TRENDS 2024 - Ben Ganje + Partners

TRENDS

WHAT IS HOME?

Your home is more than a building or an address. It's where you experience life, family, connection and growth. Your home should be as exceptional as you are, and as you are going to be. From all of us at Ben Ganje + Partners we'd like to say hello, and say thank you to all of the families across the Twin Cities who trust us each and every day with the places they call home.

WORDS

Martha Dayton

Ben Ganje

Shawn Gilliam

Jordan Obinger

David Strand

PHOTOGRAPHY

Cover: Strand Design

Chad Holder

Dave Puente

Harriet Brasserie

Josh Grubbs

Laure Joliet

Love Big Live Small Photography

Rule Creative Co

Spacecrafting

Taylor Hall O’Brien

Jordan Obinger

Jordan Obinger

Nick Allen

Harry Wohl Edition Studios

MANIFESTO

Since 2013, this book has been a catalyst highlighting our local real estate market. Every year that we publish the book, our goal is to delve further into the world of luxury real estate, lifestyle and design; where brands of the tastemakers and trendsetters and personalized experiences converge. We explore cutting-edge technologies shaping tomorrow's interiors, the stylish trends redefining opulence, and the fusion of classic aesthetics with modern minimalism. Join us on a journey into a future where luxury is not just about extravagance but about creating spaces that reflect individuality, purpose, and a deep connection to our evolving world. Discover the most exclusive design concepts, the rising talent, and the practices that are defining the essence of luxury living in 2024. Welcome to the future of design, where opulence meets conscience, and where interiors are a canvas for dreams yet to be realized.

NOTHING COMPARES TO WHAT’S NEXT.

MEET THE REAL ESTATE MARKET MAKERS

MEET BEN

FAVORITE RESTAURANT

Billy Sushi

EXERCISE

Any yoga class at Lifetime

SATURDAY MORNING STARTS WITH A few shots of espresso from our tried and true

Breville Express Barista

TOP TRAVEL DESTINATION

Rosemary Beach in the panhandle of Florida

I SUPPORT AND LOVE

Alight Refugee Committee

LITTLE KNOWN FACT

I mainly drink decaf coffee

THE BIGGEST CHANGE I HOPE TO SEE IN 2024

A return for everyone to spend more time outside and screen free

MEET ERIN

FAVORITE RESTAURANT Porzana

EXERCISE Alpha Strength Lifetime

SATURDAY MORNING STARTS WITH A quick breakfast before taking our five year old, Blake, to hockey and three year old, Sophie, to gymnastics

TOP TRAVEL DESTINATION Greece

I SUPPORT AND LOVE Every Meal

LITTLE KNOWN FACT I was born and raised in North Dakota

THE BIGGEST CHANGE I HOPE TO SEE IN 2024 I hope that people start to regain a strong sense of optimism, trust and positivity in their lives

So is how we build them. Homes are personal.

Photo Credit: Spacecrafting

TRENDS

MAKING LIFE BEAUTIFUL, EASIER, AND MORE MEANINGFUL

Inside Martha Dayton's World of Design

MARTHA: As a designer, I’m inspired by every project my team and I work on, whether it’s at home in Minnesota or in another climate or culture with an entirely different set of design aesthetics. Thanks to years of experience, I’m lucky to be in a position to select projects with top-notch teams of architects and builders, not to mention wonderful clients. The best part of my career is that every project is different and I continue to learn something new every day.

Can you describe your design philosophy in a few words?

A: Good design never goes out of style. That’s why timelessness ranks as the absolute top priority for all of our work, and we apply it whether we go more classic or more contemporary. After that comes cohesiveness, followed by fun. Even if it’s just a bit, there’s a place for whimsy and surprise in every project.

Photo Credit: Laure Joliet

In your personal bio, you noted that your favorite room in your house is your closet. What makes it so special, and can you share any design tips for creating a dream closet?

A: My primary bedroom closet used to be small and dark, which is not surprising for a house built in 1892. Now it’s spacious enough for my husband and me to get ready at the same time, and it’s full of natural light from two existing windows. Without question, it’s my favorite room in the house. Storage for clothes, shoes, and accessories is smart and sophisticated, but I also made room for some of my most personal and cherished items, like family pictures and a silver brush set and a mirror that once belonged to my grandmother and my mom. And I always have a live orchid. That’s perhaps the secret to designing a dream closet —once you’ve squared away storage needs, add layers of personality and warmth.

What's the one design item or element that you consider a "must-have" in any interior project?

A: Art is an absolute must-have, and I encourage my clients to meet and even get to know the artist whenever possible, which is almost always the case if the artist is local. This is part of what my team and I bring to the table—making that introduction to the artist, oftentimes buying right from their studio. And when a client hears what a piece means to the artist, the piece turns into something more special and personal. It becomes part of a home’s story and ultimately your story. Beyond that, just for good measure, throw in wallpaper wherever you can!

Photo Credit: Spacecrafting

From left to right: Amber O'Brien, Martha Dayton, Kory Reckinger, Lauren Allis, Alex Loosigian, Debbie Rohrer.

How do you approach creating highly individualized designs that truly reflect your clients' tastes and style?

A: I honestly think highly individualized and distinctive designs are what we’re known for. When you look at our portfolio, the look and feel may be consistent, but each project reflects a client’s unique sense of style. So, while we design with cohesion, timelessness, and a certain elegance, our clients are driving the overall aesthetic. And that comes out through a series of conversations, digging into how you see yourself living in your spaces, your favorite and least favorite colors, whether you like pattern, what moods you want to evoke. Often we find it’s just as helpful to know what a client doesn’t want as what they want.

What are some key design trends or elements you're currently excited about or incorporating into your projects?

A: Across the board, we’re using bolder patterns, stronger colors, and richer textures. At the same time, there’s a trend toward warm, natural woods, so layering in those patterns and pops of colors as contrast—through exquisite wall coverings, high-gloss paints, or velvet-upholstered furniture pieces, for example—is exciting. It’s one of my favorite ways to create a look that’s distinctive and with just the right dash of sophistication.

“

Where do you see the relationship between client and interior designer going in the future?

A: Ninety percent of the product on the market today is available to everyone. We can all hunt it down and find a way to purchase it. But the role of an interior designer remains extremely relevant because we bring a depth of knowledge, valuable vendor relationships, and the skill to tie everything together. So while anybody can find a sofa, knowing whether it’s the right scale or color, whether it works with what you already have, or whether its fabric or finish will wear well with your kids and pets comes from working with a designer. Applying that level of expertise to every aspect of a project helps ensure a design you’ll love and appreciate for a long time.

Understanding my clients is key. I delve into their lifestyles, preferences, and aspirations. This empathy allows me to create designs that are not just beautiful but also deeply resonate with their personal narratives and day-to-day needs.

Traveling to different countries and experiencing other cultures is a crucial part of design inspiration. Could you share a destination in the world that inspires you and your designs? Or a place that you would like to visit, and why?

A: I love designing in places like Costa Rica, Mexico, and California. When you’re working in environments with that much sun, the colors and patterns in the fabrics and rugs can be bolder and brighter, and the results are absolutely stunning. As for a place I have yet to visit but am certain I’d love: Morocco. I know the colors, patterns, even the light fixtures are spectacular. I fear I’d fill an entire container of rugs, fabrics, and furniture pieces to bring home with me!

Raising two incredible daughters must be a source of immense pride for you. How has motherhood influenced your approach to design and business leadership?

A: I have two incredible daughters who work in very different fields, and they’re enormously successful in what they do. What I’ve learned through them and the team I’ve worked with at Martha Dayton Design is this: Find something you care about and you’ll be successful. Without a doubt, that thinking has influenced the way I mentor and lead, especially when it comes to young people just starting out. Design a profession and place for yourself in life that feeds your passions, and you will thrive.

Photo Credit: Spacecrafting

The SUV for the electric age is here. With a range of up to 300 miles, the all-electric Polestar 3 is designed for remarkable range with an unmistakable look.

Visit our space in The Shops at West End.

The Henri Brands are committed to providing the best experience for our clients while creating a home that is a reflection of who they are. Whether it’s a furniture refresh, a remodel, or a new build with our talented team of designers, Henri is here to take your dreams and transform them into the unimaginable. This is what makes a #HenriHome.

Follow us on Instagram at @henriinteriors and @myhenrihome.

Photo Credits: Taylor Hall O’Brien

It’s Where You Belong.

Workshop/APD’s Minneapolis-based team brings its crafted modern ethos and a deep understanding of local culture, community, and historical context to its projects. For 25 years, the award-winning architecture and design firm has offered vertically integrated architecture, interior design, and product design services under one roof - a streamlined approach that results in exceptionally unified design at every scale. From luxury single family residences to duplex penthouses, high-end developments and more, each of our human-centered projects is perfectly tailored to its place, purpose, and inhabitants. 3505 Hennepin Ave Minneapolis, MN 55408 WWW.WORKSHOPAPD.COM

Workshop/APD’s Minneapolis-based team brings its crafted modern ethos and a deep understanding of local culture, community, and historical context to its projects. For 25 years, the award-winning architecture and design firm has offered vertically integrated architecture, interior design, and product design services under one roof - a streamlined approach that results in exceptionally unified design at every scale. From luxury single family residences to duplex penthouses, high-end developments and more, each of our human-centered projects is perfectly tailored to its place, purpose, and inhabitants.

3505 Hennepin Ave Minneapolis, MN 55408

WWW.WORKSHOPAPD.COM

HANDMADE IS HUMAN

Founded by Artists, Sustainably Designed and Made in Minneapolis.

THE TOP TEN SALES OF 2023

In the realm of luxury real estate, 2023 was a defining year, marking a symphony of success with the top 10 sales. These sales are not just numbers; they are stories etched in the tapestry of creating a home environment welcoming and loving, a testament to the unparalleled commitment to excellence that defines our journey in the world of sophisticated real estate.

Photo Credits: Spacecrafting

03.

02.

04.

3340 Hill Lane, Deephaven - $1,900,000

06.

05.

07.

5945 Concord Avenue, Edina - $1,500,000

20 Merilane, Edina - $2,125,000

08. 10.

09.

Photo Credits: Spacecrafting

4303 Woodstock Avenue, Golden Valley - $1,775,000

2857 Irving Avenue S, Minneapolis - $1,512,500

6040 Kellogg Ave, Edina - $1,685,000

Photo Credit: Love Big Live Small Photography

MINNESOTA’S NEWEST LUXURY RESORT

PREMIERE RETREAT DESTINATION &

BOOK A STAY WITH US TODAY: www.naturelink.us

CONNECT ON INSTAGRAM: @naturelink.mn

BOOK YOUR NEXT CORPORATE RETREAT: Contact us at 218-537-3389 or hospitality@naturelink.us

Photo Credit: Rule Creative Co

7 DAYS OF TWIN CITIES EATING

Photo Credit: Khâluna

Twenty years ago, my wife and I were fresh out of college in the early stages of our careers. We lived in downtown Minneapolis and were surrounded by great eating establishments. I wouldn’t call us foodies, more enthusiastic partakers of nearly anything edible. As young adults we made food a priority, or more importantly we made a habit of supporting local restaurants across the city. It is some of these concepts from the late 1990s that laid the ground work for restaurants of today.

While there is plenty to be excited for in 2024 with regard to a slew of new restaurants opening, I want to turn you attention to a unique blend of the stalwarts within the industry to consider dining at this year.

I am a glutton for a good story and the human stories behind the talent, the ingredients and cultures that comprise the Twin Cities culinary avant-garde are irresistible. Hearing these stories takes the dining out experience to a whole new level.

HARRIET BRASSERIE

Open for nearly a dozen years now, there is clearly a sense of nostalgia and place within this neighborhood café in the center of Linden Hills. Located on the first floor of an old Minneapolis firehouse, the southern facing restaurant with its wall of windows allows the light to dance across the timeless space. I love how I feel when I am there. Make a date to go for lunch, give yourself enough time to appreciate the environment and the food. The staff’s commitment to giving people an accessible, but not pretentious casual fine dining experience.

YOUNG JONI

What Ann Kim and her team have accomplished is exceptional and worthy of national attention. Walking into this space which is sophisticated and sleek, warm and inviting, with the smell of a copper covered wood burning pizza oven fueled by piles of firewood that great you at the entrance. The Neapolitan pizzas are great with some of the favorites carried over from Pizzaria Lola. What keeps us coming back are a slew of small plates like the short ribs, roasted cauliflower and Japanese sweet potatoes. Show up early before your reservation to sneak down the back alley bar for one quick cocktail.

PORZANA

A tectonic shift occurred at the top of the food chain last year with Porzana taking the reins as the number one restaurant in the city. Set in the iconic restaurant space that previously housed The Bachelor Farmer, Danny Del Prado and his team were able to re-engineer the space to flow allowing plenty of bar seating, an open kitchen to the dining room as well as an alleyway patio. The menu comes across as a distant iteration of the now closed Burch Steak with a bevvy of meat cuts. That said, the absolute best time to enjoy Porzana is not a late night evening, but surprisingly Sunday brunch which brings out a great menu and vibe.

MYRIEL

What started as a spot for take out during Covid has blossomed into a full-fledged dining institution in St Paul’s Highland Park neighborhood. Karyn Tomlinson has built a reputation with her Scandinavian heritage, French culinary training and time at Corner Table, Meritage and Borough before making the foray into restaurant operator. Go for the tasting menu, a ticketed seating nightly with thoughtful array of courses and stories of food.

When it comes to one of my favorite places, atmosphere is everything. Rising out of the ashes of a neighborhood bar is Khâluna, a warm and inviting space that begs you to stay longer from the moment you walk in the door. Calm interiors based on earthy elements the space set the scene for bold flavor. This is the type of food rooted in traditional Thai and Vietnamese flavor profiles but taken to the next level from Chef Ann Ahmed’s time living in California. The food is phenomenal and every single person working at the restaurant provides a wonderful experience.

BILLY SUSHI

Our kids would eat sushi for lunch and dinner every day and Billy Sushi is at the top of the sushi pyramid. The atmosphere is almost electric as you enter the front door, partially for the dynamic personality of the owner, Billy Tserenbat, moving non stop through the room slapping backs and sharing laughs. The centuries old tradition with fresh fish in Minneapolis as the sushi you’d get on the coasts.

BAR BRAVA

What started out a few years ago as the city’s only natural wine bar is now home to chef Eric Pham of the Quang restaurant lineage. Pham hosted a few weekend pop ups early in 2023 and they went so well that owner Dan Rice made a long term arrangement with Khue. Vietnamese home cooking paired with natural wines. No need for the menu, cut to the chase and order the spicey chicken sandwich, pork fried rice and five spice tofu.

Photo Credit: Khâluna

Photo Credit: Myriel Photo Credit: Bar Brava

Photo Credit: Young Joni

KHÂLUNA BAR BRAVA MYRIEL YOUNG JONI HARRIET BRASSERIE PORZANA BILLY SUSHI

BEN'S MENU

MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

SUNDAY

KHÂLUNA

BAR BRAVA

MYRIEL

YOUNG JONI

HARRIET BRASSERIE

PORZANA

BILLY SUSHI

Sakoo, Chicken Samosas & Laksa Cream Cheese Wantons, Roast Port Bao & Five Spice Tofu Opt for the tasting menu Beet & Celery, Glazed Prawns, Kimchi Trio & Korean BBQ Pizza

Gnocchi, Salon Rillettes & Steak Frites

Photo Credit: The Harriet Brasserie

Photo Credit: Porzana

Photo Credit: Billy Sushi

THE TOP SOTHEBYS ’ LISTINGS FROM AROUND THE WORLD

Embark on a global odyssey of luxury as we curate a mesmerizing section featuring exceptional Sotheby's listings from around the world. From lavish penthouses overlooking iconic cityscapes to secluded villas nestled in pristine landscapes, these listings are a symphony of design and sophistication. Immerse yourself in the unparalleled beauty of residences that capture the essence of their surroundings, showcasing the diversity of luxury living across continents. Let these extraordinary homes inspire your imagination and redefine your perception of what it means to dwell in opulence on a global scale.

Photo Credits: Sotheby's International Realty

FROM ANNAPOLIS TO PALOS VERDES

Annapolis, Maryland, exudes timeless elegance with its charming colonial architecture and picturesque waterfront, inviting residents to savor the allure of historic streets and the Chesapeake Bay. Alys Beach, Florida, captivates with its pristine white architecture against the backdrop of the Gulf Coast, creating a serene and sophisticated coastal oasis where modern design seamlessly merges with nature. Palos Verdes, California, stands as a beacon of coastal splendor, boasting dramatic cliffs, panoramic ocean views, and upscale residences that blend seamlessly with the natural landscape. Each locale possesses its own unique charm, from the nautical charm of Annapolis to the coastal sophistication of Alys Beach and the breathtaking vistas of Palos Verdes, offering an array of unparalleled beauty for those seeking the epitome of luxury living.

29 S Charles St, Alys Beach FL

Bed: 5 • Bath: 7 • SqFt: 3,438 7.499M

122 Saddle Rock, Wolcott, CO

Bed: 6 • Bath: 6.5 • SqFt: 6,049 8.495M

245 Rocky Point Rd, Palos Verdes Estates, California

Bed: 7 • Bath: 10 • SqFt: 12,472 35M

3778 Pine Ave, Miami, FL

Bed: 6 • Bath: 6 • SqFt: 6,195 18M

1604 Winchester Rd, Annapolis Maryland

Bed: 7 • Bath: 13 • SqFt: 35,435 19.995M

THE

“Being part of Sotheby's International Realty is not just a privilege; it's a passport to a world of luxury and global opportunities, opening doors that transcend borders and redefine the essence of unparalleled living.

19407 Wyatt Rd, Sonoma, CA

Bed: 4 • Bath: 6 • SqFt: 3,925 5M

55 Majestic Way, San Antonio TX

Bed: 6 • Bath: 8 • SqFt: 9,874 5.95M

98 La Gorce Circle, Miami Beach, FL Bed: 7 • Bath: 13 • SqFt: 14,060 75M

30 Park Place PH75B, New York, NY

Bed: 3 • Bath: 4 • SqFt: 3,121 12.25M

1760 Dean York Lane St. Helena, California

Bed: 5 • Bath: 7 • SqFt: 5,166 9.75M

Photo Credit: Josh Grubbs

STRAND DESIGN

DESIGNING DREAMS

Exploring the Mind of David Strand

Trends 2024 Cover photo features Strand Design's Mississippi Modern

Providing modern architectural design services, Strand Design works closely with their clients to realize projects that are successful in design, living, functionality, and beauty.

Can you please briefly describe who you are today?

A: My life and business have always been intertwined. I grew up working and building with my hands before discovering my passion for architecture. Today, I utilize these past experiences and my inherent love of design to fulfill our clients' visions, creating purposeful, refined and timeless homes.

Your work is known for its clean lines, precision and modern aesthetic. What inspires your creative process, and how do you approach each new project?

A: Every project we design is inspired by clients who bring their unique ideas and energy. The client's interests, needs and style are carefully blended with the specific features of the site to meet their goals, all while respecting the environment within which it sits. Through thoughtful evaluation and iteration, these ideas form the final home design that perfectly marries our clients desires to their site. Our aesthetic is clean, refined and modern. But, beyond those key elements of our design, each home achieves its personality through the direction of the client.

Photo Credit: Spacecrafting

Could you tell us about a project that you consider particularly significant or transformative in your career? What were the challenges and breakthroughs?

A: I will always view the Theo Wirth Residence as my magnum opus. I still remember meeting the clients for brunch, and before I knew it, I was designing and then building this amazing home. It was fully consuming. There were months of design and planning, requiring multiple variances and approvals, to achieve our exact vision for the home and site. I was then on site 10 hours a day, every day, to make it as perfect as possible. This project highlighted my knowledge of detailing and construction methods, and also strengthened my passion for architecture and the connection to clients. This experience, along with the previous homes I personally designed and built, gives me a rare architectural understanding of the process and the difficulties that builders face, which is extremely important in successfully navigating a new home to completion. The favorable attention this home received, helped usher Strand Design into the architecture world and allowed us to focus solely on design.

Could you share the relationship you have with clients that have worked with you on multiple projects?

A: It is a great honor when clients return to Strand Design to create another home together. These relationships are based on trust, comfort and the awareness of our intense passion for each home we design and see through to completion. Beautiful and thoughtful design is what brought us together originally, but only during construction can a client truly see the knowledge and advocacy that we bring to each project. Beyond the lasting and compelling designs, this is what makes a client return.

Photo Credit: Chad Holder

Photo Credit: Spacecrafting

Historically, residential architecture is local. Your practice spans across the country. Can you discuss the significance of this and how it has impacted your practice?

A: Much of our work started as Northern Minnesota vacation homes and cabins. So we just extended that three hour drive into a three hour flight. I love projects that are out of our region because they all feature different obstacles to overcome. With our Bandon project on the Pacific Coast, we learned about seismic activity, soil liquefaction and the intense effects of wind and saltwater. In Eleuthera Bahamas, we are learning the interplay between American products and local labor. Outside of Austin Texas, we learned that setbacks and height limitations are mere suggestions, and rugged materials and trades can still be relevant to modern architecture. These projects have helped ignite new learning, new ideas and new energy to our firm.

“ We aren’t about statistics of spaces, we design to be purposeful and positive.

The integration of technology in architecture is evolving rapidly. How do you incorporate cuttingedge technologies and digital tools into your design process?

Collaboration is often vital in architectural projects. Can you share insights into how you work with clients and other professionals to bring your visions to life?

A: I think our interactive design process with clients followed by the collaboration with builders is the key to our success. When clients come in, we don’t just design a cool house and tell them this is it. We get to know their site and their personality to create multiple concepts for them to explore. Through this evaluation we can better determine what really excites them and what the spoken directives truly mean to their site, flow and aesthetic. This process continues at each step allowing the client to guide their design through presented options. We aren’t about statistics of spaces, we design to be purposeful and positive. Beyond that, it is a constant interaction with the builder to achieve the intent of the client while ensuring the build and details can be achieved successfully and effectively.

A: We continuously monitor technology and look for better ways to relay our ideas to the client and builders. Flashy AI tools may at first glance create beautiful images, however we want to ensure that everything we are promoting to our clients is realistic, attainable and feels and looks as good in real life as it does in an image. No amount of technology can replace the trained eye and human attention an experienced and skilled architect, designer or builder can bring to a project.

As an established figure in the field, what advice would you give to aspiring architects and designers who look up to your work and wish to make a meaningful impact in the industry?

A: Learn construction. Having a good sense of scale and proportion, understanding flow, and having the ability to relay that information to clients and builders is hugely important. However, practical construction knowledge is one key element I think most architects, especially new, are missing. Applying inherent design skills into feasible and effective construction methods will position aspiring architects for future success.

Photo Credit: Josh Grubbs

COOTTTAG A EWWOO O D BE E AC H HO H USSE

Bui B lt t l by Strtreet ee e er

Int t nt eri r ors or s by Naada Bib B b i D esi es s gn g

Lan an n dsc ape pe p Archi ch tec ec tur tu t e b e by T yT y VLS LS L

Pho h tog g rap p hy h by b Spa S cec ec e raf r tin g

If you can think it, we can build it.

STATS

#1 RANK AT SOTHEBY'S

Ranked the top Lakes Sotheby's International sales team for 2023

#1 RANK TOP AGENT

Ranked the top agent in Minnesota for total closed transactions in 2021 & 2022

21 DAYS ON MARKET

Listings are on market for an average of 21 days

$330 MILLION IN SALES

Total closed sales volume in 2021, 2022 & 2023: $330 Million

LIFE WITHOUT COMPROMISE

A sophisticated new perspective on high-rise living: Eleven, located in Minneapolis on the shores of the Mississippi River. Minneapolis’ first luxury tower with 24/7 doorman, unparalleled privacy, artfully appointed interiors, indoor & outdoor common spaces, and views of the Mill District and Mississippi River.

Private tours available for remaining units elevenontheriver.com

INTERIORS & DESIGN

We believe in the power and value of old homes and we understand the needs of family life. Bringing the two together since 2015

4801 Nicollet Ave - Mpls

prospectrefugestudio.com

FIX Design Haus is a boutique luxury staging firm with two decades of experience serving Minneapolis. From small projects to collaborations with award-winning architects, builders and designers, FIX Design Haus delivers high-end, innovative designs.

CREATIVE VISUALS

THE THE DETAILS. ARE NOT DETAILS THEY DESIGN. THE MAKE

Charles Eames

Nothing Compares to What's Next

BEN GANJE | TOP 100 SOTHEBY'S AGENT IN THE WORLD

NOTHING COMPARES TO WHAT’S NEXT.