Focal Point

A Minnesota couple was all set to go, ready to build their dream retreat on the banks of Lake Minnetonka. Then they came across another lot for sale, a very private point of land extending out into Halsted’s Bay on the lake’s westernmost side. The land was undeveloped, and the new owners felt it would be exciting to design a home on a blank slate and make it their own.

“The clients called us and said, ‘Don’t be mad, but we found a different spot. Can we still make our plans work?’” recalls Kristine Anderson, design principal at PKA Architecture in Minneapolis. “I told them, ‘Never apologize; this is your home, and it should be exactly where you want it to be.’”

Anderson and Project Manager Tammy Angaran adeptly applied the existing plans to the new site, adjusting them to the property’s unique topography, constraints, and challenges. Ultimately, the locale allowed for a slightly longer and wider arrangement. The architects pushed and pulled the envelope to create an intimate connection between interior living and exterior beauty. “Our clients really wanted to maximize views from all angles,” says the architect. 

The firm delivered: “We can see the lake from all sides,” asserts the client. “We absolutely love every room and find ways to use all three floors. On nice days, we’re usually in the screened-in patio, which feels like you’re floating on the lake.”

From the entry court, the house welcomes visitors with two stories marked by steep gables and a front porch. Where views are the most vivid, the structure tumbles down a steep grade toward the lake, revealing a walkout lower level. Cedar shingles and a stone veneer foundation create a cottage vibe, while the dark bronze cladding on the Marvin windows lends a more modern feel. 

In fact, PKA Architecture often uses Marvin windows due to their wide variety of cataloged sizes, particularly on the larger end. “Their windows and doors have thin dividers that create a more minimalist profile compared to others on the market,” notes Anderson. For this project, triple glazing withstands Minnesota’s long winters and weather-related elements.

Inside, the clients gravitated toward a California look—also known as laid-back sophistication—with natural materials and soft, organic colors (the husband is from the Golden State and they spend a lot of time there). “They wanted it to feel casual to fit the way they live,” says Angaran. Corona Del Mar-based Brooke Wagner Design kept the interiors true to this vision. 

“This house is a great mix of traditional elements punctuated by key modern moments,” describes Anderson of the overall architecture, inside and out. The centered entry leads directly into a double-height living room, where views of the lake take center stage. Here, a horizontal gas fireplace contrasts with the soaring space, punctuated by airy yet dramatic light fixtures. Two mirror-image sectionals provide comfortable seating in this view-oriented space. 

To the left of the central living room is the primary bedroom suite; to the right is the kitchen, scullery, and mudroom. Upstairs, two guest bedroom suites and a bunk room host visiting family and friends. Perched next to the hallway “bridge” stretching over the great room is a bonus second family room that doubles as a home office.

The harmonization of traditional and modern styles continues in the kitchen, where walls of windows line the workspaces and informal dining area. “They were adamant that they would not use a formal dining room,” notes Angaran. A steel-framed glass window from Italy, situated behind the Wolf Range, ramps up the room’s transparency to the landscape to yet another level.

A prevalence of drawer pullouts versus more traditional doors makes the rift-cut white oak cabinetry feel more like furniture. Chef-approved and entertaining-friendly appliances include a Sub-Zero 36” Designer Series Refrigerator/Freezer, a Wolf 48” Gas Range, a Wolf 30” Double Electric Wall Oven, a Wolf 24” Transitional Drawer Microwave, and a Cove 24” Dishwasher.

“This is one of my favorite spots in the house,” says Angaran of the kitchen. “It’s not remotely pretentious. It’s just a beautiful space surrounded by nature.” 

PKA infused the layout with even more cooking and hosting functionality by adding a scullery lined with lake-facing views. Beaded cabinetry in a soft gray-blue finish offers ample storage and features a Sub-Zero 36” Designer Series Refrigerator/Freezer combo. Just before the scullery entrance is a built-in bar with a 24” Sub-Zero Wine Storage Unit.

The interior is inviting—a key adjective guiding the project from the outset—and designed to be welcoming, regardless of the guest count.

The property is equally charming outside, thanks to an outdoor kitchen/dining area that includes a built-in 36” Wolf Outdoor Gas Grill, as well as a stone patio for lounging. Further afield, a fire pit is nestled into the shore, and zigzagging stone steps lead down to the boathouse and dock. 

But one of the family’s favorite hangout spots is the lower level, where they and their guests can watch TV, use the golf simulator, play pool, or start a shuffleboard match. A built-in bar features a Sub-Zero Undercounter Beverage Center, Refrigerator Drawers, and an Undercounter Wine Storage Unit, keeping drinks and snacks within easy reach. “It’s like a playground for adults,” says Angaran.

From top to bottom, the finished house—seemingly destined for this particular point of land—captures the very essence of lakeside living.