Minnesota living Welcome to

Blue Nova sounds like something out of a sci-fi movie, not something that belongs in homes. But that’s exactly where it’s going for those following the color trend for 2024.

Benjamin Moore and Sherwin Williams agree mid-tone blues are definitely “in” colors for home decorating and design.

In her article on Page 48, Danae Blanck Anderson says, “In the lakes area, blue is infectious because it’s a color from nature, reflecting the water that’s all around us.”

Speaking of water, are you looking to buy a home on water? Are you looking at small or big lakes? Linda Hurst talked to area professionals who gave their opinions on what to think about before making that purchase. (Page 22)

Space is always something people want when looking at building, buying or remodeling their home. And space in the kitchen is a priority. Dining is becoming less formal. Kitchens are becoming an extension of entertainment space. Sarah Waletzko from Hy-Tec Construction, said in almost all of the kitchens she’s designing, people want large islands, sometimes even double in size if the space allows. Kids can do homework while dinner is being prepared. The space truly becomes family-friendly. (Page 40)

Perhaps you want to continue the family-friendly theme to your backyard. Creating your own garden oasis can certainly get the entire family involved with looking at seed catalogs together, sketching a garden design on paper and then planning trips to local greenhouses. Alyson Levig has many tips for backyard gardening in her article on Page 12.

Maybe you don’t have the green thumb it takes to garden. Why not consider an outdoor sauna or cold plunge pool in your backyard? There’s something to be said about having a spa-like setting steps away from your back door. Brainerd lakes area businesses can certainly help you fulfill that dream.

Whether you’re a trendsetter or follower, inside these pages you’ll find valuable information and tips regarding Minnesota Home living.

Special Publications Coordinator

DeLynn Howard

Big water, small water

Is this the year you finally shop for a lakefront property? There’s a lot to analyze. Linda Hurst spoke to local experts to help future homeowners make good decisions based on their wants and needs.

By Linda Hurst

The fun and function of a family-friendly kitchen

Kitchens are command central for our lives and a major focal point of our homes. The popularity of today’s open floor plans means our kitchens are now more accessible than ever. They are more family-friendly than ever and have become a place where we enjoy entertaining others and relaxing with family.

By Sheila Helmberger

Finding your true north style

Spring means sunshine, refreshing rains, new life and maybe some cleaning and organizing. This can also lead to freshening up our surroundings with a small or sometimes large design project. To stay on trend, Danae Blanck Anderson has some tips from the trade happening in Minnesota’s northwoods.

By Danae Blanck Anderson

Also In This Issue

12 A DIY garden oasis

Homes are expressions of those who dwell in them — right down to knick-knack accent pieces. Flower gardens can accomplish the same result outside, yet designing one may not come naturally like finding the perfect indoor color scheme.

By Alyson Levig

16 The ground floor is key

Home ownership always starts with one big question, new construction or old? For those who choose to build new, there are a lot of considerations for usability, durability and sellability.

By Travis Grimler

32 Home saunas and cold plunge pools add to today’s outdoor lifestyles

There are many benefits of the sauna and cold plunge trend therapies making their way into backyards across the country. Why go to a spa when you can have the best of both worlds just steps away from your back door?

By Sheila Helmberger

On The Cover

Lands End Development truly loves what they do. They are thrilled to help people take their own ideas and dreams of a future home and work with them to make those dreams a reality. Celebrating 20 years in this highly competitive industry they built and remodeled more than 300 homes using four simple principles: Quality, Creativity, Value, and Service.

PHOTO BY RICK HAMMER COURTESY OF LANDS END DEVELOPMENT

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