Subscribe at w w w.lakeandhomemagazine.com YEAR 22 | ISSUE 5 SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2021
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Lake & Home Magazine SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2021
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YEAR 22 • ISSUE 5 • SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2021 subscribe online at: www.lakeandhomemagazine.com
CONTENTS
10 OFFICE
Meet Our Team
14 OFFICE
42
Honoring our Advertisers by Bekki Newbrough
18 OFFICE
FIREPLACE
Indoor Fires - Form & Function Ongoing Developments in Wood-Burning Stoves by Patrice Peterson
From the Office by Bekki Newbrough
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INTERIOR DESIGN
Adding Whimsy to Your Lake House by Bekki Newbrough
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OUTDOOR LIVING
Living Inside Out
The Magic of Outdoor Kitchens by Dawn Duncan
INTERIOR DESIGN
Ask a Designer
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DO IT YOURSELF
3 Ways to Create a Mini Library
by Alicia Underlee Nelson
by Alicia Underlee Nelson
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INTERIOR DESIGN
Design Quiz Find Your Style
by Alicia Underlee Nelson
64 RECIPES
Seasonal Flavors by Alicia Underlee Nelson
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DO IT YOURSELF
3 Ways to Update Your Tablescape by Alicia Underlee Nelson
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134
DESIGNER PORTFOLIO
SHOPPING
Custom Upholstery & Awning Center
Service Directory
by Andrea Canning
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FEATURE HOME
Family Matters The Dooley House on Paul Lake
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114
SHOPPING
FEATURE HOME
A Homestead with a History The Fourth Generation
Lake Gifts
Unique in Minnesota - Gifts for the Lake Lover
by Dawn Duncan
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by Alicia Underlee Nelson
FEATURED LAKE
Paul Lake
102
FEATURE HOME
French Country
124
FEATURE HOME
Crafting a Lake Home that Truly Fits
Lakes Style
by Dawn Duncan
SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2021
Cover photo Scott Amundson Photography Story on page 102
Otter Tail County
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Year 22, Issue 5 • SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2021 PUBLISHER & CREATIVE - Kip Johnson EDITORS - Brent and Jennifer Rogness LAYOUT & DESIGN - Aaron Burgener LAKE & HOME MAGAZINE – ADVERTISING SALES Jerry Shea • 218.205.7454 • jerry@lakeandhomemagazine.com Renee Redenius • 701.212.7227 • renee@lakeandhomemagazine.com Becky Haarstad • 262.994.8744 • rebecca@lakeandhomemagazine.com Terri Jo Peery • 320.491.5618• terrijo@lakeandhomemagazine.com SUBSCRIPTIONS In the U.S., one year $24.95; two years $43.50; three years $55.00. Elsewhere add $5.00 per issue. Back issues are available for $5.00 per issue, plus shipping and handling. Subscriptions can be purchased online at lakeandhomemagazine.com/products
LAKE & HOME MAGAZINE Published bimonthly by Compass Media | 126 S Vine St | Fergus Falls, MN 56537 www.lakeandhomemagazine.com artwork@lakeandhomemagazine.com Unless previously agreed, all rights remain the sole property of Lake & Home Magazine. ©2021 Compass Media. Except for purposes of review, material contained herein may not be reproduced without prior written consent. Printed by Midstates, Inc, USA
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Lake & Home Magazine has had the
and experience on topics that are
privilege to share inspiration for life at
relevant to our area. These discussions
the lake for over 20 years. In that time,
can help in making the decisions that
our book has grown into what it is today,
go into building and maintaining a
and it continues to grow. Our editorial
home, or offer new ideas that make the
team
balances
the
with
dream an everyday reality. It’s important
content and contacts. For each
to express just how much our advertisers
issue, we collaborate with local
have done to build and support the
businesses who can share
periodical that has become a favorite
time-earned
pages
knowledge
coffee table magazine here in the lakes area, your Lake & Home. As you enjoy our publication today, please take a moment to view the pages where local businesses have created messages to motivate you. Not only do they share their contact for you in these pages, our advertisers are some of our main resources for expert input and local images on the topics that we discuss with you.
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Here at Lake & Home, you can find a resource for insight, inspiration, and implementation of your home’s needs all in one place. You’ll also see our Construction Planning Guide in distribution locations. A comprehensive listing of lakes
area
companies
that can help with your project, it is also a tool meant for you to take home and
use.
~L&H
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FROM THE OFFICE
From the Office
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utumn holds many things that are close to our hearts. It’s the season of the harvest where we reap benefits from a summer full of growth, and a season of falling leaves that have turned from a brilliant green to the bright burnt colors of fire. What a sight! It’s understandable how this became a time of festivals and revelry for so many different people, and in so many different places. Just as in spring when the days imperceptibly warmed and grew longer, they are now slowly and steadily cooling, and the light dwindles down to shorten them. As sunny days come gradually to a close, opening to winter’s restful quiet, we have time to take those opportunities to enjoy the changing of seasons.
See more from this home on page 124 photo by Jill Ockhardt Blaufuss
If I think back to years past, my mind goes right to the smells of fresh baked apple pie, dried herbs and cider. Then, I remember the annual pumpkin patch where they had a corn maze for the kids, and quiet laughter around a campfire that lit up like a lantern surrounded by the dark. This is a special time of year for my family, and I’m sure it holds something unique for yours as well. As things get quieter, there’s an opening to start thinking about designing or planning whatever it may be that’s next. That is what this issue of Lake & Home is all about. Here, you’ll get to see a discussion with local designers that may give you just the right insight into how to perfect your build or project. Plan for the summer with our piece about outdoor kitchens that will invoke the smell of the barbecue and the happy chatter of friends. Then, you can take a step inside to consider something that would warm your toes in the winter, a wood burning stove. Is this unique fireplace just the thing to add a warming appeal to your room?
I hope our new recipe section gives your kitchen the variety of smells that remind you of your childhood. My grandmother was a five-star chef, so holidays were always heady with the kitchen’s aromas and sounds of cooking. It’s a tiny thing, that sound, but it shepherds a sensation and feeling of home that cannot be easily replicated, nor ever replaced. Building a house is also about building a home. This issue, we have houses to explore that are both beautiful and close to the heart. As you get to walk through the photos and see the love knitted into these custom homes, our hope is you’ll discover a spark of inspiration. ~L&H
Bekki Newbrough Office Administrator
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INTERIOR DESIGN
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I
n a world full of design magazines,
So how do we narrow down our options and
Pinterest boards, Houzz accounts,
decide what we really like? Should we try a
DIY workshops, YouTube tutorials
project ourselves or call in a professional?
and non-stop HGTV, design inspiration is constantly flowing. This can be empowering. But
We posed these and other reader questions
it can also be overwhelming.
to interior designers around the region. Their answers will help you take the next step in your design project, whether it’s a new build, a weekend refresh or a remodeling job.
How can I figure out my style and properly convey it to a designer? “Determining your personal design style can seem like a daunting task, especially when there are so many possibilities! If you want a simple way to discover your style, I say look no further than your own closet.
Is it full of relaxed boho pieces? I would suggest decorating with a slew of plants, multiple textures and layering in the form of throws and pillows. Do you have a lot of neutral and traditional articles of clothing, such as blazers? Then you may opt for a neutral color palette with textured accent pieces and decorate using symmetry. Is your closet embellished with bold pops of color? Pull these colors into your décor pieces - vases, artwork, and textiles. Use your closet as a guide.
When communicating your vision, style, likes and dislikes with a designer, words can often be lost in translation. Verbal descriptions leave too much room for misinterpretations. For example, what some may consider clean and modern others would refer to as cold and boring.
a better chance of successfully bringing their client’s vision to life. Personally, I always ask clients what they don’t like. I find this useful to establish a foundation we can build off of. Communication between client and designer is what results in a pleasant experience and successful execution of ideas.”
This means the most effective way to convey your style to a designer would be done visually. Pinterest and Instagram are very helpful tools to gather images, as well as snippets from magazines and books.
Liz Carlson
It is crucial to choose a designer whose priority is communication. Designers who listen to their clients and ask lots of questions have
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Center of Design in Audubon centerofdesigninc.com
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How can window treatments change the look of a home?
“Window treatments can not only change the look of a room, but they can literally transform the atmosphere and the light. With semi-sheer and solar shades you can create soft ambient light without totally blocking the view. Wood blinds and shutters offer a tilt option to keep out the sun but still give you a clear view. On the other hand, you may want a room darkening honeycomb to block the light totally for a home theater or bedroom. Shades and blinds are considered ‘hard’ window treatments, drapes and top treatments are considered ‘soft’ window treatments. The most popular right now are drapery panels that simply frame the sides of your windows. There are literally thousands of fabrics available and many different rod options. Selecting the right fabric can enhance your other furnishings and create either a casual or more formal look.
Window treatments have become more complex. Not only are there many products available in many different colors and textures, but each product offers multiple lifting systems, from cordless to retractable cords, as well as remote options. A window treatment specialist can help guide you through all the decisions that are part of creating the right look for your home.”
Jeanene Hoppe
Fergus Home & Hardware in Fergus Falls FergusHomeAndHardware.com
photo provided by Fergus Home & Hardware
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“One way to spruce up your kitchen is to update your cabinet hardware or update your light fixtures. By changing the outdated finish on these details, you can transform the look of your space fairly simply.
Jamie Wallace Calla Lily Designs in Fergus Falls callalilydesigns.com
Another affordable way to update a kitchen or bathroom is to replace countertops and not be afraid to explore the beautiful patterns in laminate available today. While solid surface and quartz are gorgeous options, the depth and design in today’s laminate options are a stunning and affordable option. We also love to incorporate tile to affordably insert your own personality into a space. Whether for a fireplace surround or a kitchen backsplash, these are smaller areas where you can get creative and transform the look of the room.”
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photo provided by Calla Lily Designs
What are some affordable ways to update my home?
How can I decide which wood finishes will work in my house? “I really like it when people are able to take a look at all the different kinds of wood and woodwork out there for millwork. That helps narrow down a lot of your choices and helps set your budget. And once you know your millwork, that can simplify your choices for flooring. Most people start with the cabinets and work their way backward. Once they find wood they like for their cabinets, everything else kind of comes from there. Then they choose the interior doors and trim work based on the
cabinets. Once we know the trim color and the different types of doors, that makes it easier to determine a budget. Some people want their trim to match their cabinets, but others don’t care. Everybody is different and they have different priorities. They might do a maple cabinet and painted woodwork. Or knotty alder, oak or poplar, which right now is very popular. That’s the white millwork that people see.
A lot of time it also depends on the kind of windows they have. With vinyl windows, you can use any kind of trim on the inside. You really can have any kind of wood on vinyl windows and it looks good. If you go with interior wood windows, you’re limited a bit more.”
Steve Gease
Fergus Home & Hardware in Fergus Falls FergusHomeAndHardware.com
photo provided by Fergus Home & Hardware
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When is it time to call in a pro? “You will know you’re in over your head when you are second guessing your decisions. You have too quickly made decisions/selections and there are compromises being made that you’re not comfortable with. We have a wealth of knowledge and experience and can bring so much to the table. My recommendation is that the earlier a client brings us into the project, the better, because we are professionals and our jobs are to manage expectations and develop designs for homes that are unique to the user and customized for the families. And because we take into consideration so many aspects of the process and outcome (and do this day in and day out), we can provide ease and organization with the design and execution process. Oftentimes, we are brought into a project because a client is overwhelmed or is in a place of frustration.
Managing a new construction (or even a small remodel) requires a lot of decisions and thought-through layout, finishes and fixture selections, budget management, how that space is going to transpire through time and aging, just to name a few considerations. Even using a professional on a consulting basis will ease a lot of stress, eliminate a lot of common errors made in the management of projects, which translates into saving money in the long run. Additionally, not everyone is visual. Part of our job is not only to help the client verbalize their expectations, but for us to show them what they need to feel comfortable moving forward. This can be done with renderings, design boards, floor plans, and specific products/finishes. It’s always such an incredible feeling to see concepts come to life.”
Sara Godfrey
Sara Godfrey Design in Alexandria saragodfreydesign.com ~L&H
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INTERIOR DESIGN
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How do you want your home to look and feel? A. Timeless and polished, with interiors that showcase well-made pieces from many eras B. Light, airy, calm and comfortable with soft neutrals and lots of natural light C. Bold, sensual, colorful and enveloping: a home should be an escape from the mundane D. Sleek, modern, and minimalistic for a streamlined, curated look E. Cozy, rustic, no-fuss: a laid-back, easygoing retreat for friends and family
DESIGN QUIZ
Your Answer
F. Colorful and vibrant, with a global flair: a joyful collection of unique things G. Practical, functional, multi-purpose: the ideal house is practically indestructible H. Cozy, whimsical, a collection of patinaed furniture, charming florals and vintage touches
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Which pieces of furniture are on your wish list? A. A classic Chesterfield sofa or a family heirloom that has stood the test of time B. Pale wood furniture with smooth, clean lines C. A sleek and curvy couch or chaise, perfect for lounging D. Pieces with sharp, geometric lines E. Sturdy, comfortable pieces made of reclaimed wood
DESIGN QUIZ
Your Answer
F. A hanging rattan egg chair G. A metal studio stool with rivets that works in any room H. Distressed wooden pieces, either natural or painted in calming whites or creams
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Which materials always catch your eye? A. Dark, polished wood B. Light-colored wood C. Lush velvet and anything reflective D. Chrome and leather E. Rustic wood and weathered metal
DESIGN QUIZ
Your Answer
F. Natural textures like jute, bamboo and terra cotta G. Stainless steel and concrete, exposed pipes and ductwork H. Textiles with a story: heirloom lace, soft vintage sheets, embroidered dish towels
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What’s on your walls? A. Timeless paintings on neutral walls: tasteful details like crown moldings add drama B. White walls and minimal window treatments to maximize natural light and nature views C. Vivid colors, bold wallpaper, art, mirrors and dramatic drapes D. Neutral colors like black and white, artwork or lighting installations for a pop of color E. Airy whites and creams accented with reclaimed barnwood F. Colorful paintings, photos, maps, fiber art or tapestries – and maybe all at once G. Neutral or concrete walls, accented with historic brick or reclaimed wood H. Rustic stone, reclaimed wood or white walls accented with bucolic art
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DESIGN QUIZ
Your Answer
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Describe your dream digs: A. An English manor house or a painted lady Victorian B. A restful, comfortable, calming retreat nestled in the mountains or forest C. A mid-century Hollywood mansion with a pool D. An open plan urban townhouse with big windows and space to display the art collection E. An old-fashioned farmhouse on the outside with all the modern conveniences inside
DESIGN QUIZ
Your Answer
F. A bungalow full of treasures — and a custom camper to take inspiration on the road G. A loft in a former warehouse that preserves the details that give the place character H. A little cottage full of cozy nooks and crannies and a bountiful garden
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You can’t resist: A. A Tiffany lamp or a family heirloom that adds gravitas to a room B. Soft rugs and blankets and candles for a welcoming glow C. Crystal chandeliers, a gleaming metal bar cart, gilt mirrors – anything that sparkles D. Clever design: Even lamps or a streamlined espresso machine can be beautiful E. Hand-lettered signs, antiques with character
DESIGN QUIZ
Your Answer
F. Colorful textiles, interesting pottery and plants. There’s always room for more. G. Practical furniture that combines wood and metal, cage lights with exposed bulbs H. Décor inspired by nature: pastoral paintings, dried flowers, a windowsill herb garden
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What’s your weekend project? A. Scouring the internet and estate sales for classic Shaker furniture B. Tucking clutter out of sight using clever organizational systems C. Swapping out light bulbs so every room is enveloped in the most flattering glow D. Visiting galleries and lighting emporiums to source the perfect accent pieces E. Going junking to find rusty accents, vintage window panes and signage to repurpose
DESIGN QUIZ
Your Answer
F. Planning the next trip (even if it’s only to the flea market or the greenhouse) G. Hitting the salvage yards for materials for the next DIY project H. Arranging fresh cut flowers or freshening up home accents with a coat of chalk paint
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What’s your interior design pet peeve? A. People who follow every trend. A home should be carefully curated, not a time capsule B. Carpet. Wood floors (even imperfect ones) are so much better. C. Dull, utilitarian interiors in drab colors. Fashion matters just as much as function. D. Crowded, busy rooms. Negative space is as important as the space you fill. E. Sterile, minimalistic interior. Rustic wood and stone feel warmer and more natural. F. Buying mass produced art and furniture instead of working with artists and craftspeople G. People that throw out heirlooms or furniture when they could easily be repurposed
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DESIGN QUIZ
Your Answer
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What’s in your closet? A. Well-made, tailored clothing that’s designed to last. Some things never go out of style. B. Warm, casual, cozy basics that work equally well indoors and out in nature C. Interesting silhouettes, patterns and colors that showcase your form and personality D. Simple, streamlined neutrals accented with artful accessories
DESIGN QUIZ
Your Answer
E. Practical clothing that you can work or play in F. A variety of colorful, sculptural or patterned pieces that you can layer with ease G. A uniform of utilitarian clothing and durable metal or leather accessories H. A blend of vintage and modern shapes, colors drawn from nature and whimsical details
Review your answers and find your style on the next page!
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See more from this feature home in our July/Aug 2019 issue
Mostly A’s
Traditional
This style emphasizes sturdy, well-made furniture that can be passed down through generations and natural materials like wood and metal. Rich colors and a subdued decorating style let architectural flourishes like wood paneling, stained glass, intricately carved railings and decorative moldings around windows and doors shine.
Mostly B’s
Scandinavian
This color palette is light and airy – neutrals like white, cream and tan are accented with just a hint of pale rose, watery green or soft sky blue. Nordic furniture is sleek and streamlined and often rendered in pale, blond wood. Wood floors are prized, but any smooth surface works well with this simple, relaxed style. Comfortable rugs, cozy blankets, and flickering candles create an atmosphere of warmth and relaxation. To add a little Scandi style to your life, start by emphasizing space and natural light. Clear away unnecessary clutter, find a place for every object and let the room breathe. Choose minimal window treatments (or remove them entirely) so views of nature and soft natural light infuse the room with calm.
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See more from this feature home in our Mar/Apr 2020 issue
Since historic homes contained several rooms, each with a specific purpose, traditional room layouts tend to be more symmetrical and formal than open plan living. Add a touch of traditional style with antique furniture (or a replica of a style that has stood the test of time), classic accents like a grandfather clock or solid bookshelves or even wallpaper and artwork from different decades.
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Mostly C’s
Glamorous
With roots in opulent Hollywood Regency, this style is all about drama, texture and metallic accents. Textiles like suede, leather and velvet combine with vivid colors, regal jewel tones, vibrant art and striking patterned wallpaper for richly layered interiors. Furniture is often low-slung and curvy for maximum lounging comfort. Glam fans love entertaining and treating themselves and their guests to the finest things in life. So invest in mood lighting and a bar in the dining room to take a dinner party to the next level and cultivate places to unwind on the patio and throughout the house. Add metallic and crystal light fixtures, mirrors, serving trays – even drawer pulls and door knobs – so every room sparkles and shines.
Mostly D’s
Contemporary
Contemporary (or modern) style is rooted in geometric shapes, strong horizontal lines and a strong emphasis on negative space. For this reason, it’s very closely related to minimalism, which also banishes clutter and elevates stark, stripped-down design. Contemporary furniture has very clean lines and often sits quite low to the ground. The way a piece looks and how it contributes to the harmony of the room is as important as how comfortable it is. Interiors are neutral. Visual excitement comes from juxtaposing opposites like black and white, hard and soft, wood and metal. Color is used very sparingly and anything bright or curvy makes a big visual impact. Adopting a monochrome palette, choosing furniture with clean lines and eliminating clutter can add a contemporary touch to a room.
See more from this feature home in our Nov/Dec 2019 issue
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Mostly F’s
Boho
Playful, layered and collected, the Bohemian (or boho) aesthetic is an amalgamation of eclectic styles from around the globe. Furniture and home décor feature natural materials like caning, bamboo, rattan and clay. Artfully displayed collections of plants, meaningful stones and crystals, driftwood and seashells mingle with pottery, art and little treasures picked up on numerous adventures. Boho fans enthusiastically explore new cultures and experiences, even if they can’t physically travel far from home. Introducing collections of these objects is an easy way to inject boho spirit into a space. Adding intricate textiles, including tapestries, fiber art, handwoven rugs, embellished pillows and bedcoverings is another. The look is layered and colorful, so it’s hard to go overboard.
Mostly E’s
Modern Farmhouse
This popular style combines farmhouse comfort and thrift with modern conveniences. It combines antiques, found objects, family heirlooms and upcycled furniture and building materials in a refined way. Reclaimed wood (especially barnwood) is a cornerstone of the style. In addition to being eco-conscious, reclaimed wood lends a sense of history to doors, walls, beams, cabinets and floors... even in a new build. Metals like galvanized steel are repurposed too, so mixing metals is very common. Interesting rusty bits and bobs, family keepsakes, rustic stone and sturdy furniture create a home that feels durable and timeless. The color scheme needs to tie all these disparate elements together. Most interiors are white, cream, beige or gray. But understated blues and greens can serve the same purpose. Heritage fabrics like plaid and gingham can also provide a sense of continuity.
photo provided by Center of Design
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Mostly G’s
Industrial
Industrial style evolved as warehouses, factories and schools were converted into lofts and apartments. Instead of hiding the elements that made these spaces functional, exposed ductwork and pipes were incorporated into the design. Original wood floors, posts and beams were restored. Historic brick and antique windows were preserved. A neutral color scheme keeps the focus firmly on these architectural elements. The fixtures, finishes and furniture mirror the wood, metal and concrete around them. While a previously industrial space or open concept dwelling is the best fit for this style, even new homes can adopt a little industrial edge. Try adding cage-style pendant lights or exposed Edison bulbs in kitchens or bathrooms. Swap out wood seating for metal chairs or stools, install a rough brick accent wall or fireplace or repurpose an old wood chest, library card catalogue or metal lockers into a new storage space.
Mostly H’s
Cottagecore
Approachable, cozy and comfortable, cottagecore (or farmcore) grew out of a lifestyle movement that cultivates the simple pleasures of home, hearth and garden. Despite the site-specific names, anyone can create a cottagecore home. Key zones include a well-appointed (and often open-shelved) country kitchen, an outdoor space for gardening and soaking up the sunshine and plenty of nooks and crannies to read, nap and create. A big dining room table and a fireplace, wood stove or fire pit are coveted additions. Like its predecessor, shabby chic, pleasantly weathered warm wood, whitewashed furniture and vintage textiles feature prominently in this aesthetic. The broader color scheme favors creamy neutrals, pastels and shades drawn from nature. But art, fabric and flowers are whimsical and vibrant. This look prizes reusing and recycling, so interiors are a blend of materials and eras. ~L&H 40 Lake & Home Magazine SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2021
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F FIREPLACE
photo provided by Wilkening Fireplace
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photo provided by Center of Design
A
s far back as the beginning of civilization, the use of fire was initially implemented to create warmth – and also to cook food. What began as a crude outdoor campfire eventually developed into an open-hearth fireplace structure built into the home that was somehow vented outside. For many years, most of those fireplaces would take more heat OUT of the home than they actually generated. As time progressed, different kinds of ideas were incorporated to make building fires inside a home more safe and efficient. What is now known as a wood-burning stove was invented sometime in 16th century Europe. Generally made of solid metal with a closed firebox, it was developed more specifically as a heating appliance that burns wood for fuel. Although it was more efficient, the cold black metal lacked the ambiance of an open-hearth fireplace.
Most of today’s wood-burning stoves are usually made of either cast iron or steel, but don’t look much like those original models. “They’re nothing like they used to be back when great-grandpa would cut a barrel in half,” says Jayde Carlson, owner of Center of Design in Audubon, Minnesota. “They’re steel based, but the designs and materials have evolved as much as the technology. People may not realize the amount of technology put into it, or that the wood stove has different efficiencies and has to meet certain standards.”
TECHNOLOGY AND SAFETY According to Gary Wilkening, owner of Wilkening Fireplace in Walker, a rising popularity of the wood-burning stove during the energy crisis in the 1970s increased the efforts for both wood-burning stoves and fireplaces to burn more efficiently and work better.
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“the designs and materials have evolved as much as the technology. People may not realize the amount of technology put into it, or that the wood stove has different efficiencies and has to meet certain standards.” Jayde Carlson - Center of Design
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photo provided by Wilkening Fireplace
“It was important to find a way to bring some of that heat back into the home, so in the mid-1980s, some designs were created that incorporated secondary combustion,” he explains. “When you burn wood, smoke is released as the initial fire burns, and secondary combustion captures that smoke back into the fire and re-burns it.”
Newer wood stoves incorporate secondary combustion, and many fireplace designs have followed the same path. As the wood burns and enters the upper area, the smoke is re-ignited, providing a cleaner exhaust, less smoke pollution, and more heat. “It allows you to get more heat out of each piece of wood,” Wilkening continues, “cleaning up emissions into the atmosphere, put-
ting less smoke up the chimney, and minimizing the amount of creosote and soot building up in the chimney. It’s a compounding effect of positivity.” The secondary combustion process is completed in one of two ways. It can be achieved with the proper fuel mixture of smoke and air. Or it can be done by passing it through a kind of catalytic converter, similar to those found in an automobile. Wilkening says that wood stoves most commonly have the converters, and some fireplaces are headed in that direction as well. Wood stoves have also increased their safety standards over the last 40 years, adding additional shields on the side that allow for extremely close clearances for wooden walls. When considering the safest way to build a fire or the type of wood to use, Wilkening has a very simple answer whenever anyone asks him, “What’s the best kind of wood to burn?” “Dry.”
photo provided by Wilkening Fireplace
The Franklin Stove In the 1740s, Benjamin Franklin invented a 3-sided metal-lined fireplace, with venting for improved airflow. Called the Franklin stove, it didn’t gain much in popularity, but many years later it was an inspiration for future improvements in both wood-burning stoves and fireplaces.
first real step forward in fireplace efficiency photo provided by Wilkening Fireplace
In 1973, Wilkening Fireplace introduced a metal insert, similar to a stove, that went into the fireplace when it was being built. It created air circulation from the home to heat and cycle it back into the house. The company continues to revise that original design to improve the efficiency and appearance, and also to make it easier to operate, even for the novice user.
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He says the kind of wood, oak, pine or whatever, doesn’t matter as much as the quality of the wood from a moisture content. “The most important thing for building a safe and successful fire is dry wood, along with ample kindling,” he explains. “The moisture content of the wood should be less than 20 percent, and a digital moisture meter can be a great tool for a novice to determine that moisture level.”
WHAT TO CONSIDER WHEN DECIDING Just as wood-burning stoves have come a long way over the years, so have fireplaces. Somewhere along the line, however, the wood-burning stove seems to have become the practical, functional choice for heating, where a fireplace is the more aesthetic choice that also creates ambiance.
It is important to select the right type of product and location to meet your needs and expectations, while addressing all safety concerns related to clearance and installation requirements. “After eight years in the business of wood-burning stoves and fireplaces, I’m still learning,” says Carlson with a laugh. “A stove was always considered more for heating, while a fireplace was thought of as decorative. Now, as wood-burning stoves move more toward becoming more decorative or aesthetic, the open-hearth fireplaces are moving toward becoming more efficient.”
“The most important thing for building a safe and successful fire is dry wood, along with ample kindling.” Gary Wilkening - Wilkening Fireplace
Today, most wood-burning fireplaces, stoves – or even fireplace inserts – are all highly efficient, heat-producing systems that direct the majority of the heat from the fire into a living space.
photo provided by Wilkening Fireplace
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One person may want to offset a heating bill, using the stove or fireplace for heating a portion of the home, or even the entire home. Others may want the visual appearance that is gained with stone or brick, along with a mantel. “Sometimes it’s as simple as form over function – or function over form,” adds Wilkening. He says that some of the newer wood stoves are like a piece of furniture. “There’s even one stove style where you can slide the top cover
photos top and right provided by Center of Design
to the side, and use the direct warmth from the stove as a surface to heat small pans or keep a kettle of coffee warm.” Or they may have cast-iron outer perimeters, with a soapstone interior to enhance the aesthetics. Soapstone retains heat, and can extend the life of a fire. “To me, it depends on whatever style you want to incorporate into the room,” he says. “What does your visual picture look like when
you think of this wood-burning structure? There are a number of different products that can fit whatever is in anyone’s mind. Some of the newer wood-burning stoves even have an ultra-modern style – a cylinder looking unit.” In the past, you might be sacrificing heating abilities if you went with a fireplace, or sacrificing aesthetics if you went with a wood-burning stove. With today’s effectiveness and styling, you can get the same result. What it really comes down to is personal choice and customer appeal. ~L&H
“Sometimes it’s as simple as form over function – or function over form.” Gary Wilkening - Wilkening Fireplace
See more from this feature home in our May/June 2021 issue
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Specialty fire lighter kits from American Fire Lighter Company This product provides a simple (and environmental) spin on an old traditional way to start a fire. “The kit includes a stoneware crock that you fill with an oil we make from a paraffin candle and lamp oil,” explains Chad Keehfus, one of two brothers who own and operate the company. “Then, after soaking the reusable FireStone, which is attached to a steel handle, in that oil, you roll it in any remaining ashes, light it, and place it under the wood.” The porous stone will stay lit for 20 minutes, eliminating the need for newspaper or kindling. “The feedback we get is how easy it is to use to start any kind of wood fire.”
photo provided by American Fire Lighter
Compressed Fiber Firestarters By mixing recycled cardboard with wax, there are a variety of products made that will burn once lit, getting the kindling and smaller logs going without the need for newspaper (or liquids, which should never be used inside). The Chim-A-Lator® Deluxe This chimney cap mounts on top of a masonry fireplace flue and is operated by an adjustable regulator installed on the side wall of the fireplace. It is an energy-efficient replacement for old defective fireplace dampers. Made by Dalson Manufacturing (Minneapolis), it can help plug a hole at the top and minimize heat loss for dampers that no longer seal well.
photo provided by American Fire Lighter
Anti-Creo-Soot Creosote Remover This product comes in a liquid spray bottle that is applied to the logs before starting a fire. The material evaporates and goes up with the smoke, attacking creosote and soot, making it easier to clean the chimney and reducing chimney fire risk. Fireplace Firebacks Designed for traditional, older fireplaces, this cast-iron plate absorbs the heat energy and radiates it back into the room in an effort to offset inefficiencies.
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Digital Moisture Meter The best wood to burn is that with less than 20 percent moisture. With this meter, you can obtain the moisture content. After splitting a piece of wood, you can measure a sample by simply sticking it into the inner part of that split log and pressing a button. ~L&H
photo provided by Center of Design
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O
OUTDOOR LIVING
Story by Dawn Duncan Photo courtesy of Design Pro Flooring
54 Lake & Home Magazine SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2021
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“NINETY PERCENT OF OUR OUTDOOR KITCHEN CLIENTS LOOK FOR A BUILT-IN GRILL AND GRANITE COUNTERTOPS AS THE MOST IMPORTANT FEATURES.”
PAT MORSTAD // PRECISION LANDSCAPE & IRRIGATION
photo provided by Center of Design
H
ere in Minnesota, creating living and entertaining spaces that can go the distance, withstand the elements, and provide opportunity to indulge in the beauty of the natural landscape are what today’s custom homeowners are seeking. One area this is clearly evident is in the cataclysmic rise in popularity of outdoor kitchens. Jay Schuler from Alex Brick & Stone relays, “We have seen a big increase in what we call our Outdoor Living products. Everything from outdoor fireplaces, built-in grilling areas to full-blown kitchen and living spaces outside.” Once a design feature that was somewhat obscure or reserved for only luxury homes, today, homes of all sizes and types are now being built or remodeled to include spaces that allow flow from the interior to the exterior of the home through conscientiously-crafted areas that act as additional kitchen, dining, and entertaining space.
add outdoor heating elements to stay warm on cool nights, or hire one of the fantastic designers and landscapers we partner with to create a full custom area, we have what you need.”
Alex Brick & Stone works with top manufacturers of landscaping products, fireplaces, grills and fire pits, to bring a client’s vision to life. Schuler says, “Whether a homeowner wants to purchase an outdoor living kit and build their own,
Thirty-three year landscape and design veteran Pat Morstad, owner of Ottertail-based Precision Landscape & Irrigation, stated the trend of outdoor kitchens is becoming increasingly appealing to homebuyers as peo-
56 Lake & Home Magazine SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2021
Jamie Wallace, owner of Calla Lily Designs in Fergus Falls, explained that when working with her lakes area clients, a goal that is universal is to bring the outdoors in, to design indoor and outdoor spaces that flow together. “Wood look porcelain tile works well, along with stacked stone as finishes that can be used in either location,” she said. Additionally, Wallace commented that warm tones can flow between the spaces to bring a sense of continuity. It is from this initial foundation that the outdoor kitchen elements can be selected and necessary landscaping designed to coordinate the project from colors to textures to the actual components that will result in an outdoor cooking and dining space.
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ple are desiring more outdoor time and ability to entertain guests in a warm atmosphere. Rather than simply grilling outside and eating on a patio or deck at a table, today’s custom outdoor kitchens run the gamut in terms of complexity, cost, and styles. “Ninety percent of our outdoor kitchen clients look for a builtin grill and granite countertops as the most important features. Other amenities that are options are stainless products, drawers, trash areas, refrigerators, woodfired pizza ovens, and an infinite realm of unique details that can be added,” Morstad explained. Morstad and wife Trista operate Precision Landscape & Irrigation together, along with their team of 20. During the company’s history, they have worked on projects that have been small to very large in scope and budget, predominantly in residential and occasionally in commercial properties.
photo provided by Alex Brick & Stone
As a one-stop-shop, Precision Landscape & Irrigation is able to provide everything from landscape architecture to the design-build of outdoor kitchens, seating areas, and all custom additions such as lighting, fireplaces, water features, and dramatic design accents. With experienced designers in house, Precision Landscape & Irrigation provides a resource for clients seeking assistance from project inception through full installation and completion. “We are a company that does it all,” Morstad said, “and work to make our clients comfortable exploring their options.” The company’s Ottertail, Minn., headquarters is a visual testament to the company’s acute attention to detail and creating stunning exterior spaces, with a new building surrounded by manicured, sculpted grounds and patio features. Chad Peda, owner of Design Pro Flooring of Pelican Rapids, Minn., a business that has built an extensive list of custom kitchens, both indoor and outdoor, echoed the rise in popularity of outdoor kitchens. He stated that when clients look at a list of options, they tend to be aware of what exists on the market to some degree, but traditionally think of landscape blocks, appliances, and basics; they may not realize how much they can actually do to customize a space and make it as luxurious as they’d like. In fact, Peda joked that, 58 Lake & Home Magazine SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2021
“INSTEAD OF A BASIC KITCHEN LAYOUT WITH STANDARD CABINETS, WE CAN CONSIDER STAINLESS IN A VARIETY OF PAINT COLORS AND USE OF HIGH-QUALITY BONDING AGENTS TO ENSURE A WEATHERPROOF, WATERPROOF SPACE.”
CHAD PEDA // DESIGN PRO FLOORING
SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2021
photos top and right provided by Design Pro Flooring
www.lakeandhomemagazine.com 59
photo provided by Precision Landscaping
“THE DIFFERENCE WE CAN MAKE ON A HIGH IMPACT LEVEL IS IN THE INTEGRATIVE CABINETRY INSTEAD OF JUST LANDSCAPE BLOCK.”
CHAD PEDA // DESIGN PRO FLOORING
with enough coverage, heaters, and love of Minnesota winter, it is entirely possible to have a “365 outdoor kitchen” right here in Lakes Country! Tech components such as built-in speakers, flatscreen TVs that have custom covers or cabinets, flair lighting, and hidden small appliance areas all add more flexibility and appeal to an outdoor kitchen. The more indoor amenities are also offered in the outdoor space, the more the outdoor room becomes utilized and frequented. “The difference we can make on a high impact level is in the integrative cabinetry instead of just landscape block. Instead of a basic kitchen layout with standard cabinets, we can consider stainless in a variety of
60 Lake & Home Magazine SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2021
paint colors and use of high quality bonding agents to ensure a weatherproof, waterproof space.” This option alone provides significant selection for clients to shop and this aids in narrowing their preferences. From there, the design starts coming together and gradually becomes reflective of the homeowners and their lifestyle. Peda’s company mainly works with Danver, a Connecticut-based manufacturer of topend stainless products. Brown & Jordan, a San Francisco company that is supplied by Danver, specialized in outdoor furnishings until adding a private label of kitchen amenities. Additionally, in early 2020, Trex Company, the world’s largest manufacturer of wood-alternative decking and railing products, teamed up with Danver Stainless Out-
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door Kitchens. The partnership has resulted in new luxury options in cabinetry and related components. The line is called Trex Outdoor Kitchens collection. Danver founder and owner Mitch Slater, as quoted on trex.com, commented after his company partnered with Trex, “As outdoor cooking areas have evolved from standalone grills to fully appointed kitchens and living spaces, the demand for more color and style options has grown considerably. Whether the color palette complements the surrounding landscape or stands out with a dramatic statement color, outdoor living spaces can be created to meet any design and performance need.” Regarding the growth in design options, Peda agreed. “We love working with clients who are ready to discover how many new and incredible offerings there are in today’s market,” Peda commented. From custom
bars, seating, couches, loungers, gas heaters, and all components of the outdoor cooking and prep areas, Peda stated that it is definitely possible to create an entire living space that is functional, beautiful, and inviting. “It’s all about flow,” he said, “and perhaps lending some yard space to be an area that is utilized heavily. This maximizes the home’s appeal in ways that go beyond basic remodeling.” Overall, when it comes to building an outdoor kitchen, it’s important to identify what the space should offer to complement lifestyle. Designers and architects work with clients to decipher needs, wants, and budgets and then decide the best way to use space from the back door to the lakeshore, as an example. “We work with all types of homes and architectural styles, from Northwoods and seasonal to classic to very contemporary,” Peda remarked. “Style comes into play with finishes and specifics and the outdoor
photos provided by Design Pro Flooring
62 Lake & Home Magazine SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2021
“IT’S ABOUT DESIGNING SOMETHING THAT’S NOT JUST VISUALLY APPEALING, BUT ALSO A SPACE TO REALLY LIVE IN AND LOVE.”
CHAD PEDA // DESIGN PRO FLOORING
kitchen can be designed to perfectly blend with the home’s interior and exterior; it becomes another room, rather than a separate addition.” How a space will be used and by whom will be the ultimate factors for consideration and Peda shared, “It’s about designing something that’s not just visually appealing, but also a space to really live in and love.” ~L&H
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photo and recipe by Alicia Underlee Nelson
Pumpkin spice lattes get all the glory,
2 2/3 cups white sugar
but this classic pumpkin bread is my
2/3 cup shortening
favorite way to enjoy the flavor of the
4 eggs, beaten
season. And the spice mixture makes the kitchen smell fantastic.
1, 16 ounce can of pumpkin or fresh roasted pumpkin (not pumpkin pie filling)
2/3 cup water It makes two loaves, so you have a
3 1/3 cup flour
spare to share. It also freezes well so
½ teaspoon baking powder
you can save some for later.
2 teaspoons baking soda 1 ½ teaspoons salt 1 teaspoon cinnamon ½ teaspoon cloves ½ teaspoon nutmeg
64 Lake & Home Magazine SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2021
Pre-heat oven to 350°. Grease two 9 x 5 loaf pans. Set aside. Cream sugar and shortening with a mixer until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes. Stir in eggs, pumpkin and water. Add flour, baking powder, soda, salt and spices. Mix until well combined. Pour batter into greased pans. Bake for about 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out clean. ~L&H
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photo and recipe by Alicia Underlee Nelson
1½ pounds kale
Since it’s prepared on the stovetop, great for those in-between fall days
2 pounds russet or Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and quartered
where you crave something warm
4 sausages
this Dutch comfort food classic is
and hearty at night but don’t neces-
Oil for frying
sarily want to turn on your oven on a warm afternoon. And it’s an easy way
1/3 cup whole milk
to get some green veggies into your
4 tablespoons butter
dinner.
½ cup whole milk or buttermilk
Variations on this kale and mash
1 teaspoon nutmeg
dish (Boerenkool Stamppot in Dutch)
Salt and pepper
abound across the Netherlands. Most feature rookworst, a Dutch smoked sausage made of either pork, pork
Clean, trim and slice kale. Set aside.
While the pot containing water for the
Scrub, peel and quarter potatoes. Set
potatoes heats up, place sausages into
these aside too.
a large saucepan. Add just enough cold
and beef, or pork and veal. But any savory sausage will do.
water to cover the sausages. Cook on Put four quarts of water into a large pot.
medium high until the water begins to
Turn the heat to high and bring the water
simmer, about 6-8 minutes. Add a bit
to a boil.
more water if it evaporates.
66 Lake & Home Magazine SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2021
Remove sausages from the pan and set
Add enough oil to re-coat the pan. Keep
In a saucepan or pot (the one you used for
aside to cool. Discard extra water.
heat at medium high and add kale. Cover
the potatoes is fine), heat 1/3 cup milk and
and sauté for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
butter on medium low heat until the butter
By this point, the potato water should be boil-
melts and the mixture is hot. (Make sure it
ing. Carefully add the chopped potatoes to
Remove the lid, add salt and pepper to
the boiling water. Simmer uncovered on low
taste. Continue cooking for 2-3 minutes, until
heat for 10-15 minutes or until the potatoes
liquid evaporates. Remove from heat. Set
Fold hot butter into the potatoes. Add addi-
fall apart when you stick a fork in them.
kale aside.
tional ½ cup of milk bit by bit, until potatoes
As the potatoes are boiling, slice sausages
Drain potatoes. Place them in a large bowl
al salt and pepper, if desired. Place sliced
into coins. Add some oil to the pan you previ-
and mash them with a fork. Or use a food
sausage on top of the potatoes and serve
ously used for the sausages and turn heat to
mill, potato ricer or food processor to make
warm. ~L&H
medium high. Place sausages in the pan and
them even smoother.
doesn’t boil.) Remove from heat.
are creamy. Add kale, nutmeg and addition-
cook until seared on both sides, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
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D
DESIGNER PORTFOLIO
68 Lake & Home Magazine SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2021
T
here’s a long winding road lined with trees and thick bushes. Along the drive you can see bears climbing
the trees with a frozen look of glee, a mailbox that is shaped like a canoe, and further down is the gentle greeting on a wooden sign that offers a friendly; “Welcome to the Lake.” Sunshine and birdsong come to you through the branches where birdhouses in the form of colorful, classic campers dangle. The air is pleasant, and a wind chime announces the breeze. It sounds a bit like bamboo. The place where you park is marked with several upright logs bound in thick sailor’s rope, and a painted lifebuoy sign marked “Captain’s Parking.” At the door you wipe your feet on the sturdy welcome mat that has a black bear with arms wide open. This is a place where everything is familiar. Piece by piece over the years, your family has made this a bank of memories that are present in every stone or board.
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photo provided by Great Furniture Gallery
Whimsical style is based on the interest to let the mind and imagination wander, to reach out beyond the here and now, and perhaps to express something that cannot be presented with words alone. It’s such a big topic to explore with so many different substyles. Consider lake house whimsy alone; you may have seen the lake wall hanging that is made of four pictures which resemble the letters L-A-K-E, the bookshelf made from a small boat, or the canoe paddle with the homeowner’s name written in stylish letters. Perhaps you’ve caught a glimpse of the anchor print on pillows, a yard art lighthouse, varieties of black bear decorations, a beautifully recreated lake map, or a moose lamp in a hunting cabin. An outboard motor from a classic company might be placed in a position of honor by a collector.
See more from this feature home in our Jul/ Aug 2021 issue
photos center and right provided by The Market
Adding whimsy to your home is a simple matter of learning what you love about whimsical art, and placing it where it matters most. Are you more of a traditional lake house lover, or does something kitschy catch your fancy? Do you like the seaside? Are you a family of avid hunters? Maybe it’s a mix of things. Whatever it is that brings a smile to your heart, I can almost guarantee there’s a decoration that will represent it for you. 70 70 Lake Lake && Home Home Magazine Magazine SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2021
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Play ful
That cherished canoe weighing
If the lake means a place to play in the water, your whimsy might be related to boats, canoes, kayaks, or paddle boards. Water sports bring a sense of joy some may not have access to in their daily routines. A family on a boat ride can be seen with faces full of glee, and the Jet Skier feels an adrenaline rush from that healthy physical activity of fun. In the same respect, a calming pastime on the water like the paddle board can have immeasurable healing effects on the body and the mind comparable to the spiritual strengthening of a yoga exercise.
only 54 pounds, which is lighter than the average one, now hangs on its own cedar and rope swing diagonally across the main level. It can easily be lowered by two people giving the Mousers their second design requirement; easy access. The kitchen it watches over is a light and airy space with natural wood, and function that meets sleek forms. Insulation was added to the exterior allowing the exposed framing inside to become part of the design, showcasing the shiplap white. Katrina describes it nicely saying, “It’s a vintage/modern, coastal design.”
On West Battle Lake, a family created their own petite Scandinavian haven. The Mousers married in 2000, starting a wonderful journey together. Roger Rosengren, Katrina’s father, gifted the newlyweds with a truly beautiful canoe which inspired their remodel. They bought the lake house in 2017, and finished renovations in the fall of 2020. Knowing they wanted more space, and that the canoe was a key element, they made a plan. Because the owners association had certain restrictions for the property, they had to find a way to store the canoe inside. “We built the cabin around the canoe,” Katrina explained with a smile. The
Mousers
dove
into
the
remodel
themselves, with help from Tony Metcalf and Tim Hansen. They made a second level using
Cornerstone Cabinets & Countertops helped
to custom design and build the entire project
a unique and innovative method. Instead of
make their dream a reality by locating and
and we couldn’t be happier with the final
simply adding a second floor to the main
installing difficult to find birch cabinetry,
product.”
building, they lifted their cabin with the help
a type of wood they wanted specifically
of Hayden’s House Haulers to create a lower
for the Scandinavian appeal. “Working on
With every build, there are challenges. Not
level beneath. These two levels, and an
the Mousers cabin was one of my favorite
only did they need to fit the canoe inside
existing loft above the main floor created
projects because it was so challenging,”
due to the regulations, they also needed
the now three-level cabin they wanted. It
says Mike Thorson, owner of Cornerstone
to work with a shared electrical panel and
has room enough to sleep 11 for those times
Cabinets & Countertops. “The homeowners
the limited space for the main room. They
when family and friends will gather.
had a very specific aesthetic they wanted,
decided on a kitchen island to act as a
space was tight and function was at the
multi-use space where they sit for supper with
top of the must have list. In order to meet all
a set of 12 stackable stools. These can fill the
these requirements we knew we would have
room or take up just a small corner. Lastly,
72 Lake & Home Magazine SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2021
the Mousers were able to find a perfect twoburner stovetop that met the needs of the
Wistful
Jen started the Blue Barn shop six summers ago in 2016 where she can make delights
With a love of the beach, comes a plethora
come to life for others as well. She was drawn
of decorations that can include nautical
to the nautical themes when families from
Being no stranger to such challenges, the
rope knots, anchor print, a ship’s wheel,
the lakes came to her asking for pieces,
Mouser family participated in their first half
compass, sailboat, an image of a great ship
and needed a way to make the farmhouse
marathon jaunt on paddle boards in 2016,
on the ocean, and seashells. For some, a
style their own. It was only a matter of taking
and have done three more since. These
mermaid is a symbol from oceanic myth that
certain elements and exchanging one for
events were such memorable experiences
can bring some fantasy to reality, and a little
another in the same vein. Something as
for the family. Having to rent the paddle
fun by the water. Images of footprints in the
simple as changing out the milking bucket for
boards for the half marathons was becoming
sand are a subtle introduction for this style of
a minnow bucket would move the concept
too limited an access to the activity, so they
whimsy, and can be paired with a number of
from farm to lake. It reminds us that with this
decided it was a good idea to have their
famous, or personal quotes.
method of décor anything is possible, and we
lowered electrical usage.
own. Katrina got a set for her birthday. To
are only limited by our endless imagination.
find these, look no further than our favorite
Jen is a woman who was inspired to create,
Jen reflects on her journey, and tells us, “I love
view. The pair of playtime watercraft sit on a
and is no stranger to the art of whimsy. She
how you can pick what you love, and make
rack just above the lakeside windows, and
bought her first home in 2007, a historic house
your home your own. No one else is going to
completes the space. For the Mousers, lake
in Ottertail. She didn’t have a lot of extra
have the exact same piece.”
life is a place to be together and enjoy the
funds for decorating the interior, so she got
water.
inventive. She visited rummage sales, pulled
Thoughts of the sea draw people for many
pieces from the farm in Montana where she
reasons. The mystery of the deep, the thrill of
grew up, and fashioned displays that filled
being a part of something so powerful, creates
her home with wonder. “It’s almost a mixture
a sense of longing for that understanding
of farmhouse, lake and rustic styles,” Jen
beyond the horizon. Health and wellness resorts
explains. “They crossover and you can blend
are sometimes placed on the beach to make
them together.”
use of the total relaxation the location brings. Take a little time to bury your toes in the sand,
She will work with anything chipped or rusty
breathe deep that zesty salted air, and listen to
that exudes a sense of vintage. It may be
the waves, letting the sound flood through you.
easier to find reproduced pieces because
It can change your world in moments.
they are more popular now, but she always chooses the raw materials over those. There’s something authentic about a naturally aged board or a truly time worn rope. When people ask her about making decorations she tells them to use things that have sentimental value. Maybe it’s the bucket that’s been in the family for years and has been outside with flowers in it. Don’t be afraid to dump out the dirt and bring it inside. You can bring these in if it makes you happy, and create an ornament that connects you to a place or people you love.
photo provided by the Blue Barn
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Tradition
The hunting cabin is well represented with
A refurbished motor can be seen
carefully crafted wooden furniture, wall
on it’s own stand as a trophy if
mounts of an especially memorable trip,
found as a rare model or something
antler crafted items like a chandelier, and
used by someone you loved. It’s a
maybe antique guns in a display case. Bed
present memory.
sets, curtains, and throw pillows are familiar subjects to represent bears, moose or more.
Fish are abundant in whimsical designs. A
The friendly plaid is great on flannel sheets,
fountain could have a fish spout with colorful
for those cold nights. Fur rugs, hats, or seat
scales. There is a signature drink pitcher that
coverings are a luxurious way to bring in the
makes an endearing “glug” sound when
hunter’s aspects. The wooden crafted furniture
poured from the fish shaped design. Fish
could be from trees that were cleared on
have been incorporated as fabric design,
your lot during the build, or purchased as a
or even a mounted plaque that may or may
beautiful set.
not sing. Jovial, perhaps, but most certainly
photo provided by Periwinkle Marketplace
fun. Spending an entire day out in the peace
Hunting and fishing can bring us back to a time
If fishing is your sport, nets are a good bet
of the water and sunshine is a joy that comes
before supermarkets when we relied on these
for wall hangings. Antique fishing boats make
with a reward for patience, something that
skills to feed ourselves. A strength is found in
a wonderful statement piece if the room is
can get lost in day-to-day business.
knowing how to do what the hunter-gatherers
available. Water buoys, fishing poles or nets,
once did, a sense of pride and stability.
and of course the iconic fishing hat are all great uses for a whimsical decoration plan. There is an entire community that collects and discusses outboard motors throughout the years. You will not know the joy they get until you can see an entire set of Johnsons lined up in order of production year. Polished or not, it’s a very unique thing to see.
74 Lake 74 Lake && Home Home Magazine Magazine SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2021
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The Personal Touch Whimsy doesn’t tend to feel like a generic, or store bought way of having a little fun at the lake. You can make it completely yours. Add an aura of memory with a little family history. Have you ever seen a lake house with a name? It offers the idea that the place is alive, and it is! So much history can be added to a home when the name tells a story in itself. Picture in your mind family photos going back generations, lined up and down the hall in order of the year it was taken. A trunk from three or four generations of grandparents sits in the living room where treasured heirlooms are preserved for family to enjoy, talk about, and remember. These are just a few examples of an entire world that lives in your home, but so many lake homes are already stitched together with these pieces of family history. Cabins on Le Homme Dieu in Alexandria date back as far as the early 1900s. Bob Fricke and his family now summer in what was lovingly known as “Nebraska Row,” the first five cabins on the north shore of the lake that were built in 1907 and 1908. He tells us that “The Wiggenhorns and Frickes were shirt-
Bob learned of a lecture to Habitat-for-
Prison Industry workshops came a few of
Humanity from the 80s where a woman
these wicker pieces, and they’ve been in
described her time spent with the people
the family for years and years. Several of
at the lake in the early 1900s. He chuckled,
the other “Nebraska Row” cabins still house
explaining that while the Fricke visits had
the same kind of wicker pieces. This unique
such joyful gatherings that included people
furniture is stronger than those you see on the
dancing on the rooftop, the Wiggenhorn’s
market today. Another antique is the family’s
were a more reserved family. It must have
dining room table. They stripped away the
been quite a cohesive contrast. More than
paint and discovered that it had been in a
a century ago, this family laid down a
fire over a hundred years ago. It’s a mystery
foundation that lives and breathes through
exactly where and when, but our imagination
memories today.
could tell us a story.
As time passed the family tree grew larger,
Bob tells us about his father who loved to build
and the memories ripened there. Down the
models; “He was a bit of a radio enthusiast,
street to the east, you’ll see a neighboring
creating a very early radio controlled version.”
cabin where Bob’s cousin, Anne Drexler, now
Several models of his from the 50s still live at
summers. This was named by the German
the cabin. The model boats share a space
speaking intellectuals who owned it at the
with one that Bob made, and another he
time. They called it Waldheim, the name of
made with his son. They have four boats
a favorite place in Germany. His cousin on
now that hold great sentimental value from
the western side, Anne Blaise, owns a newer
generations past. There’s a pipe rack that
cabin.
whispers the story of a shocking memory. Bob’s mother recalled going out to her father’s
Pieces from as far back as the 20s or 30s can
workshop while he was building the rack, to
still be seen at the house, such as their prison
tell him the news of how the Japanese just
wicker. From the Nebraska State Penitentiary
bombed Pearl Harbor. Long gone, but never
tail relatives by marriage, and very good
forgotten.
friends. Both families migrated from Germany to the US in the 1870s. Grandmother Louise Wiggenhorn married grandfather Ed Fricke in the 20s.” Starting in 1909, F.G. Fricke, Bob’s greatgrandfather, took his family to stay at a rented cabin. Hugo, great-grandfather Wiggenhorn, brought his family in 1911. They went every summer after that, and the families ultimately decided to buy the cabins. It was clearly a match made in heaven, and the Fricke family has tended to Ashland Lodge since. The cabin earned its name early on, and the sound of it is now embedded into the wood and stone that live there.
See more from this feature home in our Nov/Dec 2019 issue
76 Lake & Home Magazine SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2021
Coming now to the present, we see that Bob
box of unpainted chairs, and the kids would
and his family are well practiced memory
have something nice to do together,” Bob
makers. In southwestern Wyoming there is
explained. Being creative himself, Bob made
a place called Green River 18 Inch Layer
nameplates for a few of their friends to put on
that has 18 inches of sandstone with many
the bedroom doors when they stayed at the
different fossils of flora and fauna you can
cabin. These mahogany boards are carved
dig up and take home with you. Collecting
with Viking runes to spell out their last name
a little history of their own, Bob and his family
adding a delightful personal touch, and they
harvested several fish specimens. The place
hang in the hallway until the friends return.
has a restoration facility called Green River Stone were they were able to plan and create
When you want to add a little whimsy to your
a singular backsplash for the cabin’s kitchen in
home,
their latest remodel. These fossils embedded
you love about the whimsical
into the tiles date back thousands of years,
art. Does it speak to something
and hold fast the tale of their family trip for
inside you? Does it fill you with
future storytellers.
glee, adventure, or a sense of
remember
to
discover
what
strength? Is it a piece that brings The Fricke’s share life with family and close
back a memory by just being there?
friends. Over the years the fellows have
When you know what you are looking for,
claimed a miniature Adirondack chair to
place it where it matters to let it become a
paint, and add to the collection. “When
part of your everyday life. Wish for a while and
there was a rainy day, we would take out the
we’ll wander in wonder at the wistful nature of
photo provided by the Williams Company Store
whimsy. ~L&H
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D
DO IT YOURSELF
A private space to read and relax is an attainable luxury. Creating a mini library is a project that you can adapt to a new build, a historic home, a summer cabin – even a rental. In most cases you can do the work yourself – no experts or big budgets required. There are four key elements that any reading space needs – storage, seating, lighting and reading material. (Remember, reading material doesn’t mean just books – stock up on graphic novels, magazines, newspapers, atlases or anything else you love.) Then find the mini library option that works best for you and your space, dedicate a few hours to the project and settle in to read and enjoy.
Make a Library Wall If you don’t have an entire room to dedicate to a library, try a library wall. You can install a shelf wherever you have some available wall space. Since seating matters in a library (no matter how small), make sure there’s a comfortable spot nearby. Living rooms, family rooms, a child’s room or a playroom are the most obvious places for a library wall, since chairs, cushions or couches are already located nearby. If you don’t have space for shelves in a room with established seating areas, think outside the box. Try installing thin shelves along a hallway, add reading materials to an office, guest room or music room. You can also extend shelves from floor to ceiling on a narrow accent wall or alcove. As long as there’s a place to sit with good light nearby, you’re set.
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Carve Out a Reading Nook If wall space is at a premium, look for underutilized zones and transitional spaces that can be reimagined as miniature libraries. Window seats, landings and interior entryways can be converted to reading nooks. You can also carve out a corner of a sunroom, screen porch, office, guest bedroom or master suite for this purpose. You don’t necessarily need to install traditional shelves to keep your reading material close at hand. Try tucking titles into an existing cabinet, hutch, or bureau. Low-slung cube organizers, storage ottomans, trunks and benches provide both storage space and extra seating. If you like to read while soaking in the bath, you can even commandeer a bathroom cabinet to stash your reading material. Just
don’t store anything too precious in damp areas – short-term reads like magazines are best.
Designate a Reading Room If you dream of a dedicated library space, re-examine the rooms you’re not using now and see if one is a candidate for a bookish makeover. You might use that spare room, parlor or even the formal dining room a lot more if you used it as a library instead. There’s no rule that you need to utilize the space for its original purpose. Tastes evolve and our lives do, too. You can also convert an attic or an unused part of the basement, even a shed, the third stall of a garage or the space under the stairs can make a magical library. Unfinished
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spaces like these may require more time and money to upgrade, since they might not have electricity, carpet, insulation or other creature comforts. But if a library is a priority, it’s well worth the effort. ~L&H
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D
DO IT YOURSELF
photo provided by Fergus Home & Hardware
Tabletops offer a lot of decorating space. But their potential is easy to overlook. Creating a tablescape (a combination of “table” and “landscape”) is a fun, and temporary, way to change a room’s look. And you don’t have to wait until you throw a dinner party to experiment. Here are a few techniques to try:
One big basket or bowl
If you’re nervous about decorating a table, start with something simple. Select your favorite tablecloth, top it with an oversized bowl or basket and you’re more than halfway there. Now you just have to fill it. Fruit is a go-to option, since it’s both visually appealing (no pun intended) and functional. But you can also fill a bowl or basket with dried flowers, small autumnal gourds, smooth river rocks, sea shells, round Christmas bulbs, wine corks or anything else that looks nice en masse. If a bowl is striking on its own, you may not even have to fill it. Handwoven baskets, handmade pottery and sculptural bowls are works of art in their own right. They’ll look striking even when they’re empty. Just make sure they’re large enough to hold their own as the table’s centerpiece.
Long and low
If you’re entertaining, a low arrangement that runs the length of the table is a classic choice. You can also borrow the technique to freshen up a rectangular coffee table, sideboard or dresser, since the lowslung arrangement mirrors the lines of the furniture.
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up the colors and textures of the room, but they don’t necessarily have to match each other. In fact, it’s almost better if they don’t. Contrasting colors, textures and finishes really make this look pop. Choose objects that are three different heights. Just like in a family photo, the tallest goes in the back. The other two pieces nestle in front. For most tables, three items is more than enough – five will look too cluttered. This set-up holds its own in rooms with very high ceilings, like great rooms and open concept dining rooms. It also adds visual weight to small or square dining tables and really makes a side table pop. ~L&H Start with your favorite tablecloth. Then layer a long, narrow piece of fabric on top of the tablecloth. This can be a traditional table runner. Or you can experiment with dresser scarves, fabric remnants in bold patterns, woven textiles or the type of scarf designed to be worn. Then add accent pieces. Groupings of odd numbers are the most soothing, so start with three pieces and increase to five, seven or even nine for a particularly long table. The decorative elements should be similar in color, size and shape, so the eye moves over them without stopping. Tea lights and small votives add ambiance, while short bouquets make a party feel festive. (Just be sure they’re short enough that guests can make eye contact across the table.) Tiny dishes of shells or pebbles, small, intriguing sculptures from your art collection or even small baskets or pottery can look pretty in this arrangement.
Tall groupings of three
The odd number rule also works well for taller arrangements. To start, find three sculptural objects you really love. They don’t have to be sculptures – pottery, antiques, candles, vases, candleholders, bottles and anything with a little height will do. Each item should pick
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D
DESIGNER PORTFOLIO
M
aking your home or lake cabin a personal reflection of style and comfort can be elevated with customized upholstery and the addition of exterior awnings. The areas within your home or cabin that you can add comfort to are endless. Developing coordinating décor that creates a cohesive design can be achieved by the talents of Custom Upholstery & Awning Center. LOCATED IN THE HEART OF MINNESOTA LAKES COUNTRY IN BRAINERD, THIS LOCAL UPHOLSTERY COMPANY HAS A LONG-STANDING HISTORY OF PROVIDING QUALITY SERVICE ALONG WITH OUTSTANDING CRAFTSMANSHIP WITH EACH DESIGN THEY CREATE.
WHAT IS THE STORY BEHIND THE CREATION OF CUSTOM UPHOLSTERY & AWNING CENTER? Judy and Dave Cruikshank (the original owners of Custom Upholstery) brought with them a lifetime of experience in 1988 when they opened their business in Nisswa, Minn. The company solely focused on upholstery work in the beginning, and they excelled in this market. In 1993, Gary Cruikshank (who is the current owner of Custom Upholstery & Awning Center) introduced awnings and shades into the business. With the additional growth of offering more choices for our customers, we began to outgrow the original shop in Nisswa. We eventually made the move to a new building in Brainerd, Minn., in 1999, where we continue to serve our community.
HOW MANY TEAM MEMBERS COMPRISE CUSTOM UPHOLSTERY & AWNING CENTER? We have an amazing team of 12 on staff, that have a combined total of 250 years of experience in this industry. The expertise that is contained within the walls of our shop cover everything from basic upholstery needs to marine upholstery, as well as awning work.
Serving Minnesota and Beyond! With a combined experience level of approximately 250 years, our employees are all specialists in their field and proudly recognize quality in their work. Whether it’s awnings, power screens, stackable windows, or upholstery we have ability and experience to take care of your needs at any level.
HOW DO YOU MAKE THE DESIGN PROCESS EASIER FOR YOUR CLIENTS?
HOW CAN AN AWNING IMPROVE THE WAY ONE USES THEIR OUTDOOR SPACE?
We have a design program to help our clients in the awning part of the business. When we utilize this program, it allows us to understand exactly what they are looking for and to bring it to life.
An awning allows you to utilize your outdoor space with the enjoyment of shade from the sun. Most people only have shade during set times during the day, and their time outdoors can be very limited as a result. We are here to help bring back that shade, to increase the enjoyment of your outdoor space while also bringing style to the exterior of your home.
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IS THERE ONE PARTICULAR FEATURE OR DESIGN ELEMENT THAT CLIENTS LOVE ABOUT YOUR AWNINGS? On new construction or remodels, we have the ability to have our power screen units built-into the home allowing for a clean, finished look.
DO YOU HAVE A FAVORITE UPHOLSTERY DESIGN THAT STANDS OUT FROM THE REST? All of our designs are special and unique in their own way.
WHAT IS THE MOST COMMON UPHOLSTERY REQUEST THAT YOU RECEIVE?
written by Andrea Canning
We specialize in boat and pontoon restorations. Every winter we take in roughly 30 pontoons and boats! Our company works year round to help our customers achieve their upholstery visions.
All-Season Use And Wind Resistant WHAT IS THE MOST GRATIFYING PART OF CREATING CUSTOMIZED UPHOLSTERY FOR YOUR CLIENTS? When a customer brings in a 100-year-old chair that has been in their family, and we are able to upholster it so it can live on and be enjoyed for another 100 years — seeing the smile and happiness when the customer sees the re-upholstered family heirloom is worth it all!
WHAT IS THE AVERAGE LENGTH OF TIME FOR THE COMPLETION OF AN AWNING INSTALLATION? The timeline for awnings is typically 4 to 6 weeks, depending on our manufacturer’s lead time.
WHAT DESIGN TREND IS EMERGING FOR 2021 THAT YOU HAVE FALLEN IN LOVE WITH? The restoration of older or vintage pontoons is always a favorite for us. Customers can save a lot of money by choosing refurbishment,
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and are able to create unique designs and customizable layouts.
WHAT CAN A CLIENT EXPECT FROM YOUR COMPANY? Custom Upholstery & Awning Center prides itself on being transparent and having clear and open communication with our staff and our valued customers.
WHAT IS THE BEST WAY TO BEGIN A DESIGN PROJECT WITH YOU? The best way to begin the process is by emailing photos to us of your project. This is always a great place to start. We can look at the photos, give a general outline of pricing, and begin to share ideas of how to create exactly what you need. We look forward to hearing from you! ~L&H
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Canvas Tops & Upholstery For All Watercrafts
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F
FEATURE HOME
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P
aul Lake near Perham has a special spot in Kenna Dooley’s heart. She’s been coming here her whole life.
“This land has been in my mom’s family since the 60s,” she explains. “When grandpa bought this land, it wasn’t even developed. There were no roads, no infrastructure.” Kenna’s grandparents developed the property and built a small resort, which prospered. Spending long, lazy days on the water and nights in small summer cottages became a summer tradition for many families, who returned year after year. The resort was a fixture in Kenna’s family’s life too.
“This is where my mom spent her childhood summers,” she explains. ”After my grandparents passed away, my parents bought the resort in the late 80s. So then, for my brother and me, that’s what our summers were about – cleaning cabins, weeding the beach, keeping the candy store stocked, cleaning the fish house.” The resort bustled along until high water levels changed the shoreline in the early 2000s. Paul Lake lacks an outlet, so Kenna’s parents battled the waters, eventually moving the cabins to higher ground. When the water retreated and Paul Lake settled into its new boundaries, her parents were ready to scale back. A smaller, more laid-back version of the resort is still operational. And no, they’re not taking reservations – the wait list is a decade long. Fewer cabins and more space meant that some of the family’s land along the shoreline was up for grabs – a rarity on this small and very popular body of water. With past flooding in mind, Kenna and her husband Adam selected a site that had always been higher ground. The mature trees on the site gave it a sense of permanence. Kenna has deep roots in this particular spot.
“There’s just so much history here, for our family and this land. My parents still live up the road from us and my brother is next door.” Kenna Dooley - homeowner
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“There’s just so much history here, for our family and this land,” she says. “My parents still live up the road from us and my brother is next door. This is where I would play kick the can and play ghosts in the graveyard and climb trees. We caught turtles to take to the races in town. I love that our kids get to experience many of these same things now too.” The three Dooley children (two girls, ages 10 and 9, and a 6-year-old boy) took to lake life like fish to water. The pace is slower here. (“We don’t do much – which is kind of the point,” Kenna says with a laugh.) The Dooley family’s days are a throwback to a more easygoing time where children flitted back and
forth between the homes of friends and family members and everyone spent more time outdoors.
“The kids are just in the water all day,” says Kenna with a smile. “They go up to grandma and grandpa’s or head to my brother’s. My mom will text about 4 o’clock and say, ‘What are we doing for dinner?’ And I’ll do a main dish, she’ll bring a side dish and my brother will bring a dessert. The neighbor kids across the road have a softball field, so three different families come together after dinner, hitting balls and playing softball and baseball.”
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This easygoing sense of community was exactly what Kenna and Adam wanted to cultivate when they built their lake home here. They wanted a house that would make it easy to connect and spend time together, while also blurring the lines between indoors and out. It was important that the whole family had a connection to the community and a say in how the new cabin functioned. Although the family also resides in the Twin Cities, Kenna graduated from Perham High School. Adam has established his own relationships through Lakeside Golf Club and his parents, sisters, brothers-in-law and nieces and nephews enjoy the cabin every Fourth of July. These traditions and relationships make a house into a home. The couple had a strong vision for how they wanted their new home to function. After a vacation to Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard,
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Kenna knew how it would look as well. She fell in love with nautical touches like round windows, cedar shakes and a clean, blue and white palette and knew they would incorporate these natural touches in their new home. The next step was finding a builder who would make their vision a reality. They didn’t have to look far; Perham’s Hemmelgarn Builders Inc., was a perfect fit. It’s a third-generation business, a partnership of fathers and sons that has been building homes in the region since 1967. The father and son team of Jim and Troy Hemmelgarn worked on the Dooley home together. The collaboration worked well from the start. “We have built more than the average bear,” Kenna says with a laugh. “Adam built a condo just before we met and we built our first
and second home together– and we’ve only been married twelve years. In all three of those cases, the process was basically ‘pick a floor plan.’ It could not have been any more different building with Troy. I saved some of the original sketches. We literally started with a blank piece of paper, started drawing and then he’d put it in his computer program. I think Adam and I both really thrived with that kind of flexibility and freedom and creativity.” The exchange of ideas didn’t always happen in the office or in front of a computer. More often, a flurry of texts and photos sparked a new direction. “We’d come up with unorthodox ideas and would text an example photo to Troy, and his answer was always, ‘We can probably make something like that work,’” says Kenna. “In the
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“They had a great vision from the start. They are great communicators, which helped the project flow well from start to finish. We were able to work closely as a team.” Troy Hemmelgarn - Hemmelgarn Builders
“They had a great vision from the start,” he says. “They are great communicators, which helped the project flow well from start to finish. We were able to work closely as a team, as Adam did many projects himself including the tile for the master bath. We were very impressed with his work. Not only did we appreciate the floorplan, we feel they did an excellent job with the design elements. The home is a mix of traditional and modern design with a touch of coastal décor.”
age of Pinterest, those texts could become pretty annoying for builders, but Troy was always open to thinking outside the box and trying something new, and he consistently delivered.” The admiration was mutual. Hemmelgarn says the unorthodox design process was a breeze.
Those small touches bring their interpretation of the Minnesota nautical look to life. The round window on the lakeside provides that coastal accent Kenna wanted. And the black sashed Marvin Windows (sourced through Franklin Fence in Vergas) make windows fade from view, allowing the lake to take center stage. LP prefinished straight shake siding (also sourced from Franklin Fence and installed by the Hemmelgarn team), white cabinets, natural wood elements and blue accents evoked the water in a subtle manner while letting the space breathe.
-HORIZONTAL / DIRECTIONAL DRILLING -PUMPS & REPAIR -CAMERA INSPECTION -WELL ABANDONMENT ABABDINMENT -HORIZONTAL BORING -IRRIGATION WELLS UP TO 12’’
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Hemmelgarn wasn’t the only Perham connection in this design project. The Dooleys reached out to old friends when it was time to build their lake place near their old hometown. “Essers Plumbing & Heating did all our work here. They live right up the road, so I grew up riding the bus with their kids,” says Kenna. “Eric Ruther did the excavating and well drilling. We graduated high school together. Danielle from B&D Granite did our indoor and outdoor countertops and we also went to high school together. It wasn’t like these were referrals; these were people that I have known and grown up with and had a lot of trust in.”
Building the Dooley home required the help of some old friends. It also created a new friendship between the family and their builder. “Troy has become more of a friend than just a builder/contractor we hired to build our cabin,” says Adam. “He and their team consistently went out of their way to make sure everything was perfect. It wasn’t just ‘build it and forget it.’ They have always been very available, great at follow-up and even though they are very busy, more than happy to take on smaller projects like our porch build. More so than our other builds, it’s been a very enjoyable process working with Hemmelgarn and all the local contractors.”
The builder and homeowners left a few spaces in the three-bedroom, three-bathroom, 2,812-square-foot home open and flexible, so the Dooleys could see how best to use the space once they’d lived in it for a while (more on that later). The result was a comfortable, well-designed lake house that utilizes space efficiently. “The main level consists of a master bedroom with a bathroom, living room, dining room and kitchen area,” explains Hemmelgarn. “The foyer connects to the two-story open living room with multiple windows that take advantage of their beautiful lake views. The second story staircase opens to a lofted living area. Above the kitchen and dining room are two full bedrooms and a full bath. One of our favorite features includes the kitchen window that opens to serve food and drinks on the deck.”
That pass-through window was one of the unique ideas that the Dooleys brought to the table. It turned out even better than they envisioned. “That was an idea from friends that live in Arizona,” explains Kenna. “Not surprisingly, they’re big on indoor/outdoor living. We thought it would be cool for the kids to just come up from the lake and not have to go inside to eat. And we didn’t think of this at the time, but it’s become really handy for grilling. We just put the grill out there and pass things back and forth.” The bunkroom tucked under the eaves of the garage is another crowd-pleaser that came together even better than expected. It’s the kids’ favorite place and resulted from a little improvisation. The original goal was to use a set of bunk beds from Kenna’s parents’ resort, but the rooflines made that impossible. So the couple sat down with Hemmelgarn and sketched out how many custom-built beds they could fit inside.
“He and their team consistently went out of their way to make sure everything was perfect. It wasn’t just ‘build it and forget it.’ It’s been a very enjoyable process working with Hemmelgarn and all the local contractors.” Adam Dooley - homeowner
They could have added even more, but they decided to leave a little room to grow. That “wait and see philosophy” worked well for another of the house’s most distinctive zones – an outdoor screened-in patio on the home’s lake-facing side. It includes a gas fireplace, an outdoor TV and a 22-foot-long phantom retractable screen (an idea they borrowed from Adam’s uncle, who has one at his lake home too) to enclose the area as needed. Taking the extra time to determine what they wanted from this space was the right move. “We didn’t know what we were going to do with it,” Kenna explains. “Quite frankly, we had exceeded our budget and we just kept it open for the first couple years. I think if we would have finished it right away, we would have done it wrong. Until we lived here a couple of years, I don’t think we really knew what kind of functionality we needed.”
Functionality was a key concept in the Dooley home. There are some decorative flourishes, including eye-catching light fixtures, Minnesota-themed art and textiles and a reclaimed wood credenza in the great room. Some of the wood accents are super local – Hemmelgarn fashioned the open shelves in the kitchen and the mantel over the fireplace in the great room from trees harvested just outside of Perham. But the interior has a collected, pleasantly lived-in quality that was absolutely by design. Most of the furniture and décor is from the Dooley’s primary home or purchased from friends, so it goes together without feeling too fussy. Kenna insisted on an oversized kitchen island so big groups could gather. The couch in the great room is large enough to fit the whole family and friends. She even sourced super durable, waterproof flooring from Home Depot so everyone would have one less thing to worry about. 100 Lake & Home Magazine SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2021
“I think if we would have finished it right away, we would have done it wrong. Until we lived here a couple of years, I don’t think we really knew what kind of functionality we needed.” Kenna Dooley - homeowner “When we have friends and relatives over, the parents are always telling the kids to dry their feet before they come inside,” she says. “We don’t want anyone to stress about that. To us, that’s kind of the point of a summer place.”
CouLDn’t have done it without: Hemmelgarn Builders Inc.
| BUILDER, ARCHITECT, INSULATION, INSTALLATION, SIDING • View our ad on page 93
Johnson & Son Well Drilling A-N-A Concrete B & D Granite
| MASONRY
| COUNTER TOPS
Esser Plumbing and Heating
| HVAC, PLUMBING
• View our ad on page 97
Home Depot
| FLOORING, APPLIANCES, CABINETS
Gary Bounds Drywall Januszewski Electric Rutner Excavating
The Dooley summer place on Paul Lake is stress-free by design. By connecting with the past, Kenna and Adam have preserved the easy-going, family-focused lake lifestyle they love. And by designing a house that emphasizes indoor/outdoor living and low-key gathering places, they’ve made a home that will be enjoyed for generations to come. ~L&H
| WELL
• View our ad on page 97
| DRYWALL
| ELECTRICAL
| EXCAVATING
Franklin Fence Co. Inc.
| BUILDING MATERIALS, LP SHAKES, WINDOW INSTALL
• View our ad on page 93
T-N-L Services Heat & Glo
| GUTTERS
| FIREPLACE
Ottertail Glass
| SHOWER DOORS
• View our ad on page 101
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F
FEATURE HOME
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A
lthough Denise and Todd Saatzer’s new home in the Brainerd Lakes area was completed in 2020, the inspiration for their French Country-inspired property began many years prior. As Denise continued to collect photos of home styles she liked, gradually the vision for the home came together. The Saatzers’ prior residence was in the same area, but was a smaller, more modest home. It was near a lake, but not on actual beachfront. “We have lived in the same house for 37 years. It was built in 1980. We both grew up on lakes and wanted a lake home that was not the Northwoods cabin style,” Denise said. She also added that for that entire time, they were boat owners who had a view of Lake Margaret, but who took their boat to an access point to drop in each time they wanted to be on the water. Lakefront property topped their list of desires for several reasons, including the ability to dock their boat and use it freely and easily.
Once it was time to gather all of the inspiration photos and ideas and begin the design-build process, the Saatzers reached out to Nor-Son Custom Builders in Baxter, Minn., to bring that vision into reality. Amy Dirkes of Nor-Son was the studio lead/ architect on the Saatzer home and started the design process in 2019, working with the Saatzers to take their ideas and help to create a lakeshore property that would reflect their love of French Country architecture and décor. “We worked together to develop a design that was balanced,” Dirkes commented. “What we achieved was excellent asymmetry. The space is efficiently utilized and we built a comfortable home that allowed for a large garage and enough living space that there is room for guests and entertaining.” The garage has been finished with an epoxy floor and powdercoating, taking it from a standard concrete space to a more polished area.
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“The space is efficiently utilized and we built a comfortable home that allowed for a large garage and enough living space that there is room for guests and entertaining.” Amy Dirkes // Nor-Son
“We designed the dining space around a beautiful table and six chairs that the homeowners purchased prior to doing the home design.” Amy Dirkes // Nor-Son
The Saatzer home is a three-bedroom, threeand-a-half bath dwelling that has 2,481 square feet of living space, plus an oversized, 1,083-square-foot garage. All bedrooms have a bathroom en suite and the guest spaces occupy the second floor, allowing the main level to be devoted to the master suite and main living areas. There is a wellequipped exercise space, covered stoop, on-grade patio, and a sizable laundry/mudroom, making the home an easy to live in, easy-to-care-for house the Saatzers love. “Our kids are grown and we wanted room for them when they come to stay, but a home that is for the two of us to live in comfortably,” Denise remarked. This included emphasis on a master suite that was private, which was achieved by designing a short hallway with a door, serving as an entry to a lead-in space into the suite. The master bedroom is light,
airy, and bright while being a cozy spot to rest. A custom barn door accents the closet area and the large en suite bath provides plenty of storage and vanity space, along with a modern-traditional look in hardware and cabinets. Dirkes explained that there is a trend she is seeing with custom homeowners where they aren’t as interested in having a huge house with multiple rooms they never or rarely use. “Clients want something cozy and livable, but with enough room for an open concept kitchen and living area. With this home, we worked carefully to ensure enough square footage for the house as well as the large garage area, and we designed the dining space around a beautiful table and six chairs that the homeowners purchased prior to doing the home design.” That table and chairs fit perfectly in the streamlined décor of the
home and are complemented by a curved area complete with tall windows framing the lake. “Back 10 or 12 years ago, many clients had the mindset that bigger was better. Now, we are seeing a focus on enough space to fit the family’s lifestyle, but a bigger concentration on higher-end finishes. People are investing their budget differently,” Dirkes said. “It’s trading extra square
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footage for the ability to select what they really want to see in the finished product.” With 100 feet of lakeshore, the Saatzer home is positioned perfectly to offer exceptional views throughout the day and into the sunset hours. Originally, the Saatzers purchased a bare lot that included a bit of topography to work around and selected certain trees to keep on the property. When they began working with Dirkes and the Nor-Son team, this included visits to the property to analyze the area and identify what would be needed in order to bring forth the desired layout and look to the house and surrounding yard. “Because the Saatzers had a clear picture of what they wanted and had spent significant time filtering through their ideas, it made it easier to move in the right direction on over-
all design,” Dirkes explained. “I like my clients to have input. We can take one floor plan and change it to look totally different, while staying within budget and planned square footage. From there, the materials selection process and finishes illustrate what the home will look like in the end.” Denise had a realization in the design process that by sifting through so many finishes, photos, and design ideas, it helped her discover what she truly likes and her own personal style. “Those design sessions set the tone for the project,” she commented, “and it was wonderful to have knowledgeable, skilled help to clarify the look we wanted.”
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“Those design sessions set the tone for the project, It was wonderful to have knowledgeable, skilled help to clarify the look we wanted.” Denise Saatzer // homeowner
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One of this home’s more unique areas is its kitchen. The metal stove hood surround is a fully-customized piece designed by Brainerd-based Chariot Customs. The company also designed the custom railing system for the stairs leading to the second floor. A large, double-loaded island that includes functional storage and room for six chairs is the heart of the kitchen. A pantry nook was added around the corner of the kitchen, in lieu of a closet, which is more common as a pantry space. Situated in the area that is en route to the laundry and mudroom, it is tucked away from the main area, yet easily accessible while cooking and having gatherings. Although the space is not large, there is ample seating with the six-seat island and the dining table and six chairs. The main great room and kitchen is entirely open, allowing guests to move from the eating area to the lounge space, which is comfortably furnished and features warm, inviting accents. The dry bar in the kitchen/dining area was designed to blend with the main cabinetry, a stained knotty alder, but has enough of its own style that it stands out as an eye-catching element of the home. Rich in character and a spark of interest, it is equipped with wine and beverage fridges, ice makers, counter space, and storage cabinets. A front-panel look on the main cabinets transitions to the beaded panel of the dry bar. This allows for a coordinated appearance, and with the added glass accents and lighting of the bar area, it is what Dirkes describes as a piece of furniture rather than cabinetry. She particularly likes the backsplash that was chosen for the bar space as it is simpler and unique, with metallic accents and tiles of different styles. It was selected to stay in the same colorway as the rest of the space and blend, yet offer texture and a break from the main kitchen. “It worked out beautifully,” Dirkes stated. “It is just enough change from the main tile of the kitchen to make its own impact.”
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For Denise, particular aspects of the home and property stand out as favorites. “I love the stucco exterior and that was something I always wanted. I think the custom metal stove hood surround is incredible and the views we have being at a slight incline over the lake are outstanding. The roof’s black shingles are a standout for me and also the cabinets in the kitchen are that perfect ‘rustic modern’ look I wanted.” But beyond these, Denise commented that the top of her “favorites list” has to be the roof lines and dimensions. She said, “There is such a uniqueness to the house, the shape of it. Our previous house wasn’t anything special in terms of architecture and it’s wonderful to have this one-of-akind place to call home.” This active couple, entrepreneurs who are busy with work and who love to come home and relax, now have a game room, exercise area, privacy from guest quarters, main-floor living, and a space that flows elegantly from the interior to exterior. Outside, the well-appointed patio serves as another room during parties or for evening relaxation and dining.
With a fire pit, eating area, and outdoor kitchen, the patio was designed with landscaping in mind to create a blended appearance that has warmth, character and efficiency. The Saatzers selected a number of special finishes with the guidance and recommendations of Maiah Maki, designer at NorSon. These details include custom doors in distressed knotty alder by Brainerd Door & Woodwork, as well as pre-finished engineered floors in handscraped, sanded and stained Plantation Beech. Additionally, the home features unique timber characteristics, accent lighting and flared eave lines. Beautiful Royal White granite countertops complement the kitchen cabinets of knotty alder in a chocolate finish, done in a full overlay door style.
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CouLDn’t have done it without: Nor-Son Custom Builders
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Lambert Water Wells Expert Insulation Alters Masonry
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North Country Plumbing & Heating Denise selected the cabinet stain herself and when the first round of staining didn’t quite meet the look she had in mind, she had the cabinets stained again. This time it was a stunning outcome and one that aligned with the intended look. Dirkes oversaw the overall project, but it was Denise’s crystal clear vision that made the selection of finishes come together. Denise worked with Maki to find the perfect finishes that would all coordinate and Dirkes credits her for being a focused and conscientious client. “She knew what she wanted to see,” Dirkes said. “It’s a breath of fresh air when you have a client who can articulate their vision through images or a quick phone call.”
Warner Drywall
Eric’s Excavating Inc. Espky Woodworking
| ELECTRICAL
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Western Products Inc.
| METAL SOFFIT AND FASCIA
Up North Fireplace Gallery
| FIREPLACE
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Fabulous Glass LLC
| SHOWER DOORS
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Anderson Bros Construction
| ASPHALT PAVING
Chariot Custom Metal Design For Denise and Todd, the finished product is their forever home. “It is a home that we truly enjoy,” Denise said. “We are so happy here and glad we did this; we only wish we had done it sooner! Don’t wait; do it while you can enjoy life and play. Living at the lake is refreshing and you just need to make the move.” ~L&H
| PLUMBING
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Vision Electrical Services
RW Stucco
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| VENT HOOD, METAL RAILING
“There is such a uniqueness to the house, the shape of it. Our previous house wasn’t anything special in terms of architecture and it’s wonderful to have this one-of-a-kind place to call home.” Denise Saatzer // homeowner
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F
FEATURE HOME
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T
he Brainerd lakes land where the new custom home of Brent and Traci Potvin is nestled into 300 acres represents the fourth generation of the Schilling family, Brent’s mother’s side, having their homestead on the property. The nearly 5,000-square-foot house built by Brainerd-based Hy-Tec Construction was completed in 2021 and features five bedrooms plus three full baths. After temporarily living as a family in Brent’s grandparents’ 2,100-square-foot home on the same plot of land while the home was built, moving in was a breath of fresh air. A 1,000-square-foot, three-stall garage is attached to the house. The Potvins, a family of six, including three young sons and a young daughter, were living in the home where Brent’s grandfather and grandmother lived and built themselves, prior to the grandfather’s passing in 2019 and the grandmother moving to an apartment in town until her passing in 2021. Still housing their belongings plus those of Brent and Traci’s family made for tight quarters. “It was crowded and we were very ready to have space to move around and to create a space for our kids.”
Traci Potvin is a teacher, while Brent, who works for Anderson Brothers, knows the construction world after several years in the asphalt business. Brent knew whom to talk to when it was time to design a new home. Well acquainted with the Hy-Tec team, his cousin Mitch Feierabend, an owner of Hy-Tec, was his first call. That was in February of 2020 and by June of last year, the Potvins were listing their home in Baxter, which sold in a week. Suddenly, they had one month to move out, hence the quick and temporary relocation into the grandparents’ property. “It was quick and we had to move fast, but it was worth it. We went from in-town living to the country overnight,” Brent commented. Andy and Sarah Waletzko served as the designers and Troy Palmer was superintendent on the Potvin project. These members of the Hy-Tec team worked together to kick off the house build in April 2020, identifying what would fit the Potvin family’s lifestyle and working with them to find unique features to include. They landed on resources that were unexpected and also the foundation of a rich story of family legacy that serve as the foundation of this new property.
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“We were very ready to have space to move around and to create a space for our kids.” Brent Potvin | Homeowner
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In 1930, Brent’s great-grandparents, his great-grandmother pregnant with Brent’s grandfather, first rented and later purchased the land where the new home now sits. Brent’s grandfather built and operated a sawmill there, along with having their family home on the acreage until he retired. He sold the property to Brent’s father in the summer of 2019. Eventually, the sawmill was sold and torn down, but some of its materials and inventory were saved, unbeknownst to Brent until he found stacks of wood tucked away in an outbuilding. He estimates that the wood had been there for at least 30 years. “We took everything we could, that we thought might work to use in the new house, we were hoping to be able to utilize some of it for trim or have one room in the house that was dedicated to my grandfather. What we got was beyond our wildest dreams” he said. The wood, representing nine different species (ash, clear aspen, yellow birch, maple, knotty alder, red oak, white oak, butternut, and knotty white pine) was transported to Brainerd Hardwoods
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“We went from in-town living to the country overnight.” Brent Potvin | Homeowner
to be milled. The results were outstanding and the Potvins now have a home rich with history and multiple woods that create a special, one-of-a-kind aesthetic. “We used the reclaimed wood on ceilings, floors, and doors,” Andy Waletzko commented. Troy Palmer added that the unique designs that were implemented even included two species of wood being used on the same door, with one species facing out, the other on the interior side of the door. “This was something I hadn’t seen before,” Palmer noted. “It came out looking really good and it’s a special attribute of the home.” Brent agreed, stating, “We didn’t even know if this wood was usable and had no clue what it even looked like. What we ended up with is something we’re really happy with and was way beyond what we were hoping for; we love it.” Completed in just over a year and built during the COVID-19 pandemic, Palmer said the house build moved along smoothly, hitting just slight delays here and there due to shipping stalls and slowdowns. “Overall, the build went considerably well. There weren’t huge delays or issues.” The Potvins loved working with the Hy-Tec team, with Brent commenting, “Andy and Sarah made our lives so easy. And Troy, plus Ryan and Luke on his crew, they were there every day working. They have become more like family and we were grateful to have them creating our dream home.”
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“Andy and Sarah made our lives so easy. And Troy, plus Ryan and Luke on his crew, they were there every day working. They have become more like family and we were grateful to have them creating our dream home.” Brent Potvin | Homeowner
The house features an open concept kitchen and living area that has been designed for entertaining, carefully planned for a family with four active kids. Included in the kitchen space is a 10-foot island that has space for children to eat and do activities from artwork to homework. It is a fully functional space with granite top that matches the countertops throughout the kitchen, and has storage space to tuck away cookware, utensils, and small appliances. The family room in the walkout lower level is one that is used constantly by the Potvin boys. Tsdhere, they have a large couch and seating area, a big screen TV, custom hockey lockers, a shooting game, and room to move. The three boys and Brent are hockey players and fans and the family area reflects their love of the sport. “We love the family room because it gives our kids room to just relax, play, and have fun. Plus, it allows us to be in a separate part of the house and enjoy quiet, peaceful time,” Brent said. “They love it and we get to relax as a couple upstairs; everyone has their space.”
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Along with the main living area, Brent and Traci also have a large master suite that is cozy and comfortable, making it a restful landing pad after a long day of work and taking care of the kids, who are 11 and younger. “We’re a busy, active family,” Brent stated, “and this house is perfect for us because we can live in it comfortably and with room to do what we want without getting in the way of one another.” The outdoors are important to the Potvins and the boys in particular are in heaven exploring their acreage each day. The countryside has offered the family peace and freedom, far beyond what they ever imagined while living in town. “We had no idea how much we would quickly love and embrace this way of life,” said Brent. “It’s the best and it fits us perfectly.”
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Outdoor living is also enjoyed on the Potvins’ patio, where there is a grill area and a firepit. The Hy-Tec team gifted the family a custom ring for the firepit and it features an image of hockey sticks, the family name, and an antler motif, customizing the ring to reflect their love of hockey, family time, and hunting. “It was completely unexpected and is a really special gift to us,” Brent said. Now, it is Brent’s hope that the fifth generation of Potvins, his kids, will want to one day purchase the property and keep it in the family. “This is our forever home and we want our kids to love this place as much as Traci and I do,” Brent explained. “We’re lucky to have a big family and a legacy here; we just want that to continue.” ~L&H
“We’re lucky to have a big family and a legacy here; we just want that to continue.” Brent Potvin | Homeowner
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CouLDn’t have done it without: CouLDn’t have done it without: Hy-Tec Construction
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BUILDER, ARCHITECT, INTERIOR DESIGN, MASONRY
• View our ad on page 117
Reid’s Backhoe / Northland Drilling Expert Insulation
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Crosslake Sheetmetal Inc.
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Chileen Painting
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Brent & Traci Potvin MCI Carpet One
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North Country Plumbing & Heating / Gerhards Sibbert Drywall LLC Jim’s Electric Co.
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Anderson Brothers LLC Builders FirstSource
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Brainerd Hardwoods
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Schroeder’s Appliance Center Northridge Woodworking Select Seamless
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Heat & Glo / Crosslake Sheetmetal Inc. Fabulous Glass LLC
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photos by Jill Ockhardt Blaufuss
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F
FEATURE HOME
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“Brandi and I have worked together for years. This has become a very natural pairing and process for us. We were both excited at the prospect of now employing our craft for Brandi and her family. I knew Brandi would keep us on our toes!” David Reid // Radiant Homes
Brandi and Justin Youngmark have owned a cabin on Big Cormorant Lake since 2013. Although their main residence is in Fargo, lake life has become a central part of their family. Summer sunsets on the deck, meeting friends at the sandbar, sharing meals hot off the grill with their guests, watching their kids grow into adept young wake surfers, are all meaningful memories that have been made at the lake. This year, it was finally time to replace the small 1952 cabin with a new lake home that would better reflect the life they have built at the lake, represent their sense of design, and allow for decades of more memories to be made. Like many local lake homes from the 1950s, the concrete block foundation was deteriorating, posing significant structural and water intrusion issues for the walkout basement. Fortunately, the main floor of the cabin still held some value, and the Youngmarks were able to have it moved off site and “re-homed” for another family on a different lake. Then began the process of crafting a lake home perfectly designed for their family of five.
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As owner of Brandi Youngmark Interior Design in Fargo, Brandi is lauded by her clients for her skill and services in developing and perfecting floorplans. Driven by a passion for architecture, and equipped with a solid background in construction, she took to the drawing board and developed the initial floor plans and elevation (exterior) concepts with hand sketches. From the beginning, Brandi had recruited Radiant Homes as the builder to help bring her vision to life. “Brandi and I have worked together for years,” explains David Reid, owner and president of Radiant Homes, who builds and renovates homes in Fargo and the lakes area of Minnesota. “This has become a very natural pairing and process for us. We were both excited at the prospect of now employing our craft for Brandi and her family. I knew Brandi would keep us on our toes!”
Like many in the lakes area, the Youngmark’s lot presented a challenge to the design. With only 50 feet of lot width and a significant slope toward the lake, designing within the parameters of impervious lot coverage, septic system requirements, and building setbacks within Becker County took careful planning. The result is a highly efficient use of space. The home features five bedrooms, three-and-a-half baths, a walk-out basement, and an oversized two-stall garage.
“We wanted to be intentional, efficient, and hone our creativity,” says Brandi, speaking of her approach to the design and collaboration with Reid. “I wanted the design elements to reflect my personal style, while also resonating with my family’s lifestyle.”
Modern design elements define the exterior. Simple shapes and composition are showcased – as well as a monochromatic yet balanced and visually appealing blend of horizontal and vertical siding finishes that are accented with the natural wood tones of the front entry door and overhead door. The timber corbels under the soffits also provide a natural and rustic accent to the sleek exterior. Brandi refers to the interior design style informally as “Mountain Bohemian Modern,” 128 Lake & Home Magazine SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2021
characterized by rustic, natural, and modern elements. Cool gray walls and white trim, contrasted by black windows featuring sleek drywall returns, provide a modern base for the interior. The reclaimed Douglas fir beams on the kitchen ceiling and the black reclaimed cabinet door frames with rattan inserts, reflect subtle rustic undertones.
“We wanted to be intentional, efficient, and hone our creativity. I wanted the design elements to reflect my personal style, while also resonating with my family’s lifestyle.” Brandi Youngmark // homeowner
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The Montana maple cabinets and the stonegray veining in the black leathered granite countertops and full height backsplash invoke a feeling of natural warmth and calm. Expansive windows throughout the kitchen, dining room, living room, and master bedroom provide ample sunlight and a warm influence. Thus, Brandi achieves a design that meaningfully reflects her family’s love for the outdoors, from the mountain trails to the lake beaches, as well as her appreciation for sleek and subtle modern design. A striking commissioned work of art by local artist Kate Baldock hangs in the dining room over the buffet, providing an inspiring and refreshing splash of color.
The deck on the original cabin spanned the full width of the structure and was the most utilized and well-loved feature of the home. “So, naturally, the new home boasts a large deck which also spans that entire width,” says Reid, “although it’s upgraded with maintenance-free decking and a black aluminum railing.” In addition, the walkout basement on the new home received its own deck at grade, creating an impressive two-tiered deck with plenty of room for relaxing, while taking in serene lake views or entertaining and feeding guests by the dozen.
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“We eat most of our dinners on the deck and enjoy late nights under the stars,” says Brandi. “The family favorite, though, is the gorgeous sunset views. They are very seldom missed on a clear night.” Brandi Youngmark Interior Design and Radiant Homes treat every project as an opportunity to refine their process, hone their craft, and strengthen their partnership. With this project, Brandi assumed the unique perspective of both designer and client, which has provided valuable insight and a new level of empathy for her clients.
“I believe this is a prime example for many homeowners throughout the lakes area of the possibilities for creating an attainable, lasting legacy of their own at the lake.” Brandi Youngmark // homeowner “It was really a fun experience and a great exercise in discovering how each of our firms can continue to grow together while strengthening our individual client offerings and services,” adds Reid. “One thing that is important for us to remember is that sometimes design is evolving throughout the project. We strive to be adaptable and agile enough to pivot with the client and designer as needed in order to offer the best solutions which will lead to the highest client satisfaction.” Youngmark agrees, and adds, “Our family is thrilled with the results, and I believe this is a prime example for many homeowners throughout the lakes area of the possibilities for creating an attainable, lasting legacy of their own at the lake.” ~L&H
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CouLDn’t have done It without: Radiant Homes
| BUILDER
Brandi Youngmark Interior Design Vesey Plumbing
| INTERIOR DESIGN
| PLUMBING
• View our ad on page 131
Elevate Electric
| ELECTRICAL
Innovative Air, Heating & Air Conditioning Simonson Lumber
| HVAC
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Lakeman Construction LLC.
| DECK INSTALLATION
• View our ad on page 129
Accent Contracting SWI Interiors
| FLOORING
| CABINETS
• View our ad on page 127
Great Northern Granite
| COUNTERTOPS
Advance Garage Door
| GARAGE OVERHEAD DOOR
Valley Lights
| LIGHTING FIXTURES
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Hebron Brick Supply Co.
| FIREPLACE
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Rigels
| APPLIANCES
Expert Insulation
| INSULATION
Red River Drywall
| DRYWALL
Buffalo River Excavating Elsner Well Drilling
| EXCAVATING, SEPTIC
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Clarity Window Treatments
| WINDOW TREATMENTS
Scenic Landscaping Inc. / Aqua Lawn
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INSULATION
LUMBER
ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR
MASONRY
WINDOW TREATMENTS
ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR
FLOORING
CABINETS
LANDSCAPING
RADON TESTING & MITIGATION
CABINETS
QUARTZ & GRANITE
MARINE / WATERCRAFT REPAIR
SHOWERS
HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING
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SIGNAGE & DESIGN
GARAGE DOORS
CONSTRUCTION
PRINTING
ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR
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L
LAKE GIFTS
CREATIVE TOUCH BOUTIQUE 516 Broadway St, Alexandria, MN | 320-762-8786 www.creativetouchboutique.com Open seven days a week | Follow us on
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SHOPPING
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LAKE GIF
MAINSTREAM BOUTIQUE 833 Washington Ave | Detroit Lakes, MN 218-844-4990 Hours: M-F 10-5 | Sat 10-4 | Sun Closed Established in 2014 as a women’s boutique, we strive to empower and encourage women to embrace their inner beauty. We believe and educate on the power of selfesteem and help women find styles that flatter their shape and fit their lifestyle. With new fashion arriving daily we know that women want to see fresh styles both online and in the store. We
We are a boutique located in beautiful downtown Alexandria, offering home décor, clothing and gifts. We’re proud to offer cute, comfortable and affordable styles helping women look and feel their best. We carry a large section of Minnesota clothing and décor. You’ll find T-shirts, sweatshirts and hats for the entire family. You will also find home décor items that feature many of the Minnesota lakes such as our best selling barrel lake map signs. We feature a large section of seasonal décor to help you keep your home beautiful all year long. We’ve also added a children’s section complete with infant and girls’ clothing, quilts and blankets, toys, books and Warmies. It’s the perfect shopping stop for the entire family. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for the latest new arrivals and sales. Shop with us online at www.creativetouchboutique.com or shop seven days a week with us in-store!
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pride ourselves on finding apparel markets that are as unique as the women we serve. We cover sizes xsm-xlg in an affordable price range. Mainstream Boutique carries fashion from casual lake wear to a fun evening out. Customers also love to shop our shoes, scarves, purses, greeting cards, gifts and jewelry. We sell online through our Facebook page of Mainstream BoutiqueDetroit Lakes and on Instagram mainstreamdetroitlakes. Mainstream Boutique is Downtown Detroit Lakes among great restaurants, shops, and vintage stores. Come for an outfit for that summer occasion and we will stylize head to toe with jewelry and the perfect shoes.
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SHOPPING
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LAKE GIFTS
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SHOPPING
THE BRIC
PERIWINKLE MARKETPLACE
215 W Lincoln Ave | Fergus Falls, MN 218-998-2225 | Open Mon thru Fri | 10am - 4pm
328 MN Hwy 78 | Ottertail, MN 218-367-3900 Open 7 Days a Week | Mon thru Sun | 10am - 5pm Memorial Day to Labor Day | 9am - 6pm Daily
Looking for a great place to shop that encompasses something for everyone? Look no further! The Bric in downtown Fergus Falls has just that. We are a 2-level shopping experience that accommodates needs for women’s attire, gifts for any occasion and beautiful accents for your home. We also include fun and unique gifts for men and children. Welcome to Periwinkle! All Things Lake! Want to update your home or cabin? Our decor accents are current and our service is exceptional. You’ll want to keep informed on sale promotions and new arrivals so please like us on Facebook and Instagram.
Periwinkle Marketplace is an Ottertail city shopping favorite. Find women’s clothing, jewelry, kids, home décor, and all things lake! Stephanie Ellingson Dykhoff and her crew are known for making a walk into the store a great experience! “It’s been 21 years (since 2000) and it feels like only yesterday that we started Periwinkle in Fergus Falls!! Thanks for supporting our stores throughout the years! We would not be here without you!! You are the reason we continue to grow!”
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LAKE GIFTS
6TH & BROADWAY
SHOPPING
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LAKE GIF
BEYOND THE MITRED CORNERS 409 W Stanton Ave | Fergus Falls, MN 218-998-4147 Open Tuesday - Friday 10-6 and Saturday 9-12
Shop In-Store or Online 528 Broadway Street Alexandria, MN 56308 www.sixthandbroadway.com 320-763-3313 Also find us on @sixth.and.broadway Fall Hours: Mon-Sat 10-5:30, Sun by appt. Owner: Kari Lempka 6th & Broadway Clothing and Decor in historical downtown Alexandria is your destination for exquisite women’s clothing, accessories and home décor. After a warm, cheerful welcome you will find yourself immersed in color, texture and style. Rekindle the joy of in-person shopping and let us help you express confidence with a unique, high-end style that puts a spring in your step... Style as beautiful as you are.
As a premier Destination Liverpool Store, we offer ontrend fashion at an exceptional value with unforgettable instore experiences. Our boutique team will help you “celebrate you” with a fit to flatter, go-to Liverpool look. Feel stylish and fabulous in the perfect top, skirt, jeans and jacket.
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Capture nature’s beauty with your own Jay Rasmussen aluminum photographic image.
A little off the beaten path but well worth the trip. Open the door to a shop with beautiful quality merchandise and a few surprises. You will be sure to find just the right piece for your living room or bedroom. You can even have that perfect picture framed for your living room with personal service. Beyond the Mitred Corners, Fergus Falls-the shop you will be glad you stopped. Beyond The Mitred Corners is a locally owned and operated custom framing and gift shop. Lisa and Doug Anderson, owners, will help you with a personal touch. They will assist you every step of the way with all of your framing needs.
11 New Colors of Fusion Mineral Paint!
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ROSE GALLERY
RUSTY ANCHOR
218-290-4599 | Marcella@MarcellaRose.Com Shop online: MarcellaRose.com
227 West Main Street, Ottertail MN 56571 218.367.3931 | Find us on Facebook Open 7 Days a Week
Internationally recognized for her acclaimed ‘Glacial Minnesota Woman’ portrayal, Marcella Rose offers an inspirational fine art portfolio encompassing original oil paintings, bronze and ceramic sculptures, sculpted sterling jewelry — and archival limited-edition gicleé prints of many of her paintings.
Shop our unique multi-vendor store. We sell a variety of vintage, repurposed, painted and new products. Something for the whole family!
Set up a private gallery appointment in Pelican Rapids to shop available art, or to commission an original painting to enhance your home, sacred or office environment. Whatever your budget, you can immerse yourself in an artful life at MarcellaRose.com.
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THE MARKET IN BATTLE LAKE
Follow us on:
122 Lake Ave S | Battle Lake, MN 56515 218-864-2555 | www.marketfergusfalls.com Stop by The Market in Battle Lake and pick up new summer décor for your lake cabin.
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JQ CLOTHING CO. 825 Washington Avenue | Detroit Lakes, MN 701-742-5638 Check us out online and on socials 24/7 www.jqclothingco.com @jqclothingco
JQ Clothing is located in the heart of downtown Detroit Lakes. We are so excited for you all to see our amazing new fall items! We carry women’s clothing and accessories, home décor, and a wide variety of gift items. New arrivals are coming in every day, with lots of fun things in the store to see. Stop in and see us for your back to school and fall necessities. We can’t wait to see you at JQ Clothing Co.!
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SCANDINAVIAN GIFT SHOP 509 Broadway | Alexandria, MN 56308 320-763-6363 | www.scandinaviangifts.com Hours: M-Th 9am to 5:30pm Sat 9am to 5pm | Sun 11am to 3pm
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VALLEY HARDWOOD SUPPLY Family Owned & Operated 900 Center Ave W. Dilworth, MN 56529 218-233-8020 | ValleyHardwoodSupply.com Live Edge Slabs | Custom Woodworking Stop by our convenient location along Hwy 10 in Dilworth. Give that unique gift for someone special from Valley Hardwood Supply. Choose from a wide variety of beautiful selections of domestic and exotic hardwoods. Check out our charcuterie boards for those holiday get togethers. Need a signature piece for your home? Let us give you a quote. Valley Hardwood Supply offers many selections of beautiful hardwood and domestic wood options for the creative wood projects in your home and fireplace mantels.
Opened in 1983, sisters Heidi Bergerson and Sandra Sheets purchased the business from the original owners in early 2011. They take pride in their Scandinavian heritage and live it every day. Heidi & Sandra want to pass along this enthusiasm to every customer. “We carry a large selection of clothing, jewelry, gifts, and foods from Norway, Sweden, Finland,
Denmark, and Iceland - all with the personal service of a small neighborhood shop. We are passionate about our products. We only carry items we use in our everyday lives.” - H & S. This fall and winter, stay warm with Dale of Norway sweaters, Duckfeet boots, and Ekelund blankets. We promise you will be warm, dry, comfortable and look great! Stop in any time or head over to our website for all things Scandinavian!
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DOT & MINNIE’S AND LEVEL III
OTTER COFFEE AND ICE CREAM
dotandminnies.com | leveliiiboutique.com 148 1st Ave S | Perham, MN 56573 | 218-346-4180
117 E Main St, Vergas, MN 56587 218-342-4702 | www.ottercoffeevergas
Dot & Minnie’s is a true boutique—a collection of unique clothing lines you’d be hard-pressed to find together anywhere else, but will find in downtown Perham! What you will find is a wide range of classic styles, from reserved to edgy... and the funky jewelry to go with them!
Otter Coffee Vergas is more than a coffee shop—it is an Otter Tail county experience! Enjoy several products from throughout Otter Tail County. Fresh Stumbeano’s coffee, scones, and muffins are featured. Honey, raspberry syrup, maple syrup, and wild rice are instore staples. Fresh Bread Fridays from Falls Baking Company are a great time to try our delicious local jellies. You can treat yourself to ice cream, milkshakes, and smoothies. When it’s time to relax, join us on our private patio for a glass of wine and charcuterie tray. Browse the local art and jewelry. Need a hostess gift? Everyone loves a taste of Otter Tail! Gift baskets and coffee are all available online and can be shipped. Dogs are welcome and “puppachinos” are our specialty! Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for up-to-date activities and specials. Otter Coffee has the “Best Milkshakes” in Otter Tail county! We ship custom gift baskets–let us help you with gift ideas.
Not quite your style? Try our sister store across the street, Level iii. There we stock trendy styles in an industrial setting. Whatever your style, we have something for you! Most of our styles are available for purchase from our extensive websites, dotandminnies.com and leveliiiboutique.com. Shop by type of item or by brand; have it shipped, or held for pickup! Need additional information on an item? Email or call and you’ll have your answer within 24 hours—we try on more for customers than for ourselves!
Take out/curbside delivery available, call ahead 218-342-4702 16 Flavors of Ice Cream Otter Coffee “Sweeties” Sorbet (plant based, vegan, gluten free) YUM! New Hard Ciders from Duluth!
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NEW YORK MILLS REGIONAL CULTURAL CENTER 24 N Main Ave | New York Mills, MN 56567 218-385-3339 | www.kulcher.org fb - @CCNYM | IG - @nymkulcher Open Wednesday & Thursday 10am-7pm Friday 10am-5pm | Saturday 10am-3pm Multidisciplinary rural art center; venue for literary, performing, and visual arts, retail gift shop; sculpture park, artist residency program. Shop local and support local artists! Unique gifts from over 100 regional artists include: jewelry, cards, prints, ceramics, books, music, fabric arts, practical home décor, and so much more. Also your local source for Finnish candies and coffee, Iittala glassware, and traditional and contemporary Native American artwork. GIFT SHOP SPECIAL FOR SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER Mention this ad for 10% off all books and glassware! Members get 15% off! BOOKS Check out our unique selection of books for all ages. GLASSWARE Your source for Iittala Finnish glass AND locally made glass art by John Offutt of Fargo and John Olesen of Clitherall!
NYM Regional Cultural Center Sept/Oct Events: • Sept 2 Sit N Stitch 6pm • Sept 9 Art for Lunch 12pm • Sept 9 Sit N Stitch 6pm • Sept 16 Sit N Stitch 6pm • Sept 23 Sit N Stitch 6pm • Sept 25 Dylan Doyle Concert 7:30pm - 9:30pm Roots/RNB Artist Inducted into the New York Blues Hall of Fame • Sept 30 Sit N Stitch 6pm • Oct 7 Sit N Stitch 6pm • Oct 14 Art for Lunch 12pm • Oct 14 Sit N Stitch 6pm • Oct 21 Sit N Stitch 6pm • Oct 22 Zeitgeist: Crocus Hill Ghost Story Live Performance 7:30 - 8:30pm • Oct 28 Sit N Stitch 6pm • Oct 29 Amanda Standalone 7:30pm - 9:30pm Amanda will perform and debut her new CD Join us for a Fun evening with Music and Celebration In the Gallery: Native Heritage Show / Why Treaties Matter Sept 8 – Oct 2 Fiber Arts: Felting by Kristen Anderson Oct 6 - Nov 6 Check kulcher.org for the latest on events!
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FEATURED LAKE Age data suggest that largemouth bass reproduction is consistently good. Bluegill abundance appears to have stabilized after considerable fluctuation prior to 2002.
Size: 346.6 Acres Max Depth: 81 ft. Clarity: 19.1 ft. Source: Minnesota Department of Natural Resources
Paul Lake is a 319-acre lake located in north-central Otter Tail County approximately 6 miles west of Perham, Minn. Paul Lake is located within the Otter Tail River watershed. The immediate watershed is composed of hardwood forest interspersed with agricultural land and marshes. The maximum depth is 81 feet; however, 34 percent of the lake is 15 feet or less in depth. The secchi disk reading was 19.1 feet, indicating excellent water clarity. Development is located around the entire lake with the exception of the north shoreline. There are approximately 70 homes and
one resort located along the lakeshore. The shoreline length is 3 miles and shoal water substrates consist primarily of sand and gravel. A DNR owned concrete public water access is located off of County Road 34 along the north shoreline. Walleye is the primary management specie in Paul Lake. Walleyes ranged in length from 8.3 to 24.8 inches with an average length and weight of 19.3 inches and 2.7 pounds. Northern pike ranged in length from 11.5 to 37.1 inches with an average length and weight of 19.7 inches and 1.8 pounds.
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Anglers can maintain the quality of fishing by practicing selective harvest. Selective harvest encourages the release of medium to large-size fish while allowing the harvest of more abundant smaller fish for table fare. Releasing the medium to large fish will ensure that the lake will have enough spawning age fish on an annual basis and will provide anglers with more opportunities to catch large fish in the future.
FISH SPECIES: Walleye Yellow Bullhead Yellow Perch White Sucker Banded Killifish Bluntnose Minnow Fathead Minnow Johnny Darter Mimic Shiner
Black Bullhead Black Crappie Bluegill Brown Bullhead Largemouth Bass Northern Pike Pumpkinseed Rock Bass ~L&H
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