Lake&Home Magazine Jul/Aug '22

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YEAR 23 | ISSUE 4 JULY / AUG 2022

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CONTENTS

YEAR 23 • ISSUE 4 • JULY / AUG 2022 subscribe online at: www.lakeandhomemagazine.com

14 OFFICE

From the Office

by Bekki Newbrough

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OUTDOORS

Deck Trends

What's New and What's Next for Decks and Railings

by Alicia Underlee Nelson

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INTERIOR DESIGN

Everything You Need to Know About Staircases

by Alicia Underlee Nelson

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ON THE LAKE

Winterization & the Lake Preparing the Lakefront for All Seasons

by Jen Miller

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EXTERIOR

Art & Craftsmanship of Timber Frames

by Dawn Duncan

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EXTERIORS

An Outside View Exterior Choices

by Patrice Peterson

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DO IT YOURSELF

DIY Lawn Game

by Alicia Underlee Nelson

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DESIGNER PORTFOLIO

Hebron Brick

by Andrea Canning

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RECIPES

Seasonal Flavors

by Alicia Underlee Nelson

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SHOPPING

Service Directory

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FEATURED LAKE

Lake Oscar Douglas County

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94

FEATURE HOME

Making Memories on Lake Oscar

by Angela Garvin

PRODUCT SHOWCASE

Wood Signs

by Bekki Newbrough

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Unique in Minnesota Gifts for the Lake Lover

FEATURE HOME

Modern Farmhouse Chic

Cover photo Kip Johnson Story on page 94

SHOPPING

Lake Gifts

by Dawn Duncan

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Year 23, Issue 4 • JULY / AUG 2022 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 Becky Haarstad • 262.994.8744 • rebecca@lakeandhomemagazine.com Renee Redenius • 701.212.7227 • renee@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.

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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. ©2022 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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FROM THE OFFICE

From the Office written by Bekki Newbrough

There are moments in life where everything is perfect.

The sun is shining, the air feels fresh, and any sense of worry is far away. Some of the clearest memories I have are from summertime with the family.

We were always so busy in those days between school. In the summer, Lake & Home is also very busy capturing images of beautiful architecture and picturesque pieces in the new homes of the lakes area. These are shared with the community, offering everyone an opportunity to look in on these moments held still in time by the camera. Here, they will last forever.

Moments pass, and time goes forward. We face our future, walking with time as it turns.

Every now and then we look back, smiling.

That perfect moment is held still in time as well, but in our memories. The smell of peppermint and chives brings back an image of a dear family member. A painting, cherished and kept, reminds us of the way the painter used to laugh, loud and deep. The sound of ice moving in a glass pulls out a scene with voices that fill a darkened room, a spotlight on a woman singing of love. Sometimes the meadow grass moves just right, and an image emerges of children running in arcs, grins plastered across their faces as they hold tight to the ribbons they are pulling.

In the memories, we can recall that perfect impression. It floats back to us, an immortal yet faded piece of what it was before.

In this issue, we ask you to remember the fall with a bit about preparing for the coming winter, and planning ahead. Although it feels out of place, the timing may be just right. During these temperate days, we invite you to consider the deck railings and all the places outside your home. Exterior materials can shine and protect. Step up and down through a story of staircases, and learn about the artistry of timber framing.

Meet the folks at Hebron Brick, as we talk to them about their business. As you go through these pages you might be planning for the future, or just browsing to look for ideas. I hope you also get to have a moment.

Be it a picture of a chair that looks like Granny's, or words that remind you of home, the catalyst doesn't matter. It’s these significant moments, these snapshots in time, that play an important role in our lives.

I expect we will create such moments this summer. Weave them into your thoughts and hearts, for someday you will look back, smiling. L&H

See more from this home on page 82 Photo provided by Great Furniture Gallery

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INTERIOR DESIGN

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A staircase is more than just a functional object. It’s both a means of transportation between levels and a dominant architectural feature. It can blend into the background or serve as a striking conversation starter.

“A century ago, people would walk into old homes and it would be the showpiece,” says Brandon Krause of Red River Floor Company based in Moorhead. “It would be the center of the home.”

Stairways don’t have to be an afterthought.

With a little intentionality and the right team of experts, your staircases can be as beautiful, functional and customized as everything else in your home.

What type of staircase design is trending?

“The modern look is in right now,” explains the Brainerd Hardwoods sales manager known only to customers as JP. “Big, chunky floating staircases, more simple lines.”

“Or rustic,” he adds. “We’re seeing a lot of rustic stuff.”

So which elements make a staircase look rustic?

“A lot of circular-sawn, textured stuff combined with wire brushed wood,” JP clarifies.

“The reclaimed look is pretty popular right now. We’re seeing a lot of stairways done like that, with reclaimed wood posts, beams and timbers.”

Which elements make a staircase look modern?

“The railings have a lot to do with that,” explains Krause. “If there’s steel or glass involved with the railing, it ends up looking really cool. I did a flight of stairs recently that were really modern… clean lines, with no returns. A return is the part of the stair tread that goes perpendicular to the grain of the wood so you don’t see the end grain.”

A stair tread is the flat portion where you put your feet. A riser is the flat, vertical element that gradually increases a staircase’s height.

The experts say it’s not just the form of the staircase that makes it look modern. Materials matter too. And although glass and steel feature prominently in contemporary staircases, you can also get that crisp, clean look with wood. Just choose the wood species and finish wisely.

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photo provided by Josh Sinning Painting and Finishing

“You see a lot of white oak, a lot of walnut or riffs on white oak,” says JP. “And they’re doing a lot of lighter stains or finishes, where they’re trying to see the wood as it is, not change the color of it. So a lot of water-based finishes (not matte finishes) and simple lines, nothing very complex.”

Which wood species are most often used for staircases in Minnesota lakes country?

“Being that we’re so close to lumber mills out of Canada and Wisconsin (and there are some in Minnesota as well), I’d say the most common species would be red oak and maple,” Krause says. “A lot of older homes had Douglas fir as well, which was a cheaper option.”

What’s a good wood to choose if I want something a little different for a stairway?

“I’ve done a lot of birch stairs, but those aren’t nearly as common,” says Krause. “Birch is really similar to maple except it has a lot more figure to it. The grain orientation creates kind of a shimmer effect. It looks like there’s a ribbon running through the grain of the wood.”

See more in our May/June 2021 feature home

“I really like the look of hickory, the contrasts in it,” he continues. “There’s kind of a creamy white sap wood and then the hardwood is more chocolatey brown, so they go really well together. Those colors can work in a rustic home or just about any design, really. You can match a lot with that color combination.”

How can I make a really big statement with a staircase?

Sometimes we don’t want a staircase to blend in—we want it to stand out in a home. In that case, Krause recommends starting with a wood species that really speaks to you, not just settling for the first choice you see.

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The most common species would be red oak and maple. A lot of older homes had Douglas fir as well, which was a cheaper option.”

Brandon Krause | Red River Floor Company

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Then work on maximizing contrast. If you’re just replacing the treads or the risers, select new options that really pop against the other elements. You can do this by choosing a different stain of paint color.

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Krause specializes in hardwoods. So it’s no surprise that he recommends adding a new wood species to the mix. He’s had clients achieve dramatic results by combining many types of wood.

“A client requested five different species: hickory, Brazilian cherry, maple, black walnut and red oak,” he explains. “I custom milled everything, all the treads and risers.

The black walnut I actually stained even darker, so there was a lot of contrast. That ended up being a really cool color combination and the client loved it. It’s definitely not for everyone but the people that like it really love it.”

What are some ways to refresh the look of a staircase without building a new one?

A complete staircase redo takes time and expertise, which can get expensive. But you don’t necessarily need to change your entire staircase to get a new look.

By replacing only certain elements, like handrails, balusters (which support the railing) or newel posts (larger posts at the head and foot the stairs), you can get a new look for less. JP lays out some of the simplest options for a stairway make-over.

See more in our May/June 2021 feature home

See more in our Mar/Apr 2021 feature home

“A lot of people tend to put a carpet runner on wood stairs because they think it’ll be less slippery. But I think most of the time they just cover up the beauty.”

Brandon Krause | Red River Floor Company

See more in our July/Aug 2021 feature home

“You can change out your turned wood balusters for metal balusters, paint your newel posts or get a new handrail,” JP suggests. “I’ve seen a lot of people put sleeves over their existing posts that are turned wood when they’re remodeling. They’ll take the old 4x4 posts and they’ll make a hollow sleeve and slide it over the post and use the old post as an anchoring device.”

Replacing the elements underfoot is even easier. JP recommends switching out carpeted elements well before they begin to look worn or outdated—or doing away with carpet entirely.

“Replace your carpet runners or stair carpet treads with wood treads,” he suggests. “That’s an easy way to freshen up the look without changing up everything.”

Do wood stairs get slippery?

“A lot of people tend to put a carpet runner on wood stairs because they think it’ll be less slippery,” says Krause. “But I think most of the time they just cover up the beauty.”

Still, slippery stairs can be a concern for the elderly, folks with mobility issues or families with children or pets in the home. Moving away from the highly polished look of the past certainly helps add traction. (All JULY / AUG 2022

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How often should I refinish my stairs?

“That’s a tricky one, because every finish and every species wears at a different rate,” Krause explains. “So if you have noticeable wear (down to bare wood) or chipping on the nosings, then I would suggest a refinish.”

“If they’re refinishing their floors, I would say it’s worth refinishing the stairs at the same time as the floors,” he adds. “Just to make it one consistent, flowing look.”

Can I refinish my stairs myself?

“I’ve seen very, very few well done homeowner refinishes,” Krause says slowly, with caution coloring every word. “Refinishing stairs isn’t cheap, but it’s also 100 percent hand work, so it takes a lot of patience.”

See more in our May/June 2021 feature home

those waxes and polishes can get awfully slick, especially if the stairs aren’t perfectly clean to begin with.) The fact that modern building codes require staircases to be wider, less steep and include handrails helps too.

Staircase specialists can also apply an anti-slip finish. This can provide both extra traction and peace of mind.

“I had a client who was really concerned about her stairs being slippery,” Krause says.

He applied the anti-slip product and the customer had a complete change of heart.

“She said if I ever need anyone to do a commercial to say how grippy they are, then she’d be more than happy to do it,” he concludes with a laugh.

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This is a job that requires time, focus, tenacity and specialized skills. He says the handful of homeowners he’s met who have successfully refinished their stairs themselves had extensive experience in related fields like house painting. So unless you’re an experienced contractor, house painter or carpenter, leave all but the smallest refinishing jobs to the experts.

See more in our July/Aug 2021 feature home

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What looks do you think will grow in popularity in the future?

When is a staircase too far gone to fix?

“I’m seeing more of that textured wood,” he continues. “Gray or lighter brown colors seem to be coming back. I’ve even seen some almost white-washed stuff. It reminds me of that bleached wood from the 80s.”

“If it involves rental equipment that you’ve never used before, then don’t touch it,” says Krause. “Any project that can’t be completed in a day by a homeowner should probably be left to the professionals.”

“It really depends on the condition, first and foremost,” explains Krause, “If it’s covered in really alligatored shellac or if stairs are broken then it might be beyond repair or outside their budget.”

As much as we might want to save a gorgeous historic staircase, it might not always be practical or economical to do so. And safety always comes first.

“I think the modern look is still going to be popular,” says JP. “I think that rustic/modern mix—and mixing metal and wood—is something that’s going to continue getting more and more popular."

This emphasis on texture and contrast feels fresh. So does mixing and matching different styles, materials and even eras. Applying the same design principles to a staircase helps it merge with the rest of the home, so it can stand out or blend in—whatever works best with the homeowner’s vision. L&H

See more in our Nov/Dec 2018 feature home

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How do we know when it’s time to call an expert?

I think that rustic/ modern mix—and mixing metal and wood—is something that’s going to continue getting more and more popular."

JP | Brainerd Hardwoods

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EXTERIORS

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n a revival of a timeless craft that stems from its Neolithic origins, timber framing has made a major impact on the world of design and construction for years.

The trend continues to grow exponentially. The concept, which is a form of “post-and-beam” construction, incorporates heavy timbers that are then jointed and secured by wooden pegs after being squared off. Germany is well known for its many timber framed homes and buildings, many of which have what is referred to as “half-timbered” exteriors, meaning the structural frame of the load-bearing timber is exposed. Several other parts of Europe are also recognized for this type of construction that stems from working with cut logs versus engineered, dimensional lumber.

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Today, combining old-world craftsmanship with structural stability and aesthetic beauty, timber frame style is one that blends with contemporary and rustic dwellings. Variations of timber framing include box frame, cruck frame, aisled frame, and half-timbering, with the box version being a simple straight and vertical piece built without purlins; it instead features a simple roof carried by exterior walls.

In the cruck frame, crooked, curved timbers are used, forming a bent or cross frame; the U.K. is well-known for this type of structure, with more than 4,000 builds on record that reflect this style and Americans will often refer to English structures as “Tudor style.”

Historic homes such as that of Anne Hathaway (wife of William Shakespeare) in Warwickshire, England are a popular tourist destination and a commonly recognized example.

With aisled frame design, one or more rows of interior posts are used, which carry the majority of the structural load, versus exterior walls. These are common in the U.S.,

predominantly in churches, and are wider than the simple box-frame or cruck-frame buildings.

Half-timbering involves load-bearing timber in its frame, creating panels or spaces that are then filled with nonstructural material or “infill.” In the Middle Ages, this type of timber framing was popular as an economical choice; one log, cut in half, was used to make two posts and that shaved piece was then on the exterior of the home or building.

Ben Miller, founder and president of Blue Ox Timber Frames based in Alexandria, Minn., entered this realm of construction unexpectedly following graduation from college. While traveling throughout Alaska, he was introduced to timber frame homes and buildings and was immediately intrigued.

“As soon as I was exposed to this style, I knew it was what I wanted to learn,” Miller said. “Friends I graduated with told me it was just a phase that I was going through, but I disagreed and have never regretted it!”

Miller commented that timber framing is an exciting type of design and there are several steps in the process that his company goes through from initial design through installation to bring vision to life in homes throughout Minnesota, western Wisconsin, and also out of area locations of Washington, Virginia, Florida, and Pennsylvania.

He explained that his company is often involved in the design process from the beginning, either relying solely on their inhouse designer, or working with outside professionals. They begin by working with design concepts, ensuring the design is structurally sound and that the home layout will be conducive to having timber frames incorporated. From there, an in-house engineer takes the next steps, followed by a third party engineer; this ensures that the design will work properly in the home.

“The design aspect is a fun process for us,” Miller remarked. “Once the design is approved, we can then source our materials, which is done through sawmills that specialize in heavy timber.” Specific timbers are ordered for raw materials and are sent from the mill into the next phase of production, which includes cutting the joinery for the frame joinery.

Joinery can be cut utilizing one of two methods; one is cut by hand using basic, specialized tools for the trade (saws, chisels, drills, hand planes and mortisers). This technique is referred to as “hand cutting.” Materials can also be cut on a CNC machine. Miller stated that Blue Ox is a hybrid shop in that the majority of what they are producing is done on the CNC machine, yet each piece is still handled by a skilled professional to ensure quality. “Machines do have limitations,” he added. “Human hands are needed to cut the more intricate members of the timber frame.”

Blue Ox pre-assembles their timbers in their shop to ensure a tight fit, as timber framing relies on the ancient technique of holes being drilled to hold thick, wooden pegs as the joining mechanism for the heavy timbers. Once it is determined that all pieces fit together properly, the timbers are then sent through a pre-finish process; they are sanded and a clear coat or stained finish is applied.

For Blue Ox, some of the timbers they use are reclaimed, but the majority are new; Douglas fir and eastern white pine are their top sellers and Miller commented that the pine option is used often in the northern areas as it fits with the natural pine covered beauty of the landscape. “Well with lake living in particular,” he added, “there are advantages from a construction standpoint, yes, but really it comes down to if you look at timber frame design and like it, it’s for you.”

Additionally, Miller remarked that design concepts tend to come from the east and west coast and work their way to the interior of the country. His team sees more contemporary design today that includes rustic accents like timber frames… and this trend is growing. “People love big bays of windows, high ceilings, and gathering spaces that are an open concept. Timber frames work well with all of this, plus give an eye-catching appeal to rooms, especially the open areas.”

Some clients opt for a full timber frame home build, while others may prefer building a “hybrid” home with timber framing in specified parts of the house. This may be simply a design choice and only wanting the look and feel of timber frames in certain areas, or it is a budget-based choice, as it is more costly to do a full structural build.

Mike Niklaus, co-owner of Big Wood Timber Frames Inc., which has its office in St. Paul and shop in Brainerd, Minn., is also an industry veteran who, along with business partner Dave LePage, started out in construction and got involved in timber framing early in his career. He explained that the two went to college at St. Cloud State together and were working in construction when LePage’s father purchased land on Wilson Bay of Gull Lake, intending to build a cabin and guest house. They had recently seen timber framing done and presented the idea of doing the guest house in the style. After the decision was made to incorporate the concept, Niklaus and LePage delved into books

“The design aspect is a fun process for us.

Once the design is approved, we can then source our materials, which is done through sawmills that specialize in heavy timber.”

Ben Miller | Blue Ox Timber Frames

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“I am incredibly grateful for all of the people who came before me doing this type of craftsmanship.

It’s an extraordinary experience to work with something old and see it used in today’s contemporary homes.”

Ben Miller | Blue Ox Timber Frames

about timber framing to learn the trade as this was prior to the internet offering a howto on anything imaginable. That was in 1986, and in 1993 Niklaus and LaPage incorporated their company after seeing there was a demand for timber frames that was growing and gaining ground in the marketplace.

Big Wood Timber Frames mainly focuses on reclaimed timbers, which Niklaus stated is excellent to work with as the wood is already dry, will not expand or contract, and is already displaying its beauty. Big Wood also sells reclaimed wood for ceilings, flooring, timber brackets, and custom furniture pieces. Their 18-person company also markets “barn kits,” which include wood from barns that are taken down. The 10’x10’ or 12’x12’ timbers are then packaged and sold for home builds and offer another eco-friendly option for construction.

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He commented that the timber frame style is one that is increasing in popularity in areas like Minnesota as its rustic look is successfully incorporated in the rural or lake settings that are common here. Many of Big Wood’s projects include decorative timber elements, but the company also does structural builds. “We are a hybrid of structural frame or traditional timber frame, or we work with more conventional builds and timbers are added just for décor. This offers flexibility for the clients as they can choose what look and budget they want.”

Timber frames allow for showcasing the inherent beauty of wood, while also providing an appealing structure that spans wide, open areas. “The old style of building is one that has withstood the test of time for a reason,” Niklaus added. “It’s strong and also visually attractive.”

The mixed approach that both Blue Ox and Big Wood offer allows for other professionals to be involved in designing the perfect dwelling; architects, designers, and builders all work together to bring an idea to reality and tweak the design to fit appropriately with a home’s overall aesthetic. “It’s a wonderful process,” Niklaus said, “and we all work to bring a design to fruition.” Miller also commented that this is a process that entails many minds joining forces; it is complex and, when done well, creates a stunning result.

Miller added, “I am incredibly grateful for all of the people who came before me doing this type of craftsmanship. It’s an extraordinary experience to work with something old and see it used in today’s contemporary homes.” L&H

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INTERIOR DESIGN

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great deck adds value to your home. It’s a bridge between interior and exterior spaces and provides a comfortable place to relax, socialize, connect with friends and family, and spend time outdoors.

But before you can enjoy your deck to the fullest, it needs to be stable, functional and well suited to your needs. So whether you’re upgrading an existing deck or building a new one, there are so many ways to transform your deck into the perfect retreat, showplace or gathering space.

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COMPOSITE DECKING MATERIALS “A lot of people are coming up to the cabin for the weekend and they don’t want to spend the whole weekend doing maintenance,” says Lori Mattson, of Mattson Lumber Company in Nisswa. “We’re all busy, whether we're seasonal, part-time or fulltime at the lake, and we don’t want to spend the weekend staining the deck.”

Homeowners who want a low-maintenance option are increasingly turning to composite decking materials. Composite decking is made out of a variety of recycled or reclaimed materials, including wood fibers and plastic.

It’s available in many colors, grains and finishes to complement any type of home.

PHOTO : NOV/DEC 2020 L&H FEATURE HOME

One major benefit of composite decking is that homeowners get the look of wood without all the maintenance. Composite decks eliminate the need for sanding and staining. And since the materials don’t decompose like wood, homeowners don’t have to worry about monitoring, repairing and replacing rotting boards. Just wash the deck at the beginning of the season and it’ll look great all summer long.

When you price it out by linear foot, composite decking is more expensive. But since composite decks don’t require maintenance, you save money in the long run.

Since composite decks are durable and not subject to decay, they tend to last longer. A wood deck averages a 10 to 15 year lifespan, while many composite decks are backed by a 25-year extended warranty.

PHOTO : MAR/APR 2021 L&H FEATURE HOME

“We’re all busy, whether we're seasonal, part-time or full-time at the lake, and we don’t want to spend the weekend staining the deck.”

Lori Mattson - Mattson Lumber Company

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ALUMINUM POWDER COATED RAILINGS Composite decks aren’t the only option for homeowners who want a durable decking material without much maintenance. Sleek metal railings are also gaining traction for the exact same reasons.

“The trend is toward lower-maintenance options, moving away from wood and going into an aluminum system, which is gaining in popularity,” explains Mattson.

These aluminum powder coated railings are treated to prevent rust and corrosion so they won’t peel or flake. And although they’re lightweight, they’re tough enough to stand up to Minnesota winters, sweltering summers and high winds.

SMALLER NEWEL POSTS

An aluminum powder coated railing system is also more expensive than wood up front.

But since there’s virtually no upkeep, you’ll save money over time.

“We’ve noticed that newel post size has really shrunk today,” Mattson says. “The whole system is smaller, cleaner.”

Some homeowners are attracted to aluminum powder coated railings because they are a stress-free option. But others gravitate toward them for their sleek, modern lines and matte finish.

“It seems like everyone likes the look and the texture,” says Mike Lyngen of Hilltop Lumber in Alexandria. “I think it’s just a nicer, cleaner look. And it holds up really well.”

It’s not just aluminum posts that are trending smaller. In general, newel posts (the vertical pieces that support a staircase or end a handrail) are decreasing in size. That’s true regardless of the material they’re made from.

A slimmer support system works well in homes with a more contemporary, streamlined style. The newel posts almost disappear from view, maximizing the scenery and minimizing the boundary between the deck and nature. But anyone who appreciates a great view will benefit from a smaller system. And in lakes country, that’s just about everyone.

Aluminum posts and railings are sturdy. Because aluminum is strong, aluminum posts and railings can also be physically smaller than a comparable wood or composite decking system.

“Some people want a really small post,” explains Lyngen. “And you can get smaller posts that are between the rail sections, versus the old way of doing a maintenance-free railing, which was a wood 4x4 and a vinyl post sleeve that goes over it.”

A smaller post and railing means there’s less building material between you and the view. And in lake country, that matters a lot.

PHOTOS : JULY/AUG 2021 L&H FEATURE HOME

“It seems like everyone likes the look and the texture.

I think it’s just a nicer, cleaner look. And it holds up really well.”

Mike Lyngen - Hilltop Lumber on Aluminum Powder Coated Railings

CABLE RAILINGS “In the lakes area, we have such great views, whether it’s the lake or the woods or the fields,” says Mattson. “People just want those unrestricted views and the slim rails of a cable rail really provide that. So the cable rail, whether horizontal or vertical, has been really popular.”

A cable railing looks fresh, modern and minimalistic. Its construction is simple: stainless steel cable measuring 1/8″ and 3/16″, which is strung either vertically or horizontally between posts.

Up close, the cable looks cool and vaguely industrial, which makes it a great fit for homes with modern lines, a minimalist sensibility or industrial accents. But when you step back just a few feet, your eyes focus on the view beyond the cable instead. As a result, a cable railing blends into its surroundings and works with almost any style of home, with the exception of historic buildings or very traditional dwellings.

PHOTO : MAY/JUNE 2021 L&H FEATURE HOME

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DEEPER COLORS Homeowners and product manufacturers are getting creative with deck colors, too. As with designs and materials, homeowners have demonstrated that they’re not afraid to try something different. They’re choosing deck colors that don’t draw attention to themselves for the exact same reason that they’re choosing slimmer posts and railings; it’s all about those views.

“We’re seeing a lot of the neutral colors…a lot of bronzes and blacks and maybe less of the whites,” explains Mattson. “And that reflects back to the environment because the deck kind of disappears. Instead of drawing your eye, you look through it.”

PHOTOS : SEPT/OCT 2020 L&H FEATURE HOME

A cable railing is more expensive than a wood railing, but it's cheaper than glass.

Like aluminum, stainless steel is extremely durable. In fact, it's one of the most durable metals available and upkeep is virtually nonexistent.

HORIZONTAL LINES In the past, vertical balusters (the supports that hold up the railing) were the default for decks. But contemporary home design and the movement away from wood decks have prompted a re-examination of deck designs.

“We’re seeing a lot more draw to a horizontal option, whether it’s a cable or a horizontal baluster,” says Mattson. “It’s something different.”

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PICTURE FRAMING Can’t decide on a color? No worries. Plenty of customers choose two colors to create visual interest and draw the eye along the edge of the deck to spotlight the shape and design of the structure. Lyngen explains the technique.

“We’re seeing a lot of what we call picture framing, where they do one color on the perimeter of the deck all the way around so it covers up the end grains of the deck boards,” he explains. “A lot of times they’ll do a main color and an accent color. They’ll match the top boards to the perimeter frame color.”

Each corner is finished with a miter joint, a neat, 90-degree angle that joins each board to the next. The result is a series of perfectly crisp and clean corners without a rough edge in sight. This effect makes a deck look smooth and finished, just as solid and neatly composed as a beautiful piece of furniture.

PHOTOS : MAY/JUNE 2022 L&H FEATURE HOME

The professionals can use this technique on the deck itself. But to take the artistry to the next level, they can also use miter joints on much smaller sections.

“On one deck, the contractor actually mitered the corners of each step so that none of those end boards showed,” says Lyngen.

“So he made a little picture frame around each step, which is a really nice look. It finishes off everything really nice.”

DECK LIGHTING

PHOTOS : JAN/FEB 2021 L&H FEATURE HOME

Don’t settle for a tired old porch light when there are so many lighting options available.

Post cap lights add ambiance and protect your railing, while side mount lights create zones by illuminating key sections of the deck. Under rail lights, stair and step lights are low-profile and functional, guiding people across the space safely. Landscape lights installed around the base of the deck are both functional and beautiful.

Outdoor light fixtures are available in almost any style and finish you can imagine. And modern lighting options are longer lasting and more environmentally friendly than ever before. That’s good news if you want lighting with great style and a small carbon footprint.

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“Each year it seems like they push more and more into different options for solar lighting and LED lighting,” says Lyngen. “The solar lighting is just as easy as it seems.”

That ease is attractive to homeowners. So is the long-life span and high energy efficiency provided by LED bulbs.

MIX AND MATCHING When it’s time to shake up your outdoor living space, go with what you love. When you create a space that reflects your style and honors your needs, you’ll be happy to spend more time there.

Manufacturers and deck specialists have responded to this desire for customization.

Homeowners who want to refresh a deck or build an entirely new one have so many options. You don’t have to be bound by tradition or what “goes together.”

“You don’t need to be matchy-matchy,” Mattson insists. “You don’t have to make a deck and railing look like a matched set — the deck can be one thing and the railing another. They don’t need to be from the same company, the same color, the same materials. By changing the post style, the drink rail on the top, solar lights, LED lights, different size posts, we can really make it individual and make it work for your particular situation.” L&H

PHOTOS : NOV/DEC 2018 L&H FEATURE HOME

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ON THE LAKE

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on the fall dock and lift removal list,” Dan Johnson, owner of DJ’s Dock Service, stated. “On our website, www.djsdockservice. com, there is a removal form that people can fill out that goes right to my email.”

However, in the land of 10,000-plus lakes, it never hurts to have a plan in place to remove your dock and boatlift months before the lakes freeze. “We generally have people start calling in the middle of summer to get

By the time summer burns out, fall is already in full swing as students return to school, football fans return to the bleachers, farmers return to the fields, and suddenly, the snow is flying, and you’re out of time.

“Before it gets to that point, you should ask

innesota summers on the lakes are short and sweet. The last thing people want to think about in mid-summer while soaking up the sun is preparing their lakefront for another long Minnesota winter.

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yourself, ‘What do we need to do to get our lakefront ready for winter, whether that is schedule an appointment with a dock and lift service provider or put a do-it-yourself plan in place,” explained Lake Area Docks & Lifts media specialist Kurt Welch.

“Typically, Labor Day weekend is the last summer hurrah before people head home, so we’ll start moving docks and lifts in early September right up until the first week or two of November,” Johnson commented.

"Before it gets to that point, you should ask yourself, ‘What do we need to do to get our lakefront ready for winter.'"

Kurt Welch | Lake Area Docks & Lifts JULY / AUG 2022

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Before removing docks and lifts from the lake, you’ll want to do a few things, such as clean and inspect your equipment. “Do a thorough inspection of the boat and docking materials before and again during the winter. Make sure everything is up to snuff, from cables to boat lifts and beyond, before the coldest months arrive. If this is not possible, you must inspect your boat and dock before reported snow or freezes. If there are any issues before a winter storm, it’ll be much worse and more expensive after,” Dock Blocks sales representative Doug Edwards explained.

“Check to make sure that you’re complying with local laws. Some municipalities require the removal of boats and docks in the winter. You’ll also want to check your marina’s rules if you have your dock parked somewhere that is not private. Do research ahead of time, so there are no surprises or tickets.

Even if you aren’t legally required to remove your boat in the off, colder season, consider that long exposure to winter weather can damage boats. You’re better off storing it.”

photos provided by Lake Area Docks & Lifts

Once you’ve inspected your dock and boatlift—it’s time to remove it, especially if you’re living in Minnesota. “Ice can do a lot of damage to your equipment. It can destroy everything in its path when ice moves,” Welch mentioned. “If water gets inside the dock legs and freezes, it will expand and crack the legs, and you’ll no longer be able to adjust the legs,” Johnson added.

The frigid winter months aren’t the only challenge lakefront property owners are up against. The early spring months also create challenges that can land your dock in pieces on the shore or drag your boatlift out to the middle of the lake. “The biggest issues are melting ice and the wind. The wind can blow an ice sheet that could push the dock right into your yard, twist everything up, and cause landscaping and property damage.

If the wind can push the riprap up, imagine what it can do to an aluminum dock,” Johnson explained. “If the ice shifted away from the property, it can pull a boatlift away from shore, and then when the ice gets thin and cracks, the lift will sink. I haven’t seen it happen yet, but I’ve heard stories.”

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photos provided by Lake Area Docks & Lifts You might be looking at your dock system, wondering if it will survive the winter and spring thaw right where it is, and if your dock is made with HDPE materials, it could very well. “Docks made with HDPE can withstand snow and ice, but if you’re worried or your municipality requires it, modular docks can easily be removed. To prevent ice buildup, consider a bubbler and make sure your dock is in an ideal position to handle wind and waves.

If you have a wooden dock, a bubbler is essential. Even then, there are risks associated with damage. A durable material like HDPE is always a better option than standard brittle wooden docks come winter. It is designed to hold up against harsh weather conditions,” Edwards explained.

"There are so many variables when it comes to removing a dock" Dan Johnson | DJ's Dock Service

Dock Blocks global engineering and testing department is equipped with the technical and HDPE materials expertise to provide completely customizable docks for ideal applications, which can be reconfigured and removed with ease. “We differ from other floating docks in our advanced technology, including a patented docking system, delivering more strength and added stability while ensuring the system lasts longer.”

“There are so many variables when it comes to removing a dock. For instance, the type of dock you’re removing, how you’ll remove it, the equipment needed to remove it, are you working on a flat or steep bank, and where you will store the equipment once you remove it from the lake,” Johnson explained.

Dock and boat lift removal will be a breeze for the cabin owner whose name is on the removal list. “When you hire a service provider to remove your dock and boat lifts,

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you’re getting peace of mind. Many service providers in the area are pretty affordable. They work with all kinds of different brands and manufacturers, and it’s something they do all season, so they know what they’re doing,” Welch commented.

“Depending on the size of the dock, we can have it out of the water in less than an hour. We also have a barge to float them off the lake access, and then we’ll bring them around to the owner’s backyard or a storage facility in the county,” Johnson said.

You’ll need a handful of tools, possibly a few extra hands, and an hour or two to remove your dock and lift for the DIY guy or gal. “Every person has their unique story about how they take the dock in and out. Some guys will have the whole gang over to help, start a fire, and roast hot dogs while others prefer to do it themselves,” Welch commented.

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“Removing a modular dock shouldn’t take longer than a few hours and is easy to do yourself. Most modular dock systems don’t require significant tools to remove. A forked tool, spanner wrench, and socket wrench are often all that are needed. Accessories may require additional tools, such as a screwdriver,” Edwards said.

When removing a wheel-in dock, you may want to hitch it to a lawn tractor, an ATV, or even a truck to pull it from the lake. “If you have a flat yard, you can park the dock right in your yard. If you live on a steep bank or are concerned about the riprap, a sectional standing dock is a way to go because they break down in sections and can be stacked on the bank or alongside a shed,” Johnson explained. Come spring, the lightweight and easy-to-assemble sectional standing dock is simple to return to the lake.

photos provided by Lake Area Docks & Lifts

While a boat lift will do just fine on the shore, you’ll need to ensure the canopy is brought in during the winter months. Remove and wash your canopy cover while your dock is still in the water. “On a nice, dry day, roll up the canopy and store it in a dry area so that it doesn’t mold over the winter,” Johnson warned.

For those just starting to break ground on your lakefront property dreams or a new landscaping project, Welch suggests taking a moment to decide where you’ll store your dock and lift during the winter months.

“There are places in the area that will store that equipment off-site, but if you’re planning a new build or landscaping, it would be good to incorporate a spot to store your dock and lift in your planning.”

Before calling it summer at the beach, thoroughly inspect the property. “Inspections are key,” Edwards said. “Make sure your property is secure and optimized for winter, especially windows, doors, and HVAC systems. Ensure you have shovels, bags of grit, de-icer, and sandbags for storms. It is essential that you store your boat.”

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"If you’re planning a new build or landscaping, it would be good to incorporate a spot to store your dock and lift in your planning.”

Kurt Welch | Lake Area Docks & Lifts

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photo provided by Marine Innovations Inclined elevators should also be winterized if they will be inactive for an extended period. Since 1991, Marine Innovations has helped folks “effortlessly” access their cabins and waterfronts. “Our inclined elevators help homeowners overcome steep inclines and avoid stairs. Our industry-leading, fully-engineered, code-compliant inclined elevator systems are designed for a lifetime of use,” Marine Innovations marketing manager Eric Hausten stated.

The drum-dive, and 860 lb resident unit is a standard system Marine Innovations tends to install in the area. The electric motor powers a reducing gearbox that turns a drum that releases cable to lower the carriage down the hill. The drive system reverses to pull the carriage up the hill. During those winter months, the carriage should remain at the top of the hill. “If you’re concerned about ice heaving at the bottom of your hill, call your dealer or the manufacturer so you can be advised as to whether the bottom sections of the rails should be removed,” Hausten commented.

“If you leave your electricity on during the winter months, turning the main power off or removing any batteries is not necessary. If you turn the electricity off during the winter months and have a docking station on your carriage, remove the docking station battery located on the trolley.”

photo provided by Lake Area Docks & Lifts

While you’re out in the fish house this winter, return to DJ’s Dock Service web page to get your name on the list to have your dock and lift returned to the lake or line up something with another service provider. While visiting DJ’s Dock Service web page, check out their “Rock Out With Your Dock Out” event page for upcoming concerts on the water this summer. In the past, bands have played on Otter Tail Lake, Lake Lizzy, and Pelican Lake, to mention a few.

“We are a one-phone-call company. We can remove your dock and lift, store your boat, and winterize it. Then, come spring, we’ll return your dock and lift to the lake, fill up your boat with gas, bring it out to you, and drop it in the lake all in one day. That way all people need to do is show up, crack a cold one, and enjoy their day out on the lake because the last thing you want to do is work when you get to the cabin,” Johnson concluded. L&H

“Inspections are key.

Make sure your property is secure and optimized for winter, especially windows, doors, and HVAC systems. It is essential that you store your boat.”

Doug Edwards | Dock Blocks 56 Lake & Home Magazine JULY / AUG 2022

EXTERIORS

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photo provided by Hebron Brick

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photo provided by Dave Erwin Construction

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home’s first impression can define that homeowner’s style and personality. Whether building a new home or renovating an existing home, all design decisions are important, but how the rest of the world sees the exterior of a structure is especially important.

Although choosing the material for that exterior may not seem as exciting as choosing the overall design or the number of windows, it’s a decision that deserves thought and consideration from many different angles. A wide range of materials are available, with dozens of textures and colors to choose from.

photo provided by Hebron Brick

Trends Over the years, the availability or scarcity of specific materials, along with current design trends, have influenced people’s decisions in several different ways.

“Fifty years ago, Masonite primed lap siding and wood sidings were very common,” says Jason Merickel, owner of Merickel Lumber Inc., in Wadena. “Then along came metal siding, vinyl siding, fiber cement siding, and now engineered wood. Some new composite, polymer sidings are also being developed.”

Looking back even further in history, the use of brick for exterior siding can be traced to the ancient Egyptians. In the United States, brick structures were built in Virginia as early as 1611. Once brick making became in-

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dustrialized in the 19th century, it became even more widely used, and continues to be a popular choice for home exteriors.

Dan Berglind, regional manager of Hebron Brick Supply in Fargo, believes there will always be trends in exteriors, and brick will always be a part of it.

“Whether a home is all brick or stone, whether it’s used as an accent, and whatever the overall look, I think the driving factor for many people is aesthetics,” he says. “It’s a timeless look that goes beyond trends and it’s also very low maintenance.”

Besides supplying brick, natural stone and manufactured stone, Hebron Brick Supply also carries a line of steel siding.

“We can put together a combination of materials, using brick and steel together – it all depends on what the customer wants,” says Berglind. “Every exterior product out there has a place. That’s why they all exist. Every home has a different need.”

Natural Wood is another natural exterior material that can be readily available and has been utilized for thousands of years. Since the days of the early settlers and log cabins, the natural beauty of wood has definitely influenced design trends.

One popular choice over the years has been raw wood siding, especially cedar or pine, which needs to be continually treated or sealed to retain that beauty. With the development of new technologies, some exterior wood materials now have a factory finish, pre-sealed with special coatings, eliminating the necessary ongoing maintenance.

Reclaimed lumber has also become popular. “Using some wood that has weathered on a prairie in North Dakota, or taken off a family barn to be dismantled and reconditioned as siding, can be a unique statement,” says Jesse Thymian, sales manager at All Star Construction in Fargo. “It isn’t usually painted, and might need to be sealed – it’s always a very personal choice.”

New Materials In the 18 years that Thymian has been working in this market, he says that not only have the materials changed with trends and availability, but the designs of houses have also drastically changed.

“It used to be just one color with trim,” he says. “Now, especially with the newer custom-built homes, there can be a mixture of materials, and a number of different colors and profiles.”

In the last few years, one of the most common materials being used is an engineered wood. LP Smartside (made by Louisiana Pacific) can be installed in a vertical profile, lap or shake. The siding and trim come pre-

primed and hold paint like wood, but can also be repainted down the road if a color change is desired.

“It has a cedar-like texture to it, it cuts and installs like wood, but unlike wood, has a 50-year warranty on the substrate, and a paint warranty from individual pre-finishers,” he adds.

Another specialty item Thymian mentions is MAC Metal – a painted steel siding that looks like a wood grain. With low maintenance and a wide range of wood grains and tones to choose from, it adds to the many choices out there.

The introduction of new materials and new technology has expanded those choices. Over the years, availability and trends have definitely influenced pricing, a factor that always needs to be included in the decision-making process.

THE CRAFT OF INSTALLING Cory Gordon grew up installing home exteriors. His father was in construction, and other than a brief time when he went to work in a factory, he’s been doing exteriors his entire life.

“I’ve installed all sorts of siding over the years,” says Gordon, who operates HCH Companies out of Perham. “From wood to cedar shakes to vinyl and steel – I even used to do aluminum.

It would be fair to say, though, that this engineered wood – LP Smartside – is my favorite kind of exterior material right now.”

Although he admits that the process can be a little bit more difficult at times, it’s worth it. “With the vinyl, you cut it and put it on the wall,” he explains. “With this product, when you cut, you have to paint each cut. It’s different from normal lap siding, but to me, it’s a different kind of craftsmanship, and this is the best of the best.”

The supplier for many of Gordon’s projects is Lumber Depot in New York Mills. Isaac Rutten says Lumber Depot has definitely been seeing an increase in this durable, pre-finished product.

“LP SmartSide is an engineered wood product that uses different types of resins and binders to bond it together,” he says. “This keeps out the moisture for durability and strength in harsh weather conditions.”

Diamond Kote Building Products re-manufactures and pre-finishes LP SmartSide, to innovate products like RigidStack with a 30-Year No Fade Warranty.

“It (RigidStack) basically stacks on top of each other, and you don’t have to use gauges or pre-set exposure length.”

Randy and Nancy Kirsch chose the Diamond Kote finished LP SmartSide when they recently remodeled their home on Big Pine Lake. The color choices and low maintenance were instrumental in their decision.

“It was important to us that we wouldn’t need to keep staining,” Nancy stresses. “Plus, there were so many color options to choose from, along with options to use different kinds of shakes for some of the peaks – making it unique, but keeping it classic.”

Rutten agrees that more and more people are looking for maintenance-free products, especially at the lake.

“They just want to come and relax and enjoy,” he adds.

“Besides its durability and low maintenance, it trims out really nice and looks terrific.”

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see more from this feature home in our Mar/Apr 2021 issue

What Kinds of Questions to Ask Merickel stresses that although price is an important factor in any building or home improvement project, you really “get what you pay for” when it comes to siding.

Some suggestions for what he thinks homeowners should be most concerned with include: • • • • •

Longevity of the product Product warranty Amount of maintenance necessary Installation requirements Regional considerations (It’s important to remember that certain sidings may perform better in our climate, which can go from -40 to 100 degrees.)

photo provided by Hebron Brick

Other observations from Merickel about the different types of materials include: • Wood has a timeless look, but the most maintenance, and can be pricey • Fiber cement is noncombustible, very strong, and budget friendly, but not the easiest to install • Vinyl is budget friendly, but has its drawbacks • Steel is tried and tested, and very durable • Cultured stone is a very common way to accent the exterior, but installation can be difficult and expensive As engineered wood becomes more trendy, Merickel emphasizes that it goes beyond trends with its easy installation and abundant choices in textures, styles, and colors.

“Although it can be pricey, we’ve found engineered wood has been the most popular choice for the past several years.”

With the fluctuating availability of natural resources, technological advances, and ever-changing design trends, our choices for exterior materials can only continue to expand. L&H

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DO IT YOURSELF

MATERIALS: • 6, 8-foot 2x4s • Miter saw (or circular saw, handsaw or jigsaw) • Drop cloth • Wood stain • 180-grit sandpaper • Disposable gloves • 3 cloths

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reating your own Jenga-style yard game is easier than you think. This project comes together in just one day.

Start by assembling your materials. Lay out the drop cloth.

Sand the 2x4s all over with 180-grit sandpaper to remove any splinters and rough edges. (You’ll want to choose 2x4s that are straight and relatively knot-free.) Make sure the surface feels smooth and level. Do this away from the drop cloth, so dust and debris don’t get mixed in with your wood stain later.

Wet a cloth until it’s slightly damp. Clean the wood until all dust is removed. Place the lumber on the clean, dry drop cloth. Put on your disposable gloves.

Dip a second slightly damp cloth into the wood stain. Apply a thin coat of stain to the top and sides of the lumber, using a back and forth motion. Continue applying thin coats until you reach the shade you want.

Wipe off any excess stain with a clean, dry cloth, moving in the direction of the grain.

Don’t push too hard, or you’ll take off too much and it will look streaky.

Allow the lumber to dry, following the directions on the wood stain label. When dry, flip the 2x4s over and repeat on the unstained sides.

Once dry, measure 10 ½ inches into the first 2x4. You’ll need to make the same cut 53 more times for a total of 54 pieces at 10 ½ inches each.

To save time, use the first piece as a template. You can lay it down on top of the other boards and use the straight edge to mark off 10 ½ inches. If you’re using a miter saw, you can create a stop block by clamping a piece of scrap wood onto the fence to give you a consistent cut every time.

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Sand the cut ends of all 54 pieces until everything is smooth. Remove excess dust with a damp cloth. Allow to dry.

Stack the wood pieces neatly on top of the drop cloth, with the unstained ends pointing out. Put your disposable gloves back on.

Dip the cloth you previously used for staining into the wood stain again. Apply a light coat of wood stain to the unstained ends of the pieces, using the same back and forth motion. The stain may look different on the ends of the pieces than it does on the tops, but don’t worry. This will add visual variety to the Jenga tower once it’s set up.

Remove excess stain with a clean, dry cloth.

Discard your disposable gloves and allow the boards to dry.

Once they’re dry, you’re ready to play! Place pieces in rows of threes, alternating between horizontal and vertical alignments.

Continue until you run out of pieces. L&H

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BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

Hebron Brick Supply, the legendary North Dakota brick manufacturing and sales company, is the gold standard in brick production and supply in the industry. This century-old company has grown and thrived while remaining true to the foundation of being a North Dakota company as well as being employee owned. Lake & Home Magazine had the pleasure to speak with Matt Hunt and Dan Berglind, associates of Hebron Fargo, to gain insight into the Hebron Brick Supply company.

WHAT PART OF THE HEBRON BRICK SUPPLY HISTORY STANDS OUT TO YOU? Hebron Brick Supply started in 1904, and we are the oldest manufacturing company

in North Dakota. We have a forward-thinking mentality that has allowed us to change, adapt and develop new products to continue to be relevant through all these years.

Hebron Brick Supply is still manufactured in Hebron, N.D., with a block manufacturing plant in Mandan, N.D.

WHAT IS THE CULTURE/ PHILOSOPHY OF HEBRON BRICK? We are a full employee-owned company, which is at the core of who we are as Hebron Brick Supply. On average, most employees have 10-20 years with the company, which speaks to the dedication of everyone who works at Hebron. This ESOP model, employee stock ownership plan, creates an individual philosophy of ownership which

drives our customer service model to exceed our clients’ expectations.

HOW MANY LOCATIONS DO YOU HAVE TO SERVE CLIENTS? Hebron Brick Supply has locations in Fargo, Minot, Bismarck, Grand Forks, Fergus Falls, Minn., Rapid City, S.D., and Sioux Falls, S.D. In the summer of 2022, we will be moving our Fargo store to West Fargo (901 Christianson Drive, West Fargo, ND) to offer our customers an enhanced shopping experience.

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The new location will offer an expanded showroom, a larger yard and with more materials for customers to choose from. Eventually a large outdoor display area of brick and stone products will be added to our new location. This new exterior display will be open 24/7 for clients to visit and view products at their convenience while seeing them lit up at night. It will be a unique opportunity for customers to view potential design options and see firsthand how beautiful Hebron bricks are in a natural setting.

WHAT CAN HEBRON BRICK SUPPLY INSTALL THAT WOULD SURPRISE PEOPLE? Our company offers a variety of products that extends beyond brick sales. We install fireplaces, design and install landscaping, and build outdoor kitchens and living spaces. One of the newest products we are carrying is steel siding from MAC Architectural. One of their innovative product lines of steel siding can mimic natural wood grain and has really filled a niche in the market of siding.

HOW CAN INSTALLING A NEW BRICK FACADE ON A HOME OR CABIN ENHANCE A HOMEOWNER’S EXPERIENCE? The very first thing you notice when you drive up to a home is its curb appeal. It’s what draws your eye to a home to make it visually pleasing. When a home or cabin has masonry brick, stone walls or new steel siding with a unique texture, you create a moment to take in and enjoy every time you come home.

The use of masonry products on a home or cabin not only adds a huge amount of curb appeal which in turn adds resale value, it is also a long-term investment. Bricks have a distinction of retaining their original look while being maintenance free, which is a solid investment and money well spent on home design or lake cabin updates.

HOW CAN HEBRON BRICK SUPPLY ASSIST LAKE CABIN OWNERS IN UPDATING THEIR PROPERTY? Our company can help cabin owners plan out a design for the exterior of a lake home, and on the landscape side we can help you design and give you a 3D color rendering

of the final plan. Hebron Brick Supply can also assist in the design and planning of the exterior of the lake home, the installation of fire pits, outdoor kitchens, and cozy fireplaces. These all contribute to the lake living experience.

If you choose to DIY the project, we will give a complete project list and give you a set of blueprints. Our experience and knowledge with lakeside properties allows us to help you navigate the lakes area watershed, and the rules and regulations that need to be followed.

IS THERE A STANDOUT BRICK AMONGST THE ROSTER OF HEBRON BRICKS THAT CLIENTS RAVE ABOUT? We have a wide range of brick options, varying in colors and textures that can fulfill any design or architecture plan. Our Authentic

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American Thin Brick line is extremely popular, and because of its design, no foundational support is needed. These thin bricks can be easily adhered to interior or exterior walls, and many clients paint them to add to the overall design scheme of their space.

WHAT IS THE MOST RECOGNIZABLE LOCAL LANDMARK THAT HAS USED HEBRON BRICKS? The Fargodome stands out as an area icon that was designed with Hebron bricks. This local 30-year-old landmark still looks as good today as it did the day the final brick was installed. It’s very special that we have this North Dakota landmark, and it’s all Hebron brick.

WHAT IS THE MOST GRATIFYING PART OF WORKING FOR HEBRON BRICK SUPPLY? The greatest part of this job is when you help a customer in the showroom, and after their design project is complete, they call and thank you personally. When we see that the finished project, whether residential or commercial, a small job or an expansive landscape design, has made our client happy and exceeded their expectations, that is what makes working for Hebron Brick Supply so special.

WHAT DESIGN TRENDS ARE EMERGING FOR 2022?

We are starting to see a large shift away from the use of manufactured stone, and movement towards implementing natural stone into design plans. One of the main reasons for this is the closing of the cost gap between manufactured and natural stone.

Brick is still the most cost-effective option to implement color and low maintenance design on your home or cabin. The use of bricks can convey multiple design aesthetics, from vintage farmhouse to modern minimalism, it is truly one of the most versatile options when it comes to design.

WHAT IS THE BEST WAY TO BEGIN A PROJECT WITH HEBRON BRICK SUPPLY? We would like to invite you to stop into one of our stores and have a salesperson walk you through our showroom and explain options that are available to meet your design needs. We carry a plethora of samples that you can look over and we can discuss different ways that we can help your vision come to life. Our website is easy to navigate and a great way to see the variety of options that we carry. We are proud to provide bricks nationwide, and ship our North Dakota made bricks to job sites across this country and into Canada.

We look forward to meeting with you soon.

L&H

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Peak season for bell peppers starts in July and this dish really highlights their beauty and flavor. I like to use one of each color so this dish really pops, but any color is fine—just buy what’s fresh.

The sauce is my take on sweet and sour sauce. The sweetness of the pineapple and brown sugar mirror the sweetness of the peppers and the acidity of the rice vinegar makes all the flavors sing. (Use apple cider vinegar if you don’t have rice vinegar handy.)

1 cup pineapple juice 1/3 cup rice vinegar 2 tbsp soy sauce 3/4 cup brown sugar 2 tbsp cornstarch 2 tbsp water 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, sliced into 1 inch cubes 2-3 tbsp sesame oil or olive oil 1 red pepper 1 yellow pepper 1 green pepper 1 yellow onion 3 garlic cloves, minced

photo and recipe by Alicia Underlee Nelson

RECIPES

Put juice, vinegar, soy sauce and sugar into a saucepan. Whisk together. Bring to a boil over medium high heat.

Mix cornstarch and water together until it becomes a slurry.

Once the sauce boils, add the cornstarch mixture. Stir until thickened. Remove from heat. Cool at room temperature.

Cube chicken into 1-inch pieces. Remove the seeds and ribs from the peppers. Cut them lengthwise into strips, then slice the strips in half. Slice onions into strips as well.

Heat enough oil to cover the bottom of a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, add chicken to the skillet. Stir and toss to cook for 7-10 minutes.

Remove from heat and set aside.

Add bell peppers and onion. Cook, stirring occasionally, until peppers are tender, about 7-10 minutes.

Add chicken and sauce to the skillet. Heat, stirring constantly, until warmed through.

Remove from heat. Serve with rice. L&H

Reduce heat to medium. Add more oil to the skillet if needed. When hot, add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.

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photo and recipe by Alicia Underlee Nelson

This colorful layer cake is absolutely addictive, but it’s not difficult at all. (In fact, the hardest thing about the recipe is waiting to eat it!) With just a few ingredients, a fridge, and a little time, you can make an impressive-looking cake in minutes. You don’t even need to turn on your oven.

This recipe draws from the nostalgic ice box desserts of the mid-1900s, but it looks fantastic on a modern table. Just be aware that it’ll be messy when you cut into it. That’s the nature of icebox cakes.

16oz. Container of Cool Whip Family Size Bag of Oreo Cookies 8 oz. Cream Cheese 2-21 oz. Cans of Cherry Pie Filling 1 Cup Powdered Sugar

If you want to make this cake a little less rich, you can use light Cool Whip and/or cherry pie filling without added sugar. You can also substitute Neufchâtel cheese for cream cheese or decrease the powdered sugar to taste.

Just make sure to leave it in the fridge for at least 12 hours, or the cookies will still be crunchy.

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RECIPES

Remove cream cheese from the refrigerator. Bring to room temperature, about 40-60 minutes.

Place ½ inch of Cool Whip across the bottom of a 9-inch round cake pan.

Place a layer of Oreo cookies on top, covering as much of the Cool Whip as possible.

Once cream cheese is at room temperature, place it in a mixing bowl.

Add powdered sugar. Mix on low until smooth.

Add 1 can of cherry pie filling to the mixing bowl. Blend by hand until combined.

Place cherry cream cheese mixture on top of the cookie layer in the pan.

JULY / AUG 2022

Add a second layer of cookies on top of the cherry cream cheese layer. Top with remaining Cool Whip. Spoon the second can of cherry pie filling on top of the cake.

Cover tightly with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator until the cookies are soft, at least 24 hours. Slice and serve cold. Keep refrigerated. L&H

www.lakeandhomemagazine.com 75

PRODUCT SHOWCASE

se the natural medium of wood to offer a solid and down home message to your guests, and yourself.

Life at the lake is always better for one reason or another. Naturally, many wood signs include little messages to remind us of this. “Live, Love, Lake” is a happy trio, offering homage to the classic “Live, Laugh, Love” in a more specific locale. “Loving Lake Life” is another trio with the similar alliteration. “Go jump in the lake” is a cute and fun suggestion seen on many lake house walls.

Look for it - in November/December 2019, Lake & Home Magazine

JULY / AUG 2022

www.lakeandhomemagazine.com 77

A wreath may sit well on the main entry and a daisy reminds us of spring, but it can also be a heartwarming replacement for the 'o' in Home or Welcome. Replacing a letter with a picture is nostalgic of our youth when we played pictograms, or created family art. Consider the globe where the 'o' sits in World, or a heart instead of the 'v' in Love. These images are seen in our national media often because it combines the reactions we have with both written words and imagery.

Look for it - at The Williams Company Store

The lake map has such a personalized feel for each lake home owner. A wooden custom cut sign that shows your lake might just be the perfect addition to your walls. These could include a mark where your house sits on the shore, coordinates, layers with lake depths, or other fun details about your happy place.

Look for it - at JQ Clothing Co 78 Lake & Home Magazine JULY / AUG 2022

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www.lakeandhomemagazine.com 79

We follow the rules in most places of our lives. When we get to relax at home or at the lake it should be a reprieve from these strict expectations, so we get to make up our own “rules.” Sometimes the title reads “House Rules” and others are “Lake Rules,” but all of them are about making the most of your time there.

The script itself sometimes rebels against the hard lines in the concept of rules, flowing and frivolous.

Look for it - at JQ Clothing Co

If you see a set of words that speaks to you, place it nearby so you can relive that moment you first saw them. Be it a reminder of your inner joy, or a thing that made you laugh, it's perfect right where it is. L&H

Lake & Home 2021 Mar/Apr & July/Aug

80 Lake & Home Magazine JULY / AUG 2022

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FEATURE HOME

T

ucked into a wooded lot on Gull Lake in Nisswa, Minn., is a quaint farmhouse-style home that owners Sue and Jeff McCormick initially thought of building as a place to entertain their large family. With their own children and their families, friends, and extended relatives visiting frequently, the McCormicks wanted more space, smart

The McCormicks wanted more space, smart design, main floor master suite living, and an abundance of light in the dwelling.

design, main floor master suite living, and an abundance of light in the dwelling.

Gull Lake is one of the largest lakes in the Brainerd area and its boundaries are in two counties, Cass and Crow Wing. It is one of the area’s most popular lakes for recreation and vacationing and its 15.54 square miles offer an abundance of water for boating, wa-

terskiing, swimming, and fishing. The lake is home to many types of fish, including walleye, bluegill, largemouth bass, black crappie, and others, among the 35 types of aquatic life the lake boasts. Gull Lake’s shoreline is highly developed, as well-known resorts Cragun’s, Madden’s, and Grand View Lodge, along with 16 others, draw thousands of visitors to the lake each year.

“They truly listened to what our ideas and goals were, and that is what made the difference in this build.”

Sue McCormick - homeowner

For each shoreline mile, there are 28 homes or cabins. Yet, despite the residential and commercial occupancy, Gull Lake is still a spot where one can find a peaceful sunrise over glistening water and a warm sunset amongst the trees and sounds of wildlife.

Inspired by the popular “new farmhouse” designs and aesthetic, the McCormicks worked with Barry Frieler and Dennis Blosberg of North Country Custom Builders Inc., of Nisswa. The company is one the McCormicks have hired previously, based on the quality of workmanship they have delivered and the ease of communication between the parties.

“They truly listened to what our ideas and goals were,” Sue McCormick said, “and that is what made the difference in this build.”

Founded in 2001, North Country Custom Builders specializes in custom legacy lake homes throughout the Brainerd Lakes area.

Frieler has been in construction since the age of 12, when he assisted his grandfather and uncle on projects in Lake Henry, Minn.

It was then that he learned drywall, demolition, roofing, and all other aspects of building and remodeling.

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Working alongside his uncle for several years, Freiler eventually became a professional contractor. He moved to Brainerd to work for another builder, but after a few years, his desire to bring his skill and craftsmanship to life took hold and North Country Custom Builders was launched.

The overall layout of the home was a critical point for the McCormicks as they desired a home that would be amply-sized, but with warmth and character. Having an open concept plan was important, yet they wanted rooms to feel quaint and lived in, which is a key concept of the modern farmhouse design. Rather than replicate historic farmhouses, which typically have small rooms, several doors, and boxed-in layouts with little storage space, today’s designs tend to be the opposite; open and airy, with farmhouse touches.

Beams, traditional cabinetry, nickel gap (which is commonly called “shiplap”), wood floors, and dėcor touches that harken to the past are aspects of present-day homes that reflect a bygone era, but bring in the look of an older home. “This was the first farmhouse style dwelling we have built,”

The McCormick home’s open concept

plan includes a great room with exposed beams.

“We like the simplicity of this type of design, metal elements, and a stylish-yetsimple look.”

Sue McCormick - homeowner

Sue stated. “We like the simplicity of this type of design, metal elements, and a stylish-yet-simple look.” Additionally, Sue and Jeff paid close attention to adding locally-made, artisan-crafted finishes to make it especially meaningful.

The McCormick home's open concept plan includes a great room with exposed beams, including rafter tails, which is a common look of an old farmhouse. Used in conjunction with fresh design and new types of decor and furnishing, the beams blend in with just the right amount of rustic texture. The final piece, a fireplace by Up North Fireplace Gallery of Brainerd, brings the room together, adding yet another gathering spot for family and friends.

The McCormicks felt strongly about the kitchen being a focal point of their design.

“We love having a great kitchen and that is really something that we had to create in this home,” Sue remarked. “With a big fami-

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ly, it’s essential for the gatherings we have.”

The result is a sunny and warm, bright kitchen with a large island that faces the lake.

There is plenty of space to move around while cooking or having parties, while seating is available as well. This allows traffic flow and areas to cook while guests mingle.

The custom hood above the stove is of particular appeal to the McCormicks. It was designed and built by Jeff Kreitz of Breezy Point-based Creative Steel and adds a unique visual to the kitchen; it’s a focal point that is unexpected. “Not many people think about hoods as a possible point of interest!”

Sue laughed. “But, for us, this was a substantial detail that adds to the overarching appeal of the space.”

In addition to the metal hood, brushed nickel hardware is used throughout the kitchen and the custom cabinets were designed

by Wood Products, which also supplied the teak countertops. Granite in the home was supplied by Lake Country Granite, a business located in Pequot Lakes, Minn.

The pantry door off the kitchen is set with frosted-pane glass on the upper half and antique-style lettering designating the area.

This nostalgic style is one that is modern farmhouse style and popular, especially on home dėcor items ranging from signs to kitchen items.

Farmhouses often included big porches. These provided a spot to enjoy a cool breeze, join friends for a visit, or simply relax after a long day of hard work. Many older homes had four-season porches, as these would add extra sleeping space as well, if needed. The McCormick home’s version is a delightful spot for coffee time, a meal, or taking time out to rest. The doors to the porch were crafted by Iron Fire, located in Brainerd, and are a custom barn door style.

In order to give an elongated, more expansive look, the doors are mirrored, a feature uncommon to this style of door. The room’s ceiling was done in a painted pine nickel gap and in frame-to-finish fashion.

Throughout the structure, top-quality Marvin Essentials windows were installed in

the porch; these provide efficiency as well as durability. Designed in Warroad, Minn., they have been built to withstand even the most extreme Minnesota weather and with a design that includes several windows, the McCormick’s house offers a plethora of opportunities to see the lake and surrounding natural beauty of the property.

For the flooring of the home, luxury vinyl was installed by MCI of Baxter. This popular choice is easy to clean, can handle high traffic, and works well in a large and open space such as the McCormick home. Luxury vinyl has surged in popularity over the past 10 years and is now a leading option for homebuyers and designers. The availability of several styles and colors, along with its functional attributes, make this a frequent go-to when choosing flooring.

The beams in the McCormick home are done with reclaimed wood that Manomin Resawn Timbers of Hugo, Minn., procured in Minnesota and Kentucky. These authen-

“Kaylin Peters was tremendous to work with and had many ideas that we liked.”

tic beams add to the rustic touches of the home and are a standout in its design. They have a major impact in the great room/living area as well as the master bedroom with their size and placement.

The McCormicks - homeowners Kaylin Peters at Great Furniture Gallery was instrumental, the McCormicks commented, in helping to choose the right furniture and dėcor to complement the home and their preferences. “She was tremendous to work with and had many ideas that we liked.” Another key vendor for the McCormick project was Gull Lake Glass. Kerri Vastila represented the company, which supplied and installed three shower doors with panels.

“Of these, there is one that is a frameless door and panel that has clear tempered glass with chrome hardware,” Vastila said.

“Another is a frameless barn door slider with clear tempered glass and matte black hardware.” The third is a unique custom design door and panel; this door also features matte black hardware. “What makes the third one stand out,” Vastila added, “is the transom above the door, the grid design in the panel, and how it incorporates shower door materials as well as commercial

90 Lake & Home Magazine JULY / AUG 2022

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grade extrusions.” Vastila remarked that in the farmhouse style homes currently being built, the black hardware has become popular and clear glass in showers works well to show off tile and keep the room looking sleek.

Jeff Kreitz, designer of the kitchen hood, also designed a custom vanity in the master bathroom. The tile throughout the house, done by Bluestone Installations, includes a clean-finish subway tile in the master bath and a special chevron patterned design in the Jack and Jill bath. The chevron pattern gives the wall an appeal that is different from the standard on the market.

When it came time to think about guest accommodations, one thing was quickly addressed; the McCormicks wanted their guests to have privacy, including their own en suite bathrooms. The three guest rooms are equipped with private baths, with one including an en suite and the other two sharing a Jack and Jill bath. These are located away from the main floor master suite.

“It’s more comfortable for guests to have their own space,” Sue commented. “This floorplan works well to achieve that goal.”

Although two of the four bedrooms in the home do not look over the water, two guest rooms and the master suite feature a view of the lake, a special added bonus to the layout.

The property where the home sits on Wilson Bay of Gull Lake did pose a few challenges pre-construction as the acreage included wetlands. These had to be addressed through surveys, planning, and attention to codes and zoning, but the builders were able to design the property to accommodate the desired size of the home and the intended position.

Frieler explained that before any design or construction could begin on this particu-

“They have very bright ideas and they actually can and will implement them. That is something that speaks volumes about their abilities and their work ethic.”

The McCormicks - Homeowners

The McCormicks also stated their

builders are highly skilled in coming up with creative solutions to tricky problems.

92 Lake & Home Magazine JULY / AUG 2022

lar project, seven months of working with permits and soil correction took place. The controlled reserve required a wetland infill and, along with other agencies, Cass County was involved in the process and had set regulations regarding the size of the property versus the amount of impervious coverage.

On the builder side, Frieler stated the goal was to maintain the desired footprint of the home while maximizing space. The four bedroom home is a two-story structure that achieved this, while ensuring all compliance. “It was definitely an in-depth process,” Frieler said, “but everyone worked together to find the right solutions.”

“We had worked with Barry and Dennis years ago,” explained Sue, “when we remodeled on Wilson Bay. It was several years ago and we wanted to add on to our home.”

The McCormicks had very young children at the time and were quickly outgrowing their space, so they enlisted the services of Frieler and Blosberg and their crew to help them reconfigure and update their home. They added bedroom suites, revamped stair-

ways, and added square footage to boost the comfort level of their growing family.

“We keep going back to them because they are so easy to work with!” Sue said. “They are professional and so detail-oriented. Barry is on the scene for projects, always replies to calls and texts, and is just very responsive, which we appreciate.” Frieler jokes that it’s his job to make sure that sawdust is happening, so he makes it a point to be present at job sites and ensure production.

The McCormicks also stated their builders are highly skilled in coming up with creative solutions to tricky problems. “They have very bright ideas and they actually can and will implement them,” said Sue. “That is something that speaks volumes about their abilities and their work ethic.”

A few years later, the McCormicks have had yet another home built on Gull Lake by the team at North Country Custom Builders Inc., which Frieler stated was a welcome invitation as the couple is a pleasure to work with. Sue commented, “We like the process with them and enjoy seeing our ideas come to fruition, along with their expertise coming into play.” L&H

CouLDn’t have done it without:

North Country Custom Builders | BUILDER Advantage Seamless Inc. | GUTTERS

Fiks-Con Inc. | ROOFING

R&R Cleaning Service | CLEANING

Fyles Satellites Inc.

Sather Concrete Products, Inc

The Great Furniture Gallery | FURNITURE GTR Execucare, Inc. | PAINTING Gull Lake Glass | SHOWER DOOR Kevin's Plumbing & Heating, LLC | HVAC

All Season Heating & AC | HVAC

Kosec Construction, LLC | EXCAVATING

American Door Works | OVERHEAD DOORS • View our ad on page 91

Arro Land Surveying of Brainerd LLC | SURVEYING

Builders First Source | LUMBER/WINDOWS/INSULATION

Creative Steel Works LLC | CUSTOM METAL FABRICATION/ART

Crosslake Roloff & Recycling Services | PROFESSIONAL WASTE MANAGEMENT

Expert Insulation Of Brainerd Inc.

Schroeder's Appliance Center | APPLIANCES

Sharp-Edge Hardwood Floors, LLC | FLOORING

• View our ad on page 93

Aitkin Hardwoods | LUMBER • View our ad on page 117

| CONTRACTOR

| PORTABLE SANITARY FACILITIES

Lake Country Granite and Tile | TILE

Shingledecker Concrete and Construction, Inc | CONCRETE Sound Communications | HOME THEATER • View our ad on page 87

Blue Water Wells, Inc. | WELL

Southern Lights | LIGHTING

Lerfald Construction, LLC | CONTRACTOR

Tim Borg Construction | DRYWALL

Manomin Resawn Timbers

Tin Man Siding, LLC | SIDING

| RECLAIMED TIMBERS

Martin Joyce Septic Service, LLC | SEPTIC DESIGN

TWM Architecture | ARCHITECT Wood Products Unlimited | CABINETRY • View our ad on page 91, 117

MCI Carpet One Floor and Home | FLOORING

Up North Fireplace Gallery | FIREPLACE • View our ad on page 85

• View our ad on page 89

Northview Electric, Inc. | ELECTRIC

| WATERPROOFING/INSULATION

JULY / AUG 2022

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FEATURE HOME

W

hen Kelly and Lee Hein came across a gorgeous corner lot on Lake Oscar, they knew that these two acres of land were what they needed for their next home.

The homeowners purchased a double lot with its 502 square feet of sandy shoreline just 10 minutes outside Alexandria, Minn., and began the process of building their dream home.

This four-bedroom, three-and-a-half-bathroom single-family home includes 2,758 square feet on the main level with a second floor of 914 square feet. A crawl space spans the full length of the house and a room for utilities, storage, and a place to take shelter during extreme weather.

The oversized two-stall garage gives the homeowners extra space for their additional freezer, a broom closet, and a storage locker.

When the homeowners decided to build, they asked around, and after a few interviews, decided to go with Jeremy Fuller and Lance Freking of Central Construction Inc.

“When Jeremy and Lance met with us, they gave us all these ideas as if it was their house, and we hadn’t even hired them yet,” Kelly said.

“They guided us through decisions we had to make during the building process and offered better solutions,” Kelly added. “We were so impressed with Jeremy, Lance, and Levi (their finishing carpenter), and are so glad we went with them.”

Fuller and Freking of Central Construction Inc, who have been partners for the past several years, specialize in building custom homes.

“You start the building process with a 2D drawing, but until you get into the space, sometimes you don’t know how it will work, so (Lance and I) put a lot of work into helping our clients with minor changes from start to finish,” said Fuller. “Lee and Kelly were great to work with.”

“We were so impressed with Jeremy, Lance, and Levi (their finishing carpenter), and are so glad we went with them.”

Kelly Hein | Homeowner

Fuller of CCI asked Ashley Trousil from HighPoint Interior Design if she would be able to help the Hein’s pick out colors, carpets, and countertops for the home.

When Trousil’s schedule became full, she suggested the homeowners work with Sara Godfrey Design. The homeowners are so grateful for the help Trousil gave them and her willingness to point them to another designer in the area.

“Sara is top-notch,” Kelly said. “She said she could order everything for us, or she could go room by room and make suggestions and then give us the links for items we chose so we could order it ourselves.”

“There isn’t one subcontractor that wasn't a top-notch person that we would not recommend,” Kelly added.

The outside of the home includes LP Smartside siding painted by Josh Sinning Painting and Finishing and stone accents on the pillars outside the front door and around the garage doors.

Large cedar beams beautifully frame the front door. Dormers on the garage and the roof over the stamped concrete patio are both accented with metal. The contractor also built flower boxes for the home and included electric outlets to make it easier for the homeowners to hang outdoor lights.

The back of the home includes a striking accent wall with various sizes of stone from Alex Brick & Stone.

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Colorful Seasons helped the homeowners with all of the landscaping on the property.

The back patio is made of pavers with a fire table on it which is perfect for entertaining.

Built into the patio is a hot tub that is partially buried into the hill so it wouldn’t block the view of the lake from the master bedroom.

Partway down the hill towards the lake are concrete steps leading to a second patio space with a smokeless fire pit. Additional evergreens were purchased for the property from Wayne-N-Jean’s Evergreens out of Morris, Minn.

The first structure that was built on the property was a specious metal shed with three large stalls and garage doors from Viking Garage. It includes storage, bathroom, workbench, galvanized sink, fish cleaning table, and the shed is also fully heated.

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The back of the shed also includes a 308-square-foot entertainment space. Since there isn’t a basement in the home, the Hein family wanted to be sure to have a place for visitors to gather.

Lee is an avid hunter and outdoorsman, so there is an array of wildlife displayed throughout the space, from walleye to a billy goat he got in British Columbia.

This unique lakeside hangout includes a fridge with a freezer, sink, reclaimed wood cabinets, beautiful LVP flooring, and galvanized steel on the wall and can be used yearround. It also has a window that opens up to an outdoor patio.

Originally the ceiling was covered in pine, but Godfrey suggested they have artist Blake Holte do something special. Ultimately they decided on the American flag, inspired by many elements, including a shadow box with Lee’s father’s flag.

A unique piece in the space is the vintage Coca-Cola machine. Kelly bought the vending machine for Lee as a Christmas present, and now it is fully stocked with beer for the adults and soda pop for the children.

When you first walk into the home, you are struck by the amazing view of the lake through the west-facing windows. A built-in cubby with coat hooks and storage baskets sits to the right.

The Heins liked some unique white pine tables at one of their favorite restaurants and decided to find out who made them and ordered two custom tables for their entertainment space.

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The sixteen-foot vaulted ceiling features faux beams and an elegant chandelier. Much of the home, including this cozy space, has LVP flooring from Arnquist Home Center. The homeowners wanted to be sure to have flooring that was beautiful, durable, and low maintenance for all the activity that life on the lake brings.

“Adam Arnquist did a great job helping us with the flooring,” Kelly said. The living room, as well as the sunroom and master bedroom, have automatic blinds.

“There isn’t one subcontractor that wasn't a top-notch person that we would not recommend.”

Kelli Hein | Homeowner

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The master bedroom is to the north of the living room, with its vaulted ceiling, barn doors, and a great view of the lake. The master bathroom has heated floors, a freestanding soaking tub, a tile shower, and beautiful cabinetry with granite countertops. A large walk-in closet in the master suite has custom cabinetry.

The house was designed around the heart of the home. “We wanted to be able to look out at the lake when we were in the kitchen,” Kelly said.

The granite countertops around the perimeter of the kitchen are neutral in color, while the island countertop is complementary in color and pattern. The island is made of a beautifully stained knotty alder, and white shaker-style cabinetry fills the remainder of the kitchen. The striking faux brick backsplash contrasts beautifully with the white and wood.

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The cabinets throughout the whole home, the shed, and the entertainment space off of the shed were all done by A & A Custom Wood Products out of Dundas, Minn. “This is the third home Jason of A & A has done cabinets in for us,” Kelly said. “He’s so precise and helps you design what you want in your home.”

A coffee bar, complete with a small sink, beverage fridge, and stowaway appliance storage for the coffee maker and Keurig makes it easier for the homeowners to keep the countertops clean. A drawer microwave and builtin dividers complete the coffee bar.

A weathered wood kitchen table sits in front of large windows. Its black chairs match the stools around the kitchen island.

A barn door off the kitchen leads to a large walk-in pantry. The room includes a custom wood countertop in the shape of a “C”, open cabinetry above and below, and a custom shelf for when Kelly is canning.

Also off the kitchen with its view of the lake is the sunroom. Nickel gap tongue and groove panels painted white cover the ceiling, and a gas fireplace insert from Alex Brick & Stone adds a touch of cozy to the room. Jason Aldorfer of A & A built the hefty wood mantel, which contrasts beautifully with the metal surround of the fireplace.

Blue checkered carpet adds a little extra flair to the sunroom, which is a favorite room for both homeowners and guests. The space is a great place to relax, connect and view the beautiful sunsets together.

The window treatments throughout the home, including the sheers and panels in the sunroom, are from Carpet One Floor & Home.

When you walk into the house from the garage to the right you will find a flex room with green cabinetry and a wood countertop. Across the hall from the flex room is the mudroom, which includes a bench, a washer and dryer, a space for a dog kennel, a sink, and cabinets with a laminate countertop.

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A full bathroom off of the kitchen completes the rooms on the first floor of the home.

Behind a wall in the kitchen is a stairway leading to the second floor of the home where you will find three cozy, carpeted bedrooms. There is also a full bathroom as well as a half-bathroom, which is convenient when multiple visitors spend the weekend.

Life on Lake Oscar is sure to be full of memory-making for years to come for the Hein family. L&H

CouLDn’t have done it without: Central Construction Inc. | BUILDER Sara Godfrey Design | INTERIOR DESIGNER Dufner Insulation | INSULATION

• View our ad on page 117

Hilltop Lumber | BUILDING MATERIALS • View our ad on page 13, 103

Ellingson Plumbing & Heating | HVAC

A&A Custom Wood Products | CABINETS

Josh Sinning Painting & Finishing

Viking Garage | GARAGE

| PAINTING • View our ad on page 101

Arnquist Carpet Plus | FLOORING • View our ad on page 97, 117

Berg Plumbing | PLUMBING Jolt Electric | ELECTRIC Waldorf Excavation | EXCAVATING

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Bitzan/Ohren Masonry | CONCRETE

• View our ad on page 101

Colorful Seasons | LANDSCAPING Alex Brick and Stone | FIREPLACE • View our ad on page 19

JULY / AUG 2022

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L

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118 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 hardpressed 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 in-store 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. 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. Check Facebook for current hours and activities.

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!

Otter Affogato "A scoop of ice cream with a shot of espresso"

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!

Try Our Frappuccinos

Otter Coffee “Sweeties” Sorbet (plant based, vegan, gluten free) YUM! 16 Flavors of Hard Ice Cream Take out/curbside delivery available, call ahead 218-342-4702 JULY / AUG 2022

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CREATIVE TOUCH BOUTIQUE

UTKE’S COUNTRY PINE FURNISHINGS

516 Broadway St | Alexandria, MN | 320-762-8786 www.creativetouchboutique.com Open seven days a week | Follow us on

21697 US 71 | Park Rapids, MN 56470 (218) 732-3860 | www.utkescountrypinefurnishings.com Summer Hours: Monday - Saturday 10 am - 5 pm Sunday Noon - 3 pm Utke’s Country Pine Furnishings is your cabin décor headquarters!

Opened in 1996, we offer a variety of pine, cedar and hickory furnishings, from log to traditional. Along with our distinctive furniture, we have a great selection of “up north” gifts and accessories. Always something new to see!

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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THE BRIC

PERIWINKLE MARKETPLACE

215 W Lincoln Ave | Fergus Falls, MN 218-998-2225 Open Mon thru Fri 10am - 6pm | Sat 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

The Bric in downtown Fergus Falls was again voted Otter Tail County’s Best Woman’s clothing store! We offer small-3xl, but the fun doesn’t stop there. We continue to expand your shopping experience with...

• Baby Gifts

• Bridal

• Anniversary

• Girl Friend

• Kitchen

• Gourmet/Candy

• Jewelry

• Shoes

• Bath & Body

If that isn’t enough, you’ll find unique, on-trend décor throughout both levels of our store! The only disappointment our customers ever experienced is not having enough time to stay longer!

And if that happens, we invite you to stay connected with us on Facebook and Instagram.

Shop The Bric in downtown Fergus Falls.

Welcome to Periwinkle! All Things Lake!

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 22 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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6TH & BROADWAY

Shop In-Store or Online 528 Broadway St | Alexandria, MN www.sixthandbroadway.com 320-763-3313 | Owner: Kari Lempka Also find us on @sixth.and.broadway Summer Hours through Labor Day Mon-Sat 10-6 | Sun 1-4 Conveniently shop our app: 6th & Broadway Clothing 6th & Broadway Clothing and Décor 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. Comfortably shop our boutique with confidence and dress to impress!

Let us help you be a summer sensation with a fresh high-end look with style as beautiful as you.

We love to help you put together the perfect look for any occasion; one that truly reflects your personal style.

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409 W Stanton Ave | Fergus Falls, MN 218-998-4147 Tuesday - Friday Open at 10am and Saturday Open at 9am Open Late ‘Til 8 (Memorial Day Thru Labor Day) 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. Owner, Lisa Anderson, will help you with a personal touch. She will assist you every step of the way with all of your framing needs.

One stop shop for Fusion Mineral Paint!

Capture nature's elegance with your own Jay Rasmussen aluminum photographic image.

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BEYOND THE MITRED CORNERS

Our private or group 6th & Broadway personal style experiences are incredibly fun... Give us a call to get scheduled.

Jeans, jeans, and more jeans that fit to flatter. As a proud Destination Liverpool shop, we can assure you an unforgettable denim discovery adventure!

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ROSE GALLERY

RUSTY ANCHOR

Shop online: MarcellaRose.com (218) 290-4599 marcella@MarcellaRose.Com

227 West Main Street | Ottertail, MN 56571 218.367.3931 | Find us on Facebook Open 7 Days a Week

Marcella’s inspirational fine art encompasses original oil paintings, bronze sculptures, sculpted sterling jewelry — and archival limited-edition gicleé prints. Set up a private gallery appointment to shop available art, or to commission an original painting.

Shop our unique multi-vendor store. We sell a variety of vintage, repurposed, painted and new products. Something for the whole family!

The Shed — NOW OPEN — Flowers and Garden Gifts

A percentage of proceeds from Marcella’s series ‘Song of Nokotas’ benefit the Nokota Horse Conservancy in Linton, N.D.

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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 Highway 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 exotic and domestic hardwood options for the creative wood projects in your home.

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JQ CLOTHING CO. 825 Washington Avenue | Detroit Lakes, MN Open Monday to Saturday 10am-6pm 701-742-5638 503 Main Ave | Oakes, ND 338 Pacific Ave | Medora, ND Check us out online and on socials 24/7 www.jqclothingco.com | @jqclothingco

JQ Clothing Co. has got the perfect outfit for you! Stop in and check out our selection of cute tops, bottoms, dresses, accessories, + more! We carry sizes small – 3XL, and can’t wait to help you find just what you are looking for!

Be sure and check us out at our other locations!

Oakes, ND Medora, ND and at the Shady Hollow Flea Market in Detroit Lakes with our mobile boutique!

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ELM STREET BOUTIQUE 146 East Main Street | Vergas, MN 56587 (218) 342-3301 Stop by Elm Street Boutique on Main Street in downtown Vergas for a great selection of Tribal and Lulu B clothing, summer dresses, comfy tops, and jewelry. Great quality clothing with small town service.

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FOREST EDGE GALLERY

CREATIVE HANDMADE GOODS & SOAPWERKS NATURALS

46461 295th Ave | Vergas, MN 56587 (218) 342-2681 | www.forestedgeartgallery.com Open Memorial weekend thru Labor Day weekend Tues – Sat 11-5 | Sun 11-3 | Closed Mondays After Labor Day thru the end of October Open Weekends: Sat 11-5 | Sun 11-3 Open by Appointment Also | Follow us on:

216 West Lincoln Ave | Fergus Falls, MN 56537 (425) 244-1446 | www.creativehandmadegoods.com Open Year Round / Summer Hours: Mon-Sat 10am-5:30pm & Late ‘Til 8 on Thursday Evenings

Forest Edge Gallery is a fine art and fine crafts gallery just 4 1/2 miles northwest of Vergas, Minn. The gallery features the artwork of the owners – Patrick Shannon and Helena Johnson, as well as artists from the area and across the U.S. You will find metalwork, pottery, paintings, jewelry, fused and blown glass, laser art and much more from many talented artists.

The gallery has beautiful floral gardens with Patrick Shannon’s copper and steel sculptures on display.

Located in the heart of downtown, we are primarily a makers market featuring the work of over 40 local makers from potters to painters and weavers to woodworkers. We offer a huge selection of locally crafted soaps and small batch bath and body products made just down the block from our shop.

When we are unable to connect with a local or regional maker for items in the shop, we select items from other US-based small makers. Our staff is knowledgeable, welcoming, friendly, and always ready to help you find the perfect gift for someone special, or a unique item for yourself or your home away from home at the lake. We haven’t forgotten about the kiddos, the men in your life, or even Fido. We carry a small selection of items geared toward kids, mens, and pets.

Our shop is changing all the time as our makers bring in new items and we change things up to make sure you get a chance to see it all. We hope you will stop in and see us soon.

You can also shop items online at creativehandmadegoods.com, or find us on Facebook and Instagram where we frequently post new items and special sales or event information on our channels.

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HEATING | AC | GEOTHERMAL

INSULATION

LUMBER

ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR

MASONRY

WINDOW TREATMENTS

ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR

FLOORING

CABINETS

ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR

BUILDING MATERIALS

CABINETS

QUARTZ & GRANITE

MARINE / WATERCRAFT REPAIR

SHOWERS

HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING

FEATURE LAKE

Size: 827 Acres Max Depth: 25 ft.

Shore Length: 18.43 mi.

Clarity: 5.8 ft.

Source: Minnesota Department of Natural Resources

Lake Oscar is a shallow, productive basin located four miles west of Holmes City. Surface acreage and depth of the lake increased greatly with heavy rains and storm water runoff in the mid-1980s. Following installation of an outlet culvert, lake levels have stabilized.

Current surface water area of the basin is digitized at 1,231 acres. Maximum depth is 25.0 feet. Average depth of the lake is estimated at 13.0 feet. Submerged tree stumps are common in shallow areas. Water transparency has improved over time to average approximately 7.0 feet during summer months. Due to expanses of shallow water and increasing water clarity, Lake Oscar supports a robust commu-

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nity of submergent aquatic plants, which includes Eurasian watermilfoil. Public access is located on the north shore, just off MN-27. Oscar Lake supports abundant largemouth bass and panfish populations. Walleyes and muskellunge are stocked to sustain fishable populations.

The abundance and diversity of aquatic plants and flooded timber provide great habitat for largemouth bass in Oscar Lake. Daytime electrofishing catches were lower than anticipated, but the catch rate of 37.1 bass/hour of effort described a moderately-abundant population.

Bass captures ranged from 8.6 to 18.2 inches in total length. Forty-three percent of the total catch measured 15.0 inches and larger.

Oscar Lake supports good panfishing opportunities. Black crappies continue to be abundant in response to elevated annual recruitment in 2014, 2016, and 2017. Age distribution of crappie captures extended to age 9, so 34 percent of the catch was comprised of 10.0-inch and larger fish. Those fish 7 years old and older were 12.0 inches or larger. Bluegills also proved to be abundant. Bluegill captures averaged 6.2 inches in length. The largest capture measured 8.9 inches. Four percent of bluegills captured in trap nets exceeded 8.0 inches. Yellow perch catches were relatively high, but very few were large enough to harvest. Average size of perch captures was 7.1 inches. L&H

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