RUSTIC, MEET MODERN

Design: Tays & Co.

Photography: Spacecrafting Photography

Text: Andrea Danelak

Laura Tays of Tays & Co Design Studios faced a unique ask when designing a new cabin: balance traditional rustic and modern looks for an inviting, retreat-like feel. We’re taking a look at the Minnesota lakefront property that brings the outdoors in—with stunning results.

Picture yourself in the early morning, the rising sun peeking out above the tops of the trees. Steaming cup of coffee in hand, you gaze out the window to the expansive lake in front of you, its waves gently crashing against the shore. Thanks to Tays & Co. Design Studios, that’s the reality for one couple, whose collective dream was brought to life by founder and principal designer Laura Tays.

The couple sought to retire to their lakefront property after they made the space their own. “This is their legacy property—their home away from home now that the husband has retired,” says Tays.

Located on a peninsula in Nisswa, Minnesota and surrounded by stunning waterfront views, the property marks a space where the entire family can gather, incorporating the landscape and surrounding elements wherever possible. Next to the main cabin is a property for the couple’s adult children, along with a rambler remodeled as a rental property and a new bar.

“The couple for whom we designed the cabin wanted it to feel like a lake cabin—without getting too literal,” says Tays. “The space is very textural, bringing the outdoors in. It’s warm and cozy but not too busy, with a lot of natural elements throughout the entire house.”

After tearing down the original structure, the owners intended to rebuild to their specific vision on the same lot. Tays took on the challenge of creating a design that was fresh, without feeling like a brand-new home. “A lot of thought went into all of the different elements to make the home feel like it’s been lived in,” she says.

Collaboration with the homeowners marked an integral part of the design process and its ultimate success. The husband-and-wife duo had different visions in terms of what they wanted to see in the space, so Tays kept the lines of communication open to ensure everyone was on the same page.

Rich textures, classic patterns, and natural organic elements combine to add a warm, inviting, lived-in look to this new build.

“The husband’s original idea was a literal cabin—very rustic—but his wife wanted it to feel a bit more modern. It was really two different styles getting married,” says Tays. “I think that’s what makes the home really unique. It’s also what brought the design to a whole new level when it was all put together.”

Tays incorporated her signature look into the design, integrating wood and stone elements to make the home feel lived-in and warm. The limestone-wrapped pantry in the kitchen—emulating a stone cave that has stood for years, the house simply built around it—is one of her personal favorites. “I always try to design in a way that keeps things fresh but still timeless, which won’t be dated in a few years,” she says. “I lean into design elements that will remain beautiful for years.”

She also stuck to neutral tones and rich textured elements to add to the overall warmth and prevent the home from feeling too stark. “We typically go for organic, natural looks and when you walk into a home, you can just feel it. It feels very elevated and inviting,” she says. “That’s what many people have gravitated toward in recent years—that fresh, light, airy feeling that is also warm and inviting.”

The end result sees the natural elements and textures complement each other for a one-of-a-kind feel. “Everywhere you turn, there’s something unique to see in each space, but it all flows from room to room.”

From the moment they enter the great room, guests are flooded with natural light and a sense of grandeur, thanks to the 10-foot ceilings and open concept design. Reclaimed wood is featured prominently through the home, lending to the organic feel. A striking feature staircase leads guests to a bonus loft upstairs, adorned with a shou sugi ban accent wall, a Japanese wood-burning technique that adds texture and depth. The home also boasts plenty of spots to cozy up with a book, including a sunroom and reading nooks.

While wall colors remain neutral, countertops, backsplash tile, and flooring offer plenty of personality.

While the design came together beautifully in the end, Tays encountered a few hurdles through the process. Attempting to incorporate the family’s wishes while staying within the property’s physical boundaries proved an interesting—but fun—challenge for the team.

“We had to stay within the same footprint, so there was a bit of struggle to make sure that we still included everything while following the size and capabilities of the space,” she says. Building a two-storey structure allowed for more square footage, which clocks in at just shy of 3,000 square feet. “It’s quite cozy when you’re inside,” adds Tays. “The tall ceilings make it feel bigger than it is.”

This marks Tays’ fifth time working with the same couple, who are thrilled with their new home away from home and are excited to build new memories with their family in the years to come.

“We put our whole hearts and souls into this property,” she says. “Throughout the process, I made sure that all parties were happy, and I feel most proud of that. In the end, the space was representative of both of them and their wishes.”

The two-storey home has plenty of bonus space, including an upstairs loft and sunny reading nooks.

Nothing says chic like rich wood cabinetry and deep stone countertops.