CELEBRATING 20 YEARS
OPEN AIR
A 1905 Lake Minnetonka home blends the indoors and outdoors on its century-old porches
PLYMOUTH 55+ COMMUNITY
This exceptional end-unit townhome in highly desirable Cornerstone Commons offers style, comfort, and modern updates. 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 2144sqft, it features all essential living spaces on one level!
Kathryn Peters 952-393-2236
COMING SOON
Charming Lake Minnetonka home on 50’ of rip-rap lakeshore in Minnetonka Beach. Spectacular views of A rated Crystal Bay. 4 bedrooms/4 bathrooms. Dakota trail runs thru backyard for miles of hiking/biking. Walkable to other amenities. LAKE MINNETONKA CHARMER Lezlie and Les Bork 612-396-3887
COMING SOON
Stunning 4-bed, 4-bath modern farmhouse with luxurious features. Walkable to Downtown Excelsior’s beach, park, dining, and shopping. Top-rated Minnetonka Schools. BUILT IN 2023! The Hermann Group 612-386-8009
COMING SOON
HIGH DEMAND WAYCLIFFE!
Charming 3-bed, 3-bath home with 3 fireplaces and ample storage, walkable to downtown Wayzata’s amenities. Enjoy beach access to Gleason Lake. Ready for your personal touch!
The Hermann Group 612-386-8009
Designed with warm, functional spaces and high-quality materials that harmonize beautifully with its natural surroundings, this 4 bed, 4 bath home was crafted for relaxed living and effortless entertaining. Enjoy easy access to the beach, trails, parks & top-rated schools. COVETED DEEPHAVEN The Hermann Group 612-221-7561
CU STOM HOMES
Feeling overwhelmed by the idea of building your dream home? You’re not alone. Many homeowners are frustrated with unreliable builders and complicated processes that leave them questioning their dreams. At Gonyea Custom Homes, we understand how stressful building a home can be. For over 30 years, we’ve helped hundreds of clients confidently build their dream homes through a streamlined, proven design-build process.
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HOMES issue the
Inspiration
Photo: Chris Emeott
from the EDITOR
Welcome to this month’s homes issue. As always, our writers develop articles with you, Readers, top of mind. The goal is to not only highlight local businesses and people, but to offer doses of inspiration and creativity for your lives. This month is no exception, and I hope you find fresh ways to make your homes restful, joyous and more of what you want out of your nest
After reading this issue’s articles, I was reminded that there is an area in my home that suffers from lack of design attention and updating—the primary bedroom and bath suite. Who’s with me on this one?
Where to start!? Those spaces have become the official landing pad of this, that and everything in between—laundry in various stages of drying and folding; photos, waiting for their new homes in a stack of empty frames; gifts for that holiday or this birthday; and books, begging to have their pages turned and words consumed. This, my friends, is not the restful space I envision—or deserve.
Are you like me? Do other spaces in your home sit at the top of the list when it comes to serious updating and décor tweaks? While I know ramping up the restorative vibe of the primary bedroom really wouldn’t take much doing—the bathroom is another matter—I seem to have a mental block when it comes to this space. After reading Jennifer Pitterle’s article on page 20 about Timber & Tulip in Wayzata, I have renewed inspiration to create a space that awakens each day with fresh energy and bids each night sweet and rest filled dreams.
What space are you inspired to transform? Happy dreaming, planning and changing!
Until next month,
Renée Stewart-Hester renee@localmedia.co
Photo by Susan Gilmore, page 26
Photo: Chris Emeott
Bundl Home offers exceptional one-stop home cleaning services.
Our homes are a major investment—financially and emotionally—so keeping them in prime condition is essential. As our schedules brim with family, career and social commitments, finding time to properly care for our homes can be challenging. There is a local solution!
Veteran-owned Bundl Home has been proudly serving the community for over two decades. What started as a small, local cleaning business has expanded to better meet the growing need for reliable, high-quality home cleaning services. While they are known for weekly, biweekly and monthly residential cleaning, the service menu also includes one-time deep cleaning and specialty cleaning for windows, hard-to-reach areas, gutters, power washing and more. “Our clients count on us for a consistently high standard of cleaning,” says owner Jay Sachetti. “We take pride in providing a professional, seamless experience for homeowners who expect the best.”
Clients value the ease, quality and reliability that the Bundl Home team provides. “… I’m so impressed by the Bundl crew and how clean they made our house—never seen it so clean,” a satisfied customer says. Another neighbor had the team out to clean interior and exterior windows of their two-story home and raves, “I was blown away at how clear the windows and screens were. The two gentlemen were courteous and meticulous.”
With over 150 years of combined tenure on the team, Bundl Home’s professional crews specialize in servicing homes in some of the area’s most exclusive neighborhoods, including pristine properties on Lake Minnetonka, Bearpath Golf & Country Club in Eden Prairie and Edina’s Rolling Green and Sunny Slope neighborhoods, along with many more.
Bundl Home is also committed to its team, providing industry-leading benefits for over 30 technicians. “Our employees are the foundation of our success,” Sachetti says. “We invest in their training and well-being, ensuring they are motivated to deliver exceptional service for every client.”
Bundl Home puts out the welcome mat for new customers with a $200 bonus when they sign up for recurring services.
(COUPON: WELCOME200)
VOL. 19 NO. 12 lakeminnetonkamag.com
PUBLISHER
Susan Isay
EDITOR
Renée Stewart-Hester
MANAGING CREATIVE DIRECTOR
Renée Stewart-Hester
MANAGING EDITOR
Hailey Almsted
DIGITAL EDITOR
Madeline Kopiecki
COPY EDITORS
Kellie Doherty and Sherri Hildebrandt
STAFF WRITERS
Mollee Francisco, Emily Gedde, Meredith Heneghan, Daniel Huss, Jennifer Pitterle and Rachel Schuehle
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
KILL LAKE WEEDS KILL LAKE WEEDS
Andrew Akhaphong, Hollie Blanchard, Jan Cook, Laurel Famigletti, Alison Feik, Lynette Kalsnes, Spencer Olson, Rima Parikh, Molly Rivard, Raela Schoenherr, Lisa Stevens and Katie Tomsche
DIGITAL INTERN
Taylor Hamilton
EDITORIAL INTERNS
Ellie Heyerdahl and Emma Souza
EDITORIAL ADVISORY BOARD
Minnetonka Schools ; David Decker, House Novel ; Sue Gartner, Crown Warehouse ; Kelly Olsen, Olsen Global ; Michele Phillips, blogger, writer and photographer ; Greater Wayzata Area Chamber of Commerce ; and Amanda Zielike, House Novel
SENIOR MANAGING ART DIRECTOR
Sarah Dovolos
ART DIRECTOR
Allison Nolden
ASSOCIATE ART DIRECTOR
Jamie Klang
GRAPHIC DESIGNER
Yaz Lo
LEAD STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Chris Emeott
PRODUCTION DIRECTOR
Brittni Dye
PRODUCTION MANAGER
Lisa Stone
PRODUCTION COORDINATOR
Mimi Coz
SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES
Laura Bjorgo, Cynthia Hamre, Mary-Catherine Hartel and Sara Johnson
PRESIDENT Pete Burgeson
The Cedar Roof Man
STRAIGHT TALK FROM STEVE KUHL
Let’s face it. Cedar roofs look great but owning one is a little scary. “Has it been damaged by hail?” “Will it blow off in a storm?” “I hear something chewing up there!” But despite what you may hear, your cedar roof is still one of the most beautiful and long-lasting products on the market. The only catch is you have take care of it.
That’s where I come in. My free, written estimate includes a thorough analysis of your roof. Bringing over 25 years of experience to the table, I will evaluate its’ condition to determine whether or not maintenance, repairs or replacement is the best option for you. Worst case scenario you get a free inspection from a true expert. Best case, we work our magic on your roof and add years to its lifespan.
In fact, Kuhl’s Contracting is looked to for the evaluation and restoration of cedar roofs by more insurance companies, home inspectors, realtors and architects than any other company in Minnesota. Not to brag, but we are pretty awesome. Don’t take my word for it. Check out our talents at www.kuhlscontracting.com. Or ask around. We have probably done work for someone you know.
I started this company in 1987. Since that time we have worked on thousands of homes around the Twin Cities. My approach to business has never wavered. Be honest, be reliable and do great work. As a result our list of happy clients grows daily.
Owner, Dad, Wood Roof Geek
THE CREATIVE BUILDER
For those interested in learning more about the building industry, Mark Williams, owner of Mark D. Williams Custom Homes Inc. in Excelsior, shares his insights and sheds the light on others in the industry during his podcast, The Curious Builder, which continues to grow in popularity since its inception in December 2022.
“I love hearing people’s stories,” Williams says. “I interview people from all over the country—builders, designers, architects. I really want to celebrate people who are entrepreneurs.”
The podcast gives a voice to building industry
professionals, providing them a platform to tell their stories about starting and growing their businesses, highlighting challenges and wins and revealing insights listeners can apply to their own businesses and experiences. Most episodes are about an hour long and feature a host of topics. “I like to entertain, and this helps me do that,” Williams says. —Emily Gedde
Learn more about Mark Williams on page 44 and curiousbuilderpodcast.com.
Mark Williams
Celebrate With Books
This April brings several holidays, celebrations and observances, including Easter, Passover and Earth Day. Hennepin County Library has many wonderful picture books with Minnesota connections to help you observe and celebrate.
Easter on the Farm by Minnesota author Phyllis Alsdurf is about young girl who visits her aunt and uncle’s farm and helps prepare for her family’s annual Easter celebration.
Tyrannosaurus Tsuris: A Passover Story by Susan Tarcov, published by a Minneapolis-based publisher, is about a dinosaur attempting to host a Passover Seder.
Plant a Pocket of Prairie by Minnesota author Phyllis Root is a wonderful picture book that discusses how growing native prairie plants can help recreate food and habitat for the many birds, butterflies and other animals that depend on them.
We have these and many other wonderful stories to share. Come check us out.
Molly Rivard is a librarian, serving the Wayzata and Long Lake branches of the Hennepin County Library system. Read more at hclib.org.
Elevate Easter Brunch
Cardamom brings warm flavors with hints of mint, lemon and subtle notes of pine. A 2017 study in the Journal of Diabetes & Metabolic Disorders found consuming ½ tsp. of cardamom daily lowered cholesterol and improved blood sugar levels within two months, compared to a placebo. It contains an antioxidant, quercetin, which has shown similar benefits. Strawberries are also rich in quercetin. Cardamom and strawberries pair perfectly for an antioxidant-rich meal. Encourage health and wellness with this recipe, and remember—any food can fit into a balanced lifestyle.
Strawberries and Cream French Toast
» 16 oz. loaf of chunky cinnamon bread, thickly sliced
» 1 pint strawberries, washed, sliced into halves and stems removed
» 10 eggs
» 2 ½ cups heavy cream, divided
» 1 stick unsalted butter, melted
» ½ tsp. ground cardamom
» ¼ tsp. ground nutmeg
» ½ tsp. sea salt
» 4 oz. mascarpone
» ¼ cup powdered sugar, plus extra for garnish
» 1 tsp. vanilla extract, divided
Visit lakeminnetonkamag.com for the complete recipe and other recipes featuring cardamon in the November and December 2024 issues.
Andrew Akhaphong M.S., R.D., L.D., is a registered dietitian at Mackenthun’s Fine Foods. Taste more at mackenthuns.com.
GIVE
It’s a Wrap
Put a new spin on housewarming gifts for homeowners. Encourage a new hobby or a way to enjoy a bit of outdoor living by gifting a birdhouse, feeder or a bird identification book. There are several options at Minnetonka’s All Seasons Bird Store and wildbirdstore.com.
Staff points to Birds of Minnesota Field Guide by Stan Tekiela, respected Twin Cities author, naturalist and wildlife photographer. The field guide groups birds by color, making it a great and easy-to-use choice for bird watchers and children.
Visit page 22 to read more about how to offer proper accommodations and feed for feathered yard visitors.
—Mollee Francisco
Bedroom Community
A Wayzata furniture designer offers ideas for creating the perfect sanctuary for rest and wellness.
By Jennifer Pitterle
When embarking on a home design (or redesign) project, it’s easy to neglect private spaces, including the primary bedroom in favor of “guest-friendly” areas of the house.
But bedrooms “are such personal sanctuaries,” Brianne Rasmussen says. “The way they’re designed can impact how restful and rejuvenating they feel.”
Rasmussen owns Timber & Tulip, a home furnishings shop in Wayzata that offers custom-built wood furniture for bedrooms and beyond. “Since the bedroom is where we start and end each day, a thoughtful design can support mental relaxation and help improve sleep quality,” she says.
Rasmussen has a few key dos and don’ts when it comes to bedroom design. “Avoid bright and bold paint colors, which can interrupt that feeling of restfulness,” she says. Consider warmer hues, like taupes and beiges, instead of once-trendy minimalist grays. Likewise, nix harsh overhead lighting. “Consider sconce-style lighting that’s built into the wall instead of nightstand lamps,” Rasmussen says, especially if you’re tight on surface space. “If you do have overhead lighting, make sure it’s dimmable. A floor lamp can be a great option, too.”
Timber & Tulip offers custom rugs from brands like Fibreworks in a variety of sizes and materials, including cozy 100 percent wool. “Soft rugs are a must-have instead of cold flooring like tile or stone in a bedroom,” Rasmussen says.
And while previous generations have venerated matchy-matchy bedroom sets, Rasmussen says a better approach is to choose pieces that are functional
A life well lived requires a space for proper rest and luxe renewal.
The Timber & Tulip team has recommendations for creating the ideal sanctuary.
and complementary—not necessarily perfectly matched. “You can have different pieces in a room that have their own personalities but maybe share a wood element,” she says. “Maybe you have a walnut nightstand with a dove-painted face and a black handle. That handle ties into a black floor lamp you have in the corner.” Enlisting the help of experts like Rasmussen and her design team can help make the process—the “art” of selecting furniture pieces—seem less overwhelming; they offer complimentary design consultations to get clients started on the right foot.
To minimize clutter, look to the
nightstand, Rasmussen says. Timber & Tulip’s Nori and Kennedy nightstands are fully custom, from the size to the drawer fronts to the paint color. Add a woven basket for odds and ends on an open shelf, and don’t overlook the storage possibilities in the drawer. “Made Goods has an excellent variety of nightstands available at Timber & Tulip as well,” she says. Timber & Tulip also offers custom headboards. Rasmussen walks clients through each step, from measuring the bedroom and sizing the headboard to selecting wood and upholstery materials. The headboards (like Timber & Tulip’s other house brand furniture) are built
HANDS-ON DESIGN
After leaving her career in accounting and finance in 2016, Brianne Rasmussen wanted to design high-end furniture that would offer customers something unique and long-lasting amid a deluge of cookie-cutter pieces from big box stores. Flash forward and Timber & Tulip opened in Wayzata last fall. “We have a lot of people coming in to get inspiration from the floor,” she says. Once customers identify what décor and furniture elements they are drawn to, “Then we can talk about the specific options,” Rasmussen says. “I help with the design process in a very hands-on way.”
• Awarded top producer and established expert in the Lake Minnetonka community
• In-depth understanding of today’s market and trends
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by carpenters in nearby Hastings. “The process ensures that a headboard complements the room’s aesthetic, and we handle the craftsmanship to bring that vision to life,” she says.
For finishing touches, look to a custom-made bench for the foot of the bed and a few pieces from local artists and photographers, many of whom are featured in Timber & Tulip’s showroom.
Timber & Tulip, 714 Lake St. E., Wayzata; 612.916.7465; timberandtulip.com Timber & Tulip @timberandtulip Timber and Tulip
WEINSTOCK REALTOR® C. 612.309.8332 kdweinstock@cbburnet.com weinstockgroup.com 19400 Highway 7 Excelsior, MN 55331
SCENERY
Feathering Their Nest
Birds are welcome additions to any outdoor landscape.
By Mollee Francisco
As we take an extra look at homes in this issue, why not educate ourselves about housing birds, which do so much to fortify outdoor natural habitats and provide hours of enjoyment to novice and dedicated birdwatchers?
While different varieties of birds require various types of birdhouses, there are some good starter homes. We asked Carol Chenault, manager of the All Seasons Wild Bird Store in Minnetonka’s Westwind Plaza, for some recommendations for birdhouses, feeders and feed.
For starters, what do we need to know when birdhouse shopping? There is a variety to choose from, but remember that the size of a birdhouse’s portal opening indicates what type of bird it is suited for, Chenault notes. For example, wrens need 1-inch openings, and chickadees require 1 1/8-inch openings. Perches, while adding a certain curb appeal, aren’t needed, but good ventilation is important. If hanging a birdhouse on a branch, lighter-weight houses can be positioned near the end of branches to deter raccoons and squirrels from paying a visit. A post model with a squirrel baffle is the most predator proof, notes Chenault.
Should we place nesting materials in birdhouses?
Chenault: There’s no need to put anything inside the house; birds will collect their own nesting materials. However, adding Best Nest Builder to the yard will provide extra nesting materials for chickadees, goldfinches and cardinals. (Best Nest Builder contains natural materials like cotton that can be placed near a bird feeder for the birds to find and use.) Tip: The end of the nesting season is the best time to clean out nesting materials. Some birds (bluebirds and house wrens, for example), nest more than one time a year, so be aware and clean out those houses after each nesting. Chenault wears a mask to prevent inhaling dirt and waste materials.
What is a good starter bird feeder?
Chenault: A bird feeder that attaches to the window with suction cups will bring birds up close to entertain children, cats and dogs. There are several types of window feeders, including hummingbird
feeders for nectar, jelly feeders for orioles, seed feeders and suet feeders. Suet feeders are low maintenance and come in a variety of styles and colors. Tip: Cleaning out enclosed feeders once a quarter is ideal. Empty out the food, soak the feeder overnight in water and gentle dish soap. Use a bottle brush to scrub the interior, and rinse.
What are some bird seed options?
Chenault: Consider a compressed seed product to attract a variety of birds like northern cardinals, blue jays, rosebreasted grosbeaks, chickadees, nuthatches and goldfinches. The seed is compressed with edible gelatin—available in bell or cylinder shapes—and limits seed droppage and waste. Place your compressed seed product in a wire EZ Feeder or seed bell feeder for easy set-itand-forget-it bird feeding. For loose seed, Joe’s Mix is a signature mix and is still our best seller after 35 years in business. It contains black oil sunflower, golden safflower, stripe sunflower, white safflower, peanuts, sunflower hearts, cracked corn and white millet that will attract chickadees, cardinals, nuthatches, jays, finches and woodpeckers. It can be used in a tube feeder, a hopper feeder, a platform feeder or a fly-through feeder. Suet is another great option that will attract woodpeckers, chickadees and nuthatches.
What about squirrels?
Chenault: To discourage squirrels, select a compressed seed product that contains hot pepper. The addition of capsaicin selectively deters squirrels; birds are not affected by this derivative of hot peppers, as they lack the receptor that indicates spicy flavor. Select suet varieties that contain hot pepper to discourage squirrels. Feed loose seed in a squirrel-resistant feeder like the Squirrel Buster Mini or Legacy. These feeders are weight activated and will close off the feeding ports with the weight of a squirrel.
All Seasons Wild Bird Store, 4759 County Road 101, Minnetonka; 952.935.5892; 12981 Ridgedale Drive Suite 103, Minnetonka; 952.473.4283; wildbirdstore.com
Allseasonswildbirdstore @allseasonswildbirdstore
deephaven
OFFERED AT $3,595,000 6 BED, 6 BATH, 5,953 FSF
Welcome to upscale casual living in the heart of Cottagewood USA! This custom farmhouse was thoughtfully designed by Ben Nelson and crafted by Konen Homes. No detail is left out, with high-end Marvin Ultimate Line windows, shiplap walls, vintage-stained oak flooring, rolling barn doors, ceiling millwork, and more. Blocks from one of five Deephaven city beaches, this residence offers unmatched convenience to the LRT trail, tennis, pickleball, parks, and boating!
minnetonka
OFFERED AT $734,000 4 BED, 3 BATH, 3,289 FSF
The residence offers the perfect blend of comfort and convenience and is just minutes from Wayzata Bay/Lake Minnetonka. Spacious and designed for easy living and entertaining, the warm and inviting atmosphere is ideal for cozy nights in, or memorable gatherings with family and friends. An ideal floor plan with three bedrooms on the main level including a luxurious master suite featuring a private en suite bathroom; a peaceful retreat after a long day. Experience the tranquility and convenience of Lake Minnetonka area living.
MINNEAPOLIS
OFFERED AT $945,000
3 BED, 2 BATH, 2,801 FSF
Experience luxury and location in this Lynnhurst executive home, steps from Lake Harriet. The open main floor boasts vaulted ceilings, a chef’s kitchen with a Wolf range, and a solarium-style dining room overlooking beautiful professional landscaping. The remodeled lower level features a spa-like bath, Finnish sauna, and new laundry room. Outdoors, enjoy Brazilian Walnut decking, a saltwater hot tub, and a private studio—perfect for refined urban living.
DEEPHAVEN
OFFERED AT $2,00,000
5 BED, 4 BATH, 4,279 FSF
*Buyer Representation
Enjoy the best of Lake Minnetonka living in this stunning Deephaven home on over 1 acre with deeded lake access. Highlights include a luxurious owner’s suite, a white quartz kitchen, a Venetian fireplace, a family room with 9-foot ceilings, and a sunroom with wetland views— perfect for family, fun, and entertaining. The finished basement includes a large living area, game room, and private workout space!
Regency Homes continues its legacy and commitment to excellence, celebrating 40 years in the industry.
Whether it’s through a new home build or by way of an addition or renovation, Regency Homes has been at the forefront of helping clients create their forever homes with mindful and expert attention to details. “I realize what a big investment this is for each family and what the importance of home means,” says owner Lori Serum, who has been with Regency since the beginning—40 years ago. “I listen to what my clients
are looking for, and we work together to bring their vision to reality.”
Serum’s experience enables her to understand the build/remodel space— from start to finish. She began her career with Regency as a temporary receptionist, which turned into a permanent post—and eventual ownership. “It just all fell into place,” Serum says. “I grew up working with my brothers on my family’s dairy farm, Blue Mound
Dairy in Luverne, so I was pretty accustomed to working in a male-dominated business. I was a typical farm kid until moving up to the Twin Cities, which was extremely intimidating. Once I got my footing in the big city, I knew anything was possible that I put my mind to.”
Even a dip in the economy didn’t hinder Serum. “Before the 2009-2010 downturn, our focus was 100 percent on custom homes,” she says. “During
this time, I was given opportunities to do remodels, from large to small. That is what kept our doors open, and it helped grow our business at the same time.”
That uptick in business also came with expanded options for homeowners when it comes to making feature selections while designing their new or renovated homes. “What used to be a few changes made to a handful of floor plans, now is really starting from scratch by planning and designing each space,” Serum says. “Having so many choices ensures each home has its unique touches and design personality.”
What hasn’t changed over the years is Serum’s commitment to budgeting and detailed planning for each project. “I create a 30-plus page document that has all the details and materials listed,” she says. “It really becomes such a useful document, and our customers appreciate its complete transparency and usefulness as a tool between Regency and our subcontractors.”
Building a strong business foundation is important to Serum. “I absolutely love what I do, which is a blessing,” she says. “I also work with a great team, subcontractors and agents. If you surround yourself with good people, it makes each day easier and fun.”
That commitment and detailed attention resonates with clients, many of whom are repeat clients, and even children of previous clients turn to Regency for their home build/remodel needs. “Our reputation sets us apart and helps draw clients to us,” Serum says.
“Our experience with Regency Homes—all the way from the sales process, design, construction, working with partners on home selections and post-move-in—was the best home building experience we have had,” says Gary and Jill L. of Excelsior. “The team at Regency Homes was responsive, listened carefully to us and executed terrifically. In the end, we are now living in our dream forever home in a location that we love.”
Kath and Mo H. entrusted the Regency team for a major remodel of their 21-year-old Plymouth home, saying, “We could not be more pleased with the result. They made the planning process such a pleasure, listened to our wishes and combined their creative talents with their building expertise and skills to make a plan that was perfect for us.”
The couple highlights the staff’s responsiveness. “Whenever we had a question or concern, they were on it. … When the project was done, they continued to respond to our questions and need for small changes until the finished product was just as we wanted it.”
763.422.9900
regencyhomesincorporated.com
With Lake Minnetonka a whisper view away, spending moments on one of Barbara Burgum’s porches allows for hitting the high note with solitary or group gatherings.
Written by Jennifer Pitterle — Photos by Susan Gilmore
A 1905 Lake Minnetonka home blends the indoors and outdoors on its century-old porches.
OPEN AIR
When you speak with Barbara Burgum about her 1905 Craftsman home in Deephaven, it’s clear she thinks of herself as the steward of the beautiful property—and not just the house, but the extensive gardens, restored prairie and rebuilt boathouse on its original footprint.
Back when Burgum was looking for a new home, “I had asked my [real estate] agent for a small house with a nice yard and a view,” she says with a laugh. “She showed me this five-bedroom monster that needed so much work. I’d never seen a house I loved as much.” The home, which sits on around 2 acres, overlooking Lake Minnetonka, was far from perfect when Burgum purchased it in 1999. “The kitchen was originally designed for cooks and servants and was therefore situated on the ‘back’ side of the house with no view of the lake. Burgum knew it would be a lot of work to open up the main living space while maintaining the exquisite details and style of the original architecture. But the house’s potential, especially its spectacular porches, drew her in.
Those porches, which Burgum has restored but minimally modernized, have become the heart of the home, partly because of their spaciousness. “The porches are just hard to beat,” she says. “Even during a big thunderstorm, you can still have dinner out here [in the winter or open porches].” The first level has five porches, including the winter porch, which flows into the open porch, which leads to the sunset porch, offering exquisite views of the sun going to rest over the lake. On the home’s north side, a barbecue porch connects to the working porch. And there’s more! A sleeping porch can be found on the second level.
Burgum utilizes most of the spaces for intimate dinners and large gatherings. She feels called to share her beautiful home with others. “I can entertain, and I didn’t know how much fun that was,” she says. She hosts business dinners, fundraisers for
charitable organizations, garden-tour luncheons, prewedding dinners for relatives and more. The lake-side porches, which wrap around three sides of the house, can easily hold 120 guests for sit-down dining and other special events.
In a clever bit of 1905 design, the French doors that open to all the porches fold completely back and tuck into niches in the walls, making the transition from indoors to outdoors almost undetectable. “Back when the house was built, you needed so much ventilation,” Burgum says. “You aired out your clothes; even the closets have windows.” In the hot summers of the early 20th century, guests would have arrived at the stately home by boat, climbed the steps up the steep lawn and entered one of the porches, enjoying the cool breeze off the lake. Pretty cutouts in the lower stone walls would have been open for airflow; Burgum has had them sealed off with a pane of glass to let in light and keep out pests.
Burgum and her team have sourced period-accurate furniture for the porches, including wicker chairs, tables and settees, along with sunfast upholstery in patterns that fit the Craftsman aesthetic. Burgum, a retired landscape architect, adorns tables with seasonal bouquets from her bountiful gardens. Brick-tile floors are cool and easy to sweep; screens are replaced with period glass for winter (“It’s charming and wavy,” Burgum says.); and the woodwork is stained deep
caramel oak, with earthy green trim. Outstretched eaves over the porches keep out rain and the worst of the midday sun. The winter porch receives so much low-angled sun that it heats itself nicely even on cold days. “You can actually use it during the day,” she says. “My friends and I will enjoy lunch out there in the sun, wearing our blankets.”
The barbecue porch opens off the kitchen and features an outdoor worktop covered by a deep roof and space for a grill. “You can actually set up a buffet out here,” Burgum says, which is handy for the luncheon crowds who regularly tour her gardens in the summer months. (She is an active member of the Cottagewood and Lake Minnetonka garden clubs.) “And I can also use the worktop as a potting bench for when it’s time to dig up my houseplants and bring them back inside.” During spring, summer and into fall, the half wall of the working porch is topped with an abundance of begonias, which cascade into an orange and green waterfall over the cleverly tucked garage door.
The sleeping porch, off the upstairs main bedroom, is a screened hideaway situated right in the treetops and would have kept the original homeowners and guests cool and comfortable during warm summers in days gone by.
For Burgum, the porches are about more than just aesthetics—they’re a way to create meaningful experiences for herself and her community. “I’m just glad that [the home] survived intact until I could be the one to take care of it,” she says. “When it’s all lit up with flowers, candles and music, and there are 120 people laughing—it feels magical.”
Read more about Barbara Burgum’s lovely lakeside gardens in the May issue of Lake Minnetonka Magazine.
Left: Barbara Burgum hosts family and social engagements, using her porches as the ideal venues for any sort of celebration.
Bottom Left: The winter porch receives so much low-angled sun that it heats itself nicely even on cold days. “My friends and I will enjoy lunch out there in the sun, wearing our blankets,” Burgum says.
Right: The barbecue porch opens off the kitchen and features an outdoor worktop, which can serve as a buffet space, ideal for luncheon crowds who regularly tour the home’s gardens in the summer months. “And I can also use the worktop as a potting bench for when it’s time to dig up my houseplants and bring them back inside,” Burgum says.
HOME AGAIN
Lake Country Builders revisits a familiar Lake Minnetonka home, guiding it into its next phase of life.
Written by Merritt Bamrick — Photos by Spacecrafting Inc.
For one Minnetrista homeowner, a remodel isn’t just about fresh finishes. It’s about making a home evolve alongside the people who love it. More than 20 years ago, Lake Country Builders helped Sharon Thaler breathe new life into her lakeside home. Now, with the kids grown, it was time for another transformation. Not a rebuild, but a thoughtful reimagining that elevated the look, feel and function of nearly every room.
“Sharon is not only one of the kindest clients but one of the kindest people,” says Pete Jacobson, founder of Lake Country
Builders, emphasizing his excitement for helping usher her lakeside home into its next era. “It was like we picked up right where we left off,” adds Thaler. But this time around, Jacobson tapped Windmiller Design Studio and A. Sadowski Designs to direct the overall design vision, while his team coordinated all the details and craftsmanship to make it happen. “Our goal is to be clientfocused in everything we do,” architect Max Windmiller says. “We’re not trying to come up with a ‘signature’ look,” particularly when working within the confines of a remodel and inheriting a lot of the goodness that’s already in the bones.
“It was a nice house before. But now, it has impact,” Jacobson says. The front entry and porch were completely reimagined. The team added a full bluestone portico, which connects to Thaler’s home office. There’s direct access to it via French doors that were swapped in for the original bay window. “It’s a little thing, but it makes a huge difference,” she says, admiring that she feels more connected to the outdoors during her busiest moments of work.
Once inside, one of the largest impacts is immediately on display. The team removed a staircase that once cut through the main living space—a
significant structural change. Before, the room lacked flow, and it was difficult to determine furniture placement due to its choppy layout. Now, the heart of the home is just that—centralized by the focal point of a Heat & Glo gas fireplace and finished with a warm mix of materials, all balanced by wide views of Lake Minnetonka. Thaler had always envisioned a white enameled ceiling for the space, but interior designer Althea Sadowski knew just which levers to pull to bring the property into a more modern cottage feel from its outdated lake
house aesthetic. Enter: a wood-paneled ceiling with a custom “cashew” stain to warm up all the white. Its stain is somewhat translucent, highlighting the natural wood grain patterns underneath. “The architectural angles in the great room are so grand and fun,” says Windmiller, who notes that the mix of materials gives them definition and balance.
The secondary impact reveals itself as you move through the great room, where the renovated kitchen and new four-season porch connect for a wide-open invitation to the outside.
The porch is a smaller area but boasts huge views of the lake. Marvin Elevate energy-efficient windows maintain a “green standard” and are collapsible, protecting the porch in winter months and opening up when it’s more temperate. Natural light now floods the interiors, enhancing the airy, open feel. The kitchen received a high-end refresh with a carefully curated palette, from dark and moody Carrara marble countertops to pale, coastal blue cabinetry—a simple paint refresh on the custom cabinets Jacobson’s team built decades
ago. Another detail was updating the two-tiered island to one continuous surface. The team took care to preserve the island range, but its leveling-out provides a sleeker feel and more functionality. “When my [middle] son sat down at the new counter, he said, ‘It feels like home— but better,’” Thaler says In the past, her kids’ needs influenced a lot of the functionality. Now with her partner Bruce Sohns and the kids in more of a drop-by dynamic, Thaler is able to repurpose some of those spaces. The lower level, once dominated by storage
solutions for hockey gear, was transformed into a sophisticated hangout space. A concrete-floor storage room at the base of the stairs is now a destination: a beautiful wine cellar complete with glass doors and PetraSlate travertine tile. Just down the steps from the kitchen, it’s easy to pop down and grab a couple of bottles while hosting, and it also serves as a stunning focal point from the top of the staircase. The remainder of the lower level had been finished; “It simply lacked direction,” Jacobson says. The team helped define the livable area with
a linear fireplace, a dining nook with a built-in bench and a wet bar featuring a contemporary mix of built-in cabinetry and open shelving. “They were fabulous at taking care of everything right through the end,” Thaler says of her experience with Lake Country Builders. “Homebuilding can be complex, but the process and collaboration doesn’t have to be,” Jacobson says.
Lake Country Builders, 339 2nd St., Excelsior; 952.474.7121; lakecountrybuilders.com
Woodcarver’s work embraces a sense of enchanting timelessness.
Written by Renée Stewart-Hester — Photos by Chris Emeott
IN THE DETAILS
Consider the possibilities when a school fieldtrip ignites and inspires a student’s imagination. When he was a child, Erik Wyckoff’s interest in wood carving was piqued while touring historic homes, including St. Paul’s James J. Hill House. “I was fascinated by the carved mantels, doors and stairs,” he says. “My parents loved history and revered traditional craftsmen like carpenters and boatbuilders, so my interest was encouraged.”
As a professional woodcarver, one can see Wyckoff’s handiwork not only in the Lake Minnetonka area, but throughout the state and country. For the last 28
years, he’s been working full time out of his Minneapolis workshop, creating oneof-a-kind elements that speak to clients’ décor aesthetics, familial heritage, unique interests and even marital love.
In order to develop his craft, Wyckoff studied with local master carver Konstantinos Papadakis, who specializes in Greek Orthodox churches. “Konstantinos learned from a line of teachers, stretching back to antiquity,” he says. “I would not have been able to succeed as a professional woodcarver without all I learned from him.” (Discover more at artisticwoodcarvingstudio.com.)
Left: The fireplace elements for a home on Breezy Point Road in Woodland, illustrate some of the homeowners’ special interests, and Erik Wyckoff was able to bring their vision to life through his work. “The design was significantly influenced by the clients’ extensive travels and philanthropy to many African villages,” says Jason Kruell, vice president with Charles Cudd Co. “Erik’s design allowed them to express their commitment and involvement in those communities.”
THE CRAFTSMAN
Introductions can be everything. The team at Wayzata’s Murphy & Co. Design introduced Steve and Susan Rudolph of Orono to the exquisite work of Erick Wyckoff. “Erik carved eight individually unique [willow] corbels for our front entry gallery,” Steve Rudolph says. “The corbel feature was used as a means to highlight the groin vault ceiling and tie it into the wall below. It fits well with the style of the house and matches similar design features elsewhere.”
Behind every great design element is an idea or inspiration. “We were completing a remodel and addition on a 1929 Spanish Revival home,” Steve says. “Therefore, our goal was to match the new materials seamlessly with the existing architectural details throughout the original house. In that 1920s–1930s era, every detail had to be completed by hand by artisan tradesmen who spent a lifetime honing their skills. I don’t think there was much in the way of automation in construction or design work at that time, so we were basically looking for someone who could similarly create this sort of detail and replicate the one-of-a-kind, handmade appearance.”
Enter the craftsman—Wyckoff. “The detailing on the corbels Erik created drew on the classic Spanish Revival gothic arches that existed elsewhere in the original home,” Steve says. “This was a very effective way to help keep the feeling of the home consistent from one end to the other (from the old to the new). Most people that come into our new front entry do not perceive that it was not part of the original home in 1929.”
True to Wyckoff’s attention to stunning detail, he also carved a small, discrete first letter initial of each of the family member’s names into the four corner corbels. “This was just another great individualized touch and a way to leave our mark on the history of the house,” Steve says.
Erik Wyckoff
Erik Wyckoff delves into research for his projects. “The historic decorative arts from medieval churches to French tapestries provide a vast resource to me for inspiration,” he says. “Creating carvings that are correct to a historic style adds a sense of timelessness and permanence to a home.”
“In our home, I think it feels both high end but also very relaxed and comfortable. The carvings just beg to be touched.”
Steve Rudolph, homeowner
The depth of what Papadakis shared with Wyckoff flows with artistic, historical and practical knowledge. “He taught me how to hold the tools, how to carve efficiently [and] how to push the curved chisels, called gouges, through the wood, both with my hands and using a small mallet,” Wyckoff says. He also learned how to carve birds, flowers, grapes and the scrolling acanthus leaf, which Wyckoff says is the foundation of every decorative carving style throughout history. “This foundation has allowed me to design and carve a wide range of projects from Italian-style wine cellar doors
and French mantels to Black Forest-style mantels for rustic cabins,” he says.
Some of Wyckoff’s other projects include a carved paneled study, which was inspired by spaces in the Minnesota State Capitol. (That project is included in 2013’s Great Houses of Summit Avenue and the Hill District.) “The room was carved in the Renaissance-Revival style and featured loons, dear and beavers hidden amidst the scrolling leaves,” he says. The artist also points to the replication of the missing wood carvings for the restoration of the Donaldson Mansion on Mount Curve in Minneapolis’ Kenwood
Carver Erik Wyckoff says he doesn’t have a carving style.
“Sometimes, I joke and call myself All Style Geppetto,” he says, referencing the character in Carlo Collodi’s Italian novel The Adventures of Pinocchio (1883).
“It is rewarding to learn and improve at a variety of styles from Italian Renaissance to rustic. I try to make beautiful wood carvings that have charm and character.”
The stunning front doors for a home on Lake Minnetonka’s Halstead Bay provide a unique focal point to the exterior of the home. “This unique design adds another level of interest and customization to the home’s exterior. It also created a flow as it carries outdoor elements to the interior, creating a cohesive design overall,” says Jason Kruell, vice president of Charles Cudd Co., which has worked with Erik Wyckoff for over 10 years.
neighborhood. Another project in Medina features a French-style relief carving over a door, featuring the unique tools and symbols of the owner’s industrial empire.
While it can be difficult for an artist to identify a favorite piece or project, Wyckoff is especially appreciative of work he did on doors and panels, based on France’s Château de Chambord, for a Maplewood home’s wine cellar. “The owner loved both the look and history of the chateau and wished to be immersed in France when inside his cellar and tasting room,” he says. Work also included a
Photo: Erik Wyckoff
bar top under glass, carved with mythical beasts and foliage. “I conceived of the bar top as a cabinet of curiosities that would be a conversation starter—much like the natural science collections of a 19th century gentleman,” he says. Perhaps for more sentimental reasons, Wyckoff highlights work for an older couple, which featured a carved panel with vines and a pair of cardinals. “Because cardinals mate for life, they have always been a totem for the owners,” he says.
Like any custom work, Wyckoff receives assorted requests from clients, but most fall within the traditions of Old World decorative art, he says, like animals, flowers and scroll work, for example. “It is my job to make sure a request is researched for historical accuracy and tastefully integrated into the architecture and interior design,” he says. “I am often part of a team with one or more design professionals. Because the interior designers have the big picture in mind, I make sure they approve of my designs as well as the owner.”
With so much time given to research, planning and creating, one might assume it can be difficult for an artist to watch work depart from the workshop or studio. “I love the design and carving activity,” Wyckoff says. “I try to enjoy each working minute for what it is. I try to think of the owners, enjoying my work while I am creating it. It makes me very happy knowing that my creations are in loving homes. Many kind people have sent me handwritten notes, thanking me and describing the pleasure my work brings them every day. I never imagined I could be so lucky.”
Erik Wyckoff, 612.203.7562; erik@erikwyckoff.com; erickwyckoff.com @erikthewoodcarver
Murphy & Co. Design, 235 Lake St. E. Suite 301, Wayzata; 612.470.5511; murphycodesign.com @murphycodesign
Charles Cudd Co., 15050 23rd Ave. N., Plymouth; 612.333.8020; charlescudd.com
Charles Cudd Co - MN Custom Home Designer & Builder @charlescuddco
Minnesota summers can be unpredictable–your
A Bonfe tune-up ensures your system runs efficiently, helps prevent breakdowns, and keeps your home cool when it matters most.
Our professional technicians know their craft, respect your home, and make maintenance easy. Because your comfort is our family’s priority.
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ON THE HORIZON
Inside an airy cottage home by Boyer Building built for a tight-knit family—now, and for the future.
After four years of scanning listings, walking properties and imagining what could be, Marc and Wendy Terris finally found it: a lakeside lot tucked at the end of a quiet road. The dream spot. A place that would become their forever home, where coffee on the porch would start the mornings and cocktails on the boat would cap off the evenings. This type of luxurious, yet low-key, approach to living was a perfect fit for the team at Boyer Building Corporation. “We tend to be a bit old school,” shares project manager Tim Forsberg, who also accounted for how the house could flex and grow as the family’s needs change. “We think outside of what’s trendy and build a house that’s as beautiful and functional now as it will be in the future.” They tapped James McNeal Architecture & Design (JMAD) with a simple plan: keep it open, keep it functional and keep it all about the lake.
“The biggest driver [for us] is how the house will sit on the lot,” Forsberg says of the L-shape layout, intentionally designed to accommodate both the setbacks and capitalize on the Lake Minnewashta views. Just south of Lake Minnetonka, it boasts all the vistas without the bustle, offering a slower-paced shoreline where the Terris family can truly kick back and relax. At the heart of it all is the great room and kitchen, where the family spends their time when not outdoors. “We just said, ‘Let’s keep it wide open,’” they recall. It’s the ultimate hangout space, sitting artfully underneath a vaulted ceiling highlighting hand-crafted pine beams and framed by a modern catwalk. The architecture makes a statement not only within the house but from
the exterior, featuring a gable roof met with cedar shingles that evoke a classic cottage feel. Details like wide-plank oak floors and a shiplap/limestone fireplace surround add to the cozy coastal aesthetic while maintaining a certain Minnesotan sensibility.
The design team enhanced the open, airy floorplan with a unique behind-thescenes powerhouse that keeps the space pristine: a scullery kitchen/butler’s pantry. Though not a specific client request, they were delighted with JMAD’s interpretation of their needs and with Boyer Building for bringing it to fruition. The team’s upfront attention to detail ensured that the annexed space felt just as connected to the floor plan as any other room in the house, largely due to its high degree of functionality and flow. When
the Terris’ are out on the terrace (how apropos!), the scullery is just a few steps from the grill, so Marc can easily prepare all the food for a family meal when all four kids are home. The scullery also connects to the garage, making it easy for groceries to go straight from the trunk to the pantry. “It’s the little things we knew we wanted but relied on [John] Boyer to make the call based on his 40 years of expertise,” the homeowners say. Even the sink is hidden away in the scullery, making the striking sapphire kitchen island an intentionally crafted gathering space rather than a multipurpose prep area.
Designed with longevity in mind, the primary bedroom sits on the main level, while the catwalk upstairs separates the girls’ “wing” from the boys. But there’s another landing page that’s a perfect fit
for everyone—a recreation room above the garage. It’s outfitted with a sprawling sectional and a lot of “run around” room, flanked by a partitioned bunk room— ideal for a continually growing family— and a cozy library with floor-to-ceiling bookcases that offer a moment of respite among the lively household. (Complete with their golden retriever, always lovingly underfoot.)
But that’s not the only retreat-worthy space. A porch off the kitchen is as comfortable during milder months as it is in the middle of winter, all thanks to the team’s thoughtful approach. Due to the house’s proximity to the water, a basement was not a viable option, so the team weather-proofed the porch, allowing for floor-to-ceiling screens to be easily swapped for glass when temperatures drop. It also includes hidden ceiling heaters and a classic wood-burning fireplace for extra warmth when desired. And when in search of a true Northern
warm-up, the sauna is just a saunter down near the dock.
“We truly value being able to collaborate with good people,” says Forsberg of both the clients and the JMAD team. They’re already becoming particularly well-versed with the Lake Minnewashta shoreline, helping set the tone for the level of homes that dot the water. This is where that “old school” approach can be not only appreciated from the exterior but felt within the homes as the neighborhoods continue to grow. With their elite custom homebuilding already well established, it’s the relationship building that sets Boyer apart from any beautiful home. The process is beautiful, too—it’s no wonder Boyer is a Best of Lake Minnetonka 2024 winner and 2025 finalist.
Boyer Building Corporation, 3435 County Road 101, Minnetonka; 952.475.2097; boyerbuilding.com
Deephaven home leans into Scandinavian architecture and design.
MYSA HUS
Written
by Emily Gedde — Photos by Chris Emeott
If anyone can bring a home’s philosophical design to life, it’s Mark Williams. Full of energy and passion, the owner of Mark D. Williams Custom Homes Inc. in Excelsior, has the irrepressible drive to turn an idea into a reality. So, when he was inspired to build a home based on a philosophy, rather than a client’s specific needs or wants, Williams had confidence he could make it happen. “I’m really good at getting people excited,” he says. “I’m more jacked on this than I have been on anything in a while. I’m an elevated-energy person anyway, but I’m revved up.”
The proposed home, Mysa Hus, translates from Swedish into English as cozy house, but the meaning of mysa carries so much more: being relaxed, taking time away from stresses of life, spending time with friends and being in the moment—all things that the home on 20465 Linwood Road in Deephaven (Cottagewood) is being designed to embrace. In theory, Scandinavian-leaning homes adopt a clean, natural and uncluttered sensibility while offering the essence of warmth and inviting vibes.
Williams was inspired to replicate those characteristics after visiting Iceland and Norway in 2013. The homes in those countries were minimalistic, organic and earthy—just what Williams wanted his company to emulate in Minnesota. “We’re going to create a philosophy outline, using natural materials like wood, natural light, wool and stone,” he says of the project. “I love that kind of sparse design.”
But a project such as this isn’t developed by one person. With more than two decades of creating quality, custom homes under his belt, Williams is well-established in the industry. Given his solid reputation that includes being named Builder of the Year by Housing First Minnesota in 2021, he didn’t struggle getting others on board with this idea. “Once I get all in, I see how many other people I can get on board, and if enough people do so, I know it must be
THE FOUNDATION
Mark Williams has owned Mark D. Williams Custom Homes Inc. since 2004. Growing up in Chaska, Williams says he learned how to run a business from his father, David Williams, a builder, and learned how to treat people from his mother, Deb Williams, an interior designer.
Williams says the driving tenet of his business centers on caring about clients and making sure they are proud of their homes. “When I think of the homes that have resonated with people over the last 20 years, my favorite compliment is people saying they’re not sure what it is about our homes, but the homes feel different,” he says. “We care about what we do and about our craft. I’d like to think that comes out in our work.”
a good idea,” he says. “That was the case with this philosophy.”
Karl Adelbert of KA Designs, Minneapolis, will serve as the architect on the project, and Oho Interiors, St. Paul, will cover interior design. “I’m not just telling this team what to do; I’m empowering them to get on board with this philosophy and explore their creativity,” Williams says. Groundbreaking for the home is expected this spring, with project completion targeted for 2026.
There is a lot of work to be done between now and then, and Williams says the intention is to create a new brand around the philosophy and launch a website to help generate
additional excitement. “We’re not the first ones to do something based on a philosophy,” he says. “But if this is successful, I could see it becoming a trend.”
Williams says the Deephaven abode will incorporate biophilic design, a buzz term gaining popularity, meaning connecting homeowners to nature using natural resources. In addition, the concept offers benefits to health and the environment by utilizing green products. “Scandinavian countries try to build things that last generationally, and that’s the idea for this, too,” he says.
Given the amount of natural light featured in the house, the space will feel larger than it
Photo:
Mark
D. Williams Custom Homes Inc.
“We’re also partnering with a consultant specializing in home health, ensuring the materials and systems we use are not only environmentally friendly, but also safe and healthy for the people living in the home. It’s a holistic approach—what you touch, what you breathe, and how it all impacts daily living.”
presents on blueprints. “I’d rather it be smaller and nicer than bigger with wasted space,” Williams says. “I don’t see a lot of clutter in this house, and the cabinetry and interior design will be very intentional.” To note: The landscaping will dovetail with the overall philosophy, incorporating Norway pines and focusing on the less-is-more adage.
The price point for the home has yet to be determined, but savvy property buyers and sellers might be able to ballpark a figure, knowing that the two-level house will run about 4,000 square feet. As the project takes physical shape, Williams is hopeful that potential buyers are inspired
MARK WILLIAMS
Rendering: Mark D. Williams
Custom Homes Inc.
early on. “I think a home, if done correctly, should have parts of everybody [on the team], and I hope that buyers see that with this home,” he says. “One of the reasons our homes are so different is they all have different ingredients, and we’re constantly evolving. I’m really excited about this evolution.”
Mark D. Williams Custom Homes Inc., 332 Second St., Excelsior; mdwilliamshomes.com
Mark D Williams Custom Homes Inc. @markdwilliams_customhomes
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Mark D Williams Custom Homes
This rendering of a completed look of the home and grounds illustrates the vision for Mysa Hus
HOME & GARDEN Collection
Photo: Highmark Builders
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At Highmark Builders, we don’t just build homes, we create your dream space. Specializing in custom luxury homes and remodels, we take pride in the Highmark Difference— an integrated design/build process for your one-of-a-kind, custom luxury home that’s all about bringing your unique vision to life. From start to finish, we’re focused on making sure we exceed your expectations. Our team’s experience and commitment to quality ensure your home is built just the way you want it. It’s more than just craftsmanship; it’s about trust. At Highmark, we build lasting relationships—earning your family’s trust every step of the way.
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THE FINE ART OF CREATING EXCEPTIONAL EXTERIORS
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CUSTOM ACCESSIBILITY, ORGANIZATION AND STORAGE SOLUTIONS FOR EXISTING CABINETS AND PANTRIES
Art of Drawers transforms homes by creating joyful, inspirational experiences through beautifully designed and expertly crafted custom solutions. Our goal is to enhance the way you live by maximizing space, improving organization and elevating functionality in your kitchen, bathrooms and pantry. We specialize in customized drawers, shelves and cabinet solutions that seamlessly blend style and practicality. With a focus on quality craftsmanship and thoughtful design, we help homeowners rediscover the beauty and efficiency of these essential spaces— bringing convenience, accessibility and everyday joy to their lives.
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Trust our dedicated craftsmen to customize a pool, plunge pool, swim spa or fountain to elevate your outdoor space to an oasis. We build the highest-quality pools in Minnesota and help our customers create stand-out designs with sun shelves, spas, water features, lighting and more. Call us today to design your backyard dream.
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What are the three most important questions homeowners should ask a roofer when considering a roof replacement?
1. Start by asking your contractor about the different roofing materials available. Options such as asphalt, cedar, slate or synthetic materials vary in lifespan, cost and maintenance requirements. Understanding these factors will help you make a decision that aligns with your needs and budget.
2. Since a roof is a significant investment, choose one that you’ll love for years to come. Take the time to explore various styles and materials that interest you, and discuss their pros and cons with your roofing expert.
3. Be sure to review the product warranty carefully. A strong warranty offers long-term protection, ensuring that you’re covered in case any issues arise after installation.
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What are simple ways to stretch your remodel dollars?
It’s all about smart spending.
1. Prioritize Key Upgrades: Invest in high-impact areas like cabinetry, countertops and fixtures that will boost both style and functionality. These upgrades provide the best return on investment.
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Why is white oak trendy?
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TASTEMAKERS
It’s Go Time
Plan Mother’s Day with sweet and savory brunch specialties.
Written by Madeline Kopiecki and Renée Stewart-Hester
This has to rank right up there on the special occasion stress meter: It’s the eve or day of Mother’s Day. Frantic dialing or online booking attempts ensue, but, alas, there’s not a dining reservation to be had. Now what? Prepare a special meal at home? That’s always a great option, but if cooking isn’t in the cards (and you better have purchased a Mother’s Day card by then!), dining out can be the pièce de résistance of a day of celebration and, hopefully, relaxation.
While we know it’s over a month out from Mother’s Day (May 11), now is the time to book reservations. If services or sleeping in is on the docket for the morning, consider brunch. Need ideas? From decadent buffets to special menus, local restaurants know how to dial things up for one of the busiest brunch days of the year.
With a name like Benedict’s, does it
Photo: Chris Emeott
Great food is such a cornerstone to any celebration, and Wayzata’s ninetwentyfive Mother’s Day brunch has plenty of options for more sophisticated palates to, well, those who have yet to expand their culinary tastes (aka: kids!).
come as any surprise that eggs Benedict is a star on the menu at this Wayzata eatery? If one of the eight styles of Bennies isn’t your speed, consider a trio of Strawberry Nutella Pancakes or Avocado Toast served up on sourdough toast with touches of radish and cilantro. For a celebratory sip, consider a Mimosa Flight, complete with freshly squeezed grapefruit, orange, pomegranate and white peach juices. Kid-approved selections include the Chocolate and Blueberry Pancakes as well as the Wagyu Cheeseburger. Prices vary; benedicts.com
Seafood takes center stage at Minnetonka’s BLVD Kitchen & Bar’s Mother’s Day buffet. Start off at the seafood tower—complete with an ice sculpture—featuring crab legs, lobster rolls and oysters, oh my! For main options, consider rich Crab Cake Benedict, Grilled Salmon, and Lobster Mac and Cheese. There’s also classic brunch fare, including bacon, cheesy hash browns, eggs and
assorted desserts. Kid-friendly items include plain mac and cheese, chicken tenders and French toast. Plus, moms get a complimentary Mimosa. Price: $64.95 for adults, $19.95 for ages 5–12 and free for kids under age 5; blvdkitchen.com
Hazelwood Food + Drink in Tonka Bay is zhuzhing up its classic brunch menu with a few extra things for mom and company. Crowd favorites like the Pull-Apart Monkey Bread with Pecan Praline Sauce and Prime Rib Hash with beef and poached eggs will still be in the mix. But, if you’re looking for an extra oomph, there will also be Jumbo Crab Cakes, specialty eggs Benedict and decadent Strawberries and Cream French Toast. Kids can select from breakfast items like pancakes and scrambled eggs, plus the usual crowd pleasers—burgers, chicken fingers and pizza. Hazelwood Food + Drink is also toasting mothers with a complimentary Mimosa. Prices vary; hazelwoodfoodanddrink.com
It’s all about the action at ninetwentyfive in Wayzata during its Mother’s Day brunch buffet. Dress up a waffle with an assortment of sweet accoutrements, including maple syrup, mixed berries, vanilla whipped cream and more, at the waffle station, or request the perfect portion of meat at the chef carving station. Before jumping into the main course, stop by the fresh salad offerings, or take your pick of canapés and charcuterie spreads. Brunch menu favorites, including Southern Eggs Benedict with pulled pork and chipotle-hollandaise sauce, and classic Biscuits and Gravy will also be in attendance. The Hotel Landing’s ninetwentyfive tries its best to please the choosey eater set; ask servers for accommodations. $70 for adults, $35 for kids under 12 and free for kids 5 years and younger; thehotellanding.com
Plymouth’s Original Pancake House (OPH) is keeping things sweet on Mother’s Day with a lineup of specials,
including Carrot Cake, Key Lime Crêpes and waffles topped with bananas, Nutella and strawberries. For something on the savory side, try the specialty Steak Breakfast Burrito or the crowd-pleasing Santa Fe Omelette. Kid’s favorites include the Chocolate Chip and Cinnamon Roll pancakes. Brunch-goers can also expect a little extra space thanks to OPH’s recent remodel, but it is still recommended to join the online waiting list. Prices vary; ophmn.com
For another dining option, visit lakeminnetonkamag.com to read about Heather’s, which opened its Eden Prairie Road location in the fall. Owner Heather Asbury describes her restaurant as bright, fresh and approachable. Dishes are freshly made from scratch, and the menu offers a variety of rotating options. “I like to change things up with my menu often,” she says. “It gives people a reason to come back.”
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REPURPOSE PROSE
Book sale gives printed materials another life.
For readers—voracious or otherwise—the biannual book sale hosted by Wayzata Friends of the Library is an ideal event. And for those who embrace stacks of books as décor elements, here’s your chance to procure some lovely items for spaces that require a little literaryinspired vignette.
The spring event is planned for 9 a.m.–4 p.m. April 26 and noon–3 p.m. April 27 for the $5 bag sale at the Wayzata City chambers room, 600 Rice St. E.
With April 22’s Earth Day, it’s an ideal month for the sale, providing an oppor-
tunity to keep used books out of landfills and into the hands of new users. “One book can be shared so many times with so many people—the physical book itself and the ideas and stories and information within,” says Liz Blaufuss with the Wayzata Friends of the Library. “The best part of the book sale is seeing people walk out with bags and bags of books … We love keeping books out of the recycling bin and putting them into the hands of readers who will make the most of them.”
About 85 percent of the books are donated; the remaining are library dis-
cards. “The donated books are interesting, in great condition and so many are best-sellers,” Blaufuss says. “We also have a separate section for vintage books. Those are the best—beautiful covers, decorated spines and so many classics. We also have beautiful coffee table art and travel books for a couple of bucks.” —Renée Stewart-Hester
For additional information, visit hclib.org, or call 612.543.6150.
Photos: Chris Emeott
Compiled by Ellie Heyerdahl and Emma Souza
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Participate in an egg hunt, face painting, games, crafts, pictures with the Easter Bunny and more. This is an indoor/outdoor event. Ages 1–9. $12. 10–11:30 a.m. Minnetonka Community Center, 14600 Minnetonka Blvd., Minnetonka; 952.939.8390; minnetonkamn.gov
APRIL 5
LOCAL EVENTS
04.10
Education in the Evening
Join the Minnetonka Rotary Club in welcoming Margo Bassett for a discussion about supporting teachers as parents and fellow community members. All ages. Free. 5–6 p.m. Minnetonka Marsh, 15000 Minnetonka Blvd., Minnetonka; 952.908.7000
04.26
Sensory Friendly Open House
The Minnetonka Fire Department hosts a sensory-friendly open house without sirens or lights. All ages. Free. 10 a.m.–1 p.m. Fire Station 1, 14550 Minnetonka Blvd., Minnetonka; 952.939.8598; minnetonkamn.gov
04.26
Anything Goes
Enjoy Minnetonka Theatre’s performance of Anything Goes by P.G. Woodhouse and Guy Bolton. Adults and mature youth. Youth $15, Seniors (65 and older) $23, Adults $26. 7:30 p.m. Minnetonka Theatre, 18285 Highway 7, Minnetonka; 952.401.5898; minnetonkatheatre.com
04.27
Chamber Orchestra Concert
Treat yourself to a performance from the Minnetonka Chamber Orchestra at its spring concert. All ages. Free. 3 p.m.–4:30 p.m. Minnetonka Community Center 14600 Minnetonka Blvd., Minnetonka; 952.401.5954; musicassociation.org
AREA EVENTS
04.02–04.13
International Film Festival
The 44th annual Minneapolis St. Paul International Film Festival returns to The Main Cinema and other venues, showcasing more than 200 films from around the world. Parties, panels, filmmakers and special guests are also part of this celebration. All ages. Prices vary. Times vary. Venues vary. 612.395.4444; mspfilm.org
04.08–04.13
Mean Girls
From writer Tina Fey comes Mean Girls, a Broadway adaptation of the popular movie. All ages. Prices vary. Times vary. Ordway, 345 Washington St., St. Paul; 651.224.4222; ordway.org
04.10
Reading of The Great Gatsby
The Minnesota Historical Society and the Friends of the St. Paul Library honor F. Scott Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby on its 100th anniversary with a live reading of the novel, from start to finish. All ages. Free. 1:30–7:30 p.m. The Minnesota History Center, 345 W. Kellogg Blvd., St. Paul; 651.222.3242; thefriends.org
04.26
RITE Day
With hands-on workshops, kids activities, information stations and free recycling, this is an event for folks who are Really Into The Earth. All ages. Free. 10 a.m.–1 p.m. Wildwood Elementary, 8698 75th St. N., Stillwater; 651.407.2018; communityed.mahtomedi.k12.mn.us
Features + Requirements
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Lens on Lake Minnetonka
Symmetry equates to beauty in winning image.
Christine Neff Kojetin’s photograph Deephaven Docks was taken on an uncharacteristically warm December day. “The docks were obviously empty, but the water was still open and completely still,” she says. “From a top-down shot, I liked the symmetry and the contrast between the dark water and the wooden planks of the dock.”
Engaging in drone and traditional photography serves as creative outlet for Neff Kojetin, and she has some preferred areas in and around the Lake Minnetonka area for photographic opportunities. “I most often focus in Deephaven, Minnetonka Yacht Club island, Wayzata and Excelsior. A bit further out, the [Minnesota] Landscape Arboretum is my ‘happy place,’” she says. —Renée Stewart-Hester
To view other Lens on Lake Minnetonka photo contest winners, visit lakeminnetonkamag.com.
Photographer: Christine Neff Kojetin
Title: Deephaven Docks
Equipment: DJI Mavic Air 2 drone
Location: Deephaven Beach, St. Louis Bay, Deephaven
Category: Abstract Award: First Place
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