroom suite. The calm of blue will lull you to relax in these sleeping quarters.
A charming bedroom suite with direct access to the pool area is the perfect place for a morning dip or at the desk space,
and narrowed down the options. They helped us turn our vision boards and ideas into the ultimate Minnesota getaway experience.”
Each room breathes a distinct and unique aesthetic by incorporating a mix of design elements, textures, flooring types and color – and yet it all still makes beautiful sense altogether. “We wanted Sybil Haus to feel like a private, lakeside retreat and yet feel warm and familiar enough so that families can imagine spending a week together here.”
A favorite part of living in the lakes area is the appreciation and comfort that come with the changing seasons. Soland and Wehri strongly believe that nearly everything you need to understand about life can be learned by spending time outdoors. With a shared love and respect for nature, they have a special spot in their home that they enjoy – the three-season porch. It's a perfect space for naps and games, and it’s also a great way to experience the beauty of Minnesota year-round.
And those Soland family picnics? Well, they continue to this day.
For more information about Sybil Haus rentals, visit sybilhaus.com
The favorite room of Soland and Wehri is the three-season porch tucked into the treetops. A perfect place to read or play a game of chess.
Spa-like luxury and comfort is created in Sybil Haus with a Nordic-feel sauna, steam shower and adjoining shower room.
ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN
Widseth: Tony Stoll, AIA Perham, MN
INTERIOR DESIGN
Karvonen Design Studio: Bailee Currier Perham, MN
Precision Landscape & Irrigation
Ottertail, MN
Contributors
GENERAL CONTRACTOR, BUILDER
McCall Construction: Scott McCall, Owner/Operator
Project Superintendent: Wayne Storry
Project Manager: Matt Malone Perham, MN
Design to Sell Detroit Lakes, MN
Lakes Area Painting Nisswa, MN
Ottertail Glass Perham, MN
Midsota Electric
Ottertail, MN
Photo Courtesy Kylee Connor, Widseth
Build Dynamic... Build for Life
Since 1970, Dynamic Homes has helped thousands of customers build the home of their dreams. From single-family homes to cabins, cottages and more, when you build with Dynamic, you can create a distinctive, yet affordable home designed to meet your needs, style, budget, and timeline. Choosing the right builder for your home is important. Once you see how Dynamic’s unique, systembuilt modular construction benefits you, the decision will be easy.
OUR POPULAR LAKER MODEL
1,736 SF, 3-bedroom, 2 bath home
9 ft ceilings throughout, with a vaulted great room
2-panel white oak interior doors
Rustic alder kitchen cabinets and boot bench, Montana maple cabinets in bathrooms
Electric fireplace in great room with hickory wrapped chase
Wild is the music of the autumnal winds amongst the faded woods.
–
William Wordsworth
BY CHEF GRANVILLE WOOD PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY NEVADA BERG, CHEF, AUTHOR
Nothing compares to a crisp, warm autumn day with blue skies and a soft breeze making it feel a touch cooler. Autumn has a known expiration date. On the other side of that day lurks the cold breath of winter, making autumn days all the more valuable. To me, autumn is an inspiring season. It reveals its breadbasket all around us at farmers’ markets and roadside farm stands. Pumpkin and squash varieties are enjoyed in many ways, from grilling and baking to stuffing and roasting them over the open fire.
Growing up in England, our friends, an Estonian family, owned an old country farm where I spent a lot of time. In autumn, we would camp in the orchards, eat fresh apples and pears right off the trees and pick wild berries off the bushes in the dusty lane. As autumn arrived, we would help harvest all the fruits and bring them up to the main house where cider production was underway. Apples would be added to pots of braised red cabbage to enjoy with roast pork and dumpling dinners later.
We would catch fish in the stream that fed the swimming hole, clean and cook them up right there on the bank over a fire with a simple squeeze of lemon. Cooking over open fires was the norm. As the days grew chillier, we would grill sausages while having a sauna and savor cold plunges in the clear, frosty waters of the swimming hole.
What better way to enjoy freshly brewed coffee than in a traditional “Kuksa” hand-carved mug by the Indigenous Sámi people from the Arctic region of Norway.
In the Numedal Valley, Norway, plank salmon is prepared over an open fire by an ancient Viking method, using only what nature provides.
New York Times best-selling cookbook author and award-winning food blogger Nevada Berg is internationally recognized for her “slow-living” philosophy and mindful appreciation of Norwegian cuisine, nature, and community.
Foraging for food is one of Nevada Berg’s greatest pleasures. Here, she holds a basket of fresh, golden chanterelle mushrooms.
“Understanding what’s accessible right in front of us is powerful.”
I learned to backcountry cross-country ski at the farm. After a breakfast of dark bread and cheese, one of the adults would break a trail through the deep woods and fresh snow to make fire in the fire pit. The rest of us packed sausages, cheese and bread with vegetables and potatoes for roasting. The food just takes on a richer, smoky flavor and the vegetables roasted in the hot coals retain their natural goodness and flavor. This communal way of eating around a fire, in the woods, protected from the wind after a good day skiing, was nothing short of ethereal.
Keeping the tradition of open-fire cooking alive, I camped across Canada, the United States and through the Rockies to Vancouver Island, down the coast to Mexico and back up to Montana, cooking with fire all the way. You meet a lot of interesting people sharing a meal around a campfire under the bright stars of the night sky.
What better way to start an autumn day than by serene
still waters, while hot smoking cedar planked salmon and drinking freshly brewed coffee from a hand-carved wooden Norwegian mug? My good friend, Nevada Berg, acclaimed cookbook author, chef, and baker, moved from Utah to a lovely farm deep in the heart of Norway. Embracing the traditions of this ancient land, she explores and documents in her books the old ways with a touch and style uniquely Nevada. Like a true Norwegian, she cooks over a fire deep into the winter months regardless of the weather. When cooking, after a tromp through the woods foraging, Nevada returns to the fire to enjoy a bowl of Norway’s national dish, “Farik Al,” lamb and cabbage stew that has been simmering in a cast-iron pot over the fire – a simple, hearty classic. Foraging is a key part of Nevada’s culinary approach. Fresh herbs, wild mushrooms and plenty of berries are used in both savory and sweet dishes. All of this is featured in her book “North Wild Kitchen,” which will keep you engaged and busy throughout the fall and the upcoming long winter.
The finished product.
A tripod is essential for hanging larger pieces of meat to smoke and slow-cook.
Brann-stil Lammeskanker og Rotgrønnsaker
FIRE-STYLE BEER BRAISED LAMB SHANKS AND ROOT VEGETABLES
This recipe evokes autumn, so I revised this traditional Norwegian recipe by using root vegetables found at every farmers’ market. Lamb shanks are meaty, juicy and very tender when slowly braised over the fire.
INGREDIENTS:
4 lamb shanks
1 large onion, chopped
1 small rutabaga, peeled & chopped
3 Tbsp vegetable oil
¼ cup apple cider vinegar Kosher salt & black pepper
1 large fennel bulb, trimmed & chopped
2 medium carrots, chopped
1 parsnip peeled & chopped
3 Tbsp salted butter
17 oz dark ale
2 cups beef stock
4 garlic cloves, minced (optional)
Flat leaf parsley, chopped for garnish
Rich, smoky flavors permeate throughout.
In the Midwest, autumn is hunting season for deer, moose, various waterfowl, and highland birds, much like Norway. Curing, smoking, and dry aging are techniques brought here by Norwegian immigrants who settled across our region. Techniques used for canning fruits and vegetables complement meats such as smoked duck breast served with caramelized pears or dry-cured venison and lamb shanks. A hearty dish celebrating a successful hunt is “Vilgryte,” meaning wild stew. Try venison steak braised with juniper berries, wild mushrooms, lingonberries, red currants, and thyme. Add Brussels sprouts for a creamy, rich dish with a hint of fire, served with mashed potatoes.
The beauty of cooking over a fire is being able to use several cooking styles with just a few accessories. A tripod is essential for
METHOD:
Place a grilling grate over the fire to heat. Set your braising pot, big enough to hold the lamb shanks, over a cooler part of the fire. Add the butter and melt. Rub the lamb with oil and season it with salt and pepper. Lightly brown, sear and smoke the lamb over the fire. Add all the vegetables to the pot and cook until caramelized. Add the lamb shanks to the pot and pour in the beer and stock. Move to a hot spot on the fire and bring to a boil. Cover and bring it to a cooler spot and simmer for 2 hours. Remove lamb to a platter and cover with foil. Bring the liquid to a boil and reduce to a sauce consistency. Serve lamb over mashed potatoes, spooning sauce and vegetables over them. Garnish with a sprinkling of chopped parsley.
hanging larger pieces of meat over the fire for slow cooking and smoky flavor, and cast-iron pots are used for stews and slow braises. Grills balanced over large rocks or a clean slate slab can be used for cooking Spanish a la plancha style – perfect for searing fish seasoned with foraged herbs and lemon slices. Coals are great for roasting root vegetables like whole carrots, onions, leeks, potatoes, squash, and pumpkin. Brush off the ashes and enjoy full-flavored potatoes, or try wrapping them in foil with herbs, garlic, butter, and spices. Cooking outside over an open fire on an autumn day is soulful and the food tastes earthy and full of flavor. Mankind has been gathering friends and family around a fire since the start of time. Where would we be without fire?
Place a grilling grate directly over the fire to heat. Drizzle lamb with mild oil, then salt and pepper on both sides.
Fall’s bounty of root vegetables creates a perfect scenario for roasting directly on the grill or wrapped in tin foil on the coals.
Place the oiled and seasoned lamb shanks directly on the fire. Sear and smoke both sides until golden brown.
— Trina Hildebrant Kalm,
Fika
The Swedish art of coffee break
STORY AND PHOTOGRAPHY
BY LAUREN FERRAGUT CARLSON
Life without fika is unthinkable,” one Swede puts it. In Sweden, fika is as common as breakfast, lunch, or dinner. It is woven into travel plans, busy work schedules, and hectic family gatherings. Translated, it means “to drink coffee” or “coffee and cake break.” Culturally, it is so much more. It represents tradition both as a social engagement to strengthen bonds and relationships as well as an integral part of Swedish food culture. It is about slowing down and appreciating those around you.
It isn’t easy to compare an American coffee break to fika. In America, we have a very work-driven mentality. We may take a “quick 15” (or not) for a bite or a rest, then it’s back to work. Typically, we find the plastic container
with leftover, stale, crumbled cookies sitting sadly in our office break rooms. In Scandinavian countries, family and quality time are valued much more highly than work. Fika is a state of mind, an attitude, and even a ritual. It occurs in every home and workplace multiple times throughout the day. Even the Volvo Company in Sweden shuts down operations for fika.
Food and coffee are central to Swedish fika. Traditional fika consists of classic recipes every Swede knows and can bake from memory. These recipes are passed down through generations, including cinnamon buns, chocolaty kladdkaka, dense apple frysikaka, and even open-faced sandwiches. The heart of the matter is that all are homemade and shared.
In Sweden, fika occurs in every home and workplace multiple times a day.
Perfect for fall fika - Apelsinsnittar.
Fika can take place anytime between 6:00 am and 9:00 pm, depending on the household or company. Team leaders at many Swedish companies promote fika and encourage employees to bring baked goods to the workplace. Studies have shown that fika increases happiness, workplace camaraderie, and productivity.
To make things cozy and enjoyable, fika is often accompanied by candlelight. Scandinavians are wild about candles! Even a well-lit office or home at high noon will have candles at fika. Whatever you choose to eat at fika should be homemade and well presented. Sliced cookies are common because they are generally good-looking and quick to make. Any good Swede has a freezer full of baked goodies if needed in a pinch. Skurna chokladkakor, or sliced chocolate cookies, are perfect for fika and something I make often in my own home. It is a simple dough you roll, slice, bake and eat. Another classic fika treat is
pinnar or Finnish sticks, which (as the name suggests) are adapted from Sweden’s neighbor to the east. They are an “old-fashioned” fika cookie recipe, common at church gatherings and social events.
finska
Almond and orange flavors permeate the filling, then wrapped in gingery dough filling.
Skiver sjokoladekake, or chocolate cookie, is a special Nordic treat topped with pearl sugar.
Norwegian flettekans or “breaded wreaths” blend candied orange peel, chocolate and cardamom into a delicious yeasted bread – a hearty fika treat.
APELSINSNITTAR ORANGE ALMOND SLICES
DOUGH:
10 Tbsp. unsalted butter, room temp.
½ cup sugar
1½ cups all-purpose flour
1 egg yolk
2 tsp. ground ginger
FILLING:
1½ cups almonds
½ cup sugar
1 tsp. almond extract
1 egg white
Zest of 1 medium orange (1-2 Tbs)
METHOD:
In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar. Add flour, egg yolk and ginger. Mix together until the dough can be formed into a ball. The dough will be crumbly. Cover and let sit in the fridge for 30 minutes. For the filling, mix almonds, sugar and almond extract in a food processor until everything is finely mixed. The mixture will be sticky and smooth. In a bowl, whisk egg whites until frothy. Mix in the almond mixture and orange zest.
Once the dough has rested, divide it into 4 equal parts. Roll each to a ¼ inch thickness with a rolling pin and into a rectangle about 10 x 4 inches. You don’t need to be perfect! Spread ¼ of the almond filling lengthwise in the middle of each rectangle of dough. Fold the top of the dough down over the almond filling, then fold up the bottom third of the dough as if folding paper into thirds. Pinch together to gently seal the dough so the filling doesn’t leak out.
Repeat for each rectangle of the dough. When ready to bake, preheat the oven to 400˚F. Place each log of dough with the seam side down and bake for 15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden brown. Let cool before icing.
DRIZZLE WITH ORANGE ICING:
¼ cup confectioner’s sugar
2 tsp orange juice
Velkommen til Stabo!
The beauty of Scandinavian awaits you.
Butter, flour, and sugar are the base of most Swedish recipes, but sometimes they are spiced up a bit, like apelsinsnittar, my favorite. These treats consist of homemade almond paste wrapped in spicy ginger dough and drizzled with a cheery orange glaze. I make these in winter to add a little zesty brightness to my taste buds.
Whether you have 20 minutes or no time in your day to spare, I challenge you to add a little fika to your life. Slow down your busy pace with a cup of coffee, a butter cookie, a conversation with a friend, and a good book…or simply your thoughts. You may find you’ll feel just a bit better.
It
[fika] exemplifies tradition equally as a social engagement to strengthen bonds and relationships, as it does for the Swedish food culture. It is about slowing down and enjoying those around you.
Photographer | Real Estate Photography
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