Lake&Home Magazine Nov/Dec '23

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YEAR 24 • ISSUE 6 NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2023

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Lake & Home Magazine November / December 2023

November / December 2023

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CONTENTS

What's Inside YEAR 24 • ISSUE 6 • NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2023

12 MEET OUR STAFF 14 FROM THE OFFICE

by Dawn Duncan

KITCHEN & BATH

18 FLOATING VANITIES

A fresh look for your bathroom

by Alicia Underlee Nelson

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KITCHEN & BATH

28 THE ART OF SPRUCING UP YOUR BATHROOM

by Devin Joubert Cover photo by Kip Johnson

FEATURE HOME

KITCHEN & BATH

40 LET'S SINK IN

Showstopping sinks that work in day-to-day life

by Alicia Underlee Nelson

Mediterranean Influence WITH FAMILY IN MIND

by Patrice Peterson

RECIPES

50 MINI PUMPKIN PIES Recipe by Stephanie Disse

INTERIOR DESIGN

52 FUN FINDS

LIVING

64 ELEVATE YOUR LIFESTYLE

subscribe online at: www.lakeandhomemagazine.com

From the Lakes Area

by Dawn Duncan

At-home saunas, hot tubs and fitness rooms

by Devin Joubert

RECIPES

50 BEEF STEW

EXTERIORS

72 KEEPING YOUR COOL

Recipe by Stephanie Disse

Ice dams and how to prevent them

by Jeff Essig - Clean 'N Seal

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Mini Pumpkin Pies Recipe by Stephanie Disse

Floating Vanities A FRESH LOOK FOR YOUR BATHROOM

by Alicia Underlee Nelson

FEATURE HOME

History Honored BIG DETROIT REFLECTION AND RENOVATION

by Erin Foley

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78 FEATURE LAKE Lake Melissa

FEATURE HOME

80 MEDITERRANEAN INFLUENCE with family in mind

by Patrice Peterson

FEATURE HOME

94 HISTORY HONORED

Big Detroit reflection and renovation

by Erin Foley

106 LAKE GIFTS | SHOPPING 110 SERVICE DIRECTORY

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Year 24, Issue 5 • November / December 2023 PUBLISHER & CREATIVE - Kip Johnson MANAGING EDITOR - Dawn Duncan 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.

Back issues are available for $5.00 per issue, plus shipping and handling.

Subscriptions can be purchased online at lakeandhomemagazine.com/products

LAKE & HOME MAGAZINE Published bimonthly by Compass Media | 126 S Vine St | Fergus Falls, MN 56537

www.lakeandhomemagazine.com artwork@lakeandhomemagazine.com Unless previously agreed, all rights remain the sole property of Lake & Home Magazine. ©2023 Compass Media. Except for purposes of review, material contained herein may not be reproduced without prior written consent. Printed by LSC Communications.

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Lake & Home Magazine November / December 2023

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FROM THE OFFICE

From the Office

It’s hard to believe we are already prepping for the holidays, but another year is in its twilight and we are now looking forward to opening our homes to guests to celebrate this special season! Kicking off with Thanksgiving, we once again see that our kitchens are the heart of the home and will serve as the central hub for cooking and entertaining. Our featured homes this issue certainly lend themselves to this and are designed for maximum efficiency, comfort, and flow.

Houses are sometimes full wall-to-wall during the holidays with friends and family gathered together, children running about, and a few pets here and there, too. At times, celebrations might be very small. In any case, the home and the ambiance it offers are essential to that feeling that only the holidays can bring.

Along with thinking of the holidays, this issue focuses on kitchens and baths. These are the key areas of a home, no matter what its age or style. Kitchens and baths are also the selling points for a home as they tend to be popular with buyers, so definitely rooms to concentrate on when it comes to remodeling. We have also added a new column that is centered around sprucing up specific areas. In this issue, we are showcasing the bath and offering suggestions for small to large changes to improve the room’s look and functionality.

Don’t miss another new column called “Fun Finds.” In this new feature, I’m bringing you editor’s picks of retail items that you can find at various shops in the lakes region. Many of the stores in our area offer unique options for the home, including locally-made and artisan goods. Boutiques tend to offer pieces that aren’t found in the mainstream market, so perfect spots to check out if you want something a bit out of the norm.

Our feature homes are located on Big Detroit and Lake Andrusia and, although different styles from one another, they each offer exceptional design and building qualities that are not to be missed!

Enjoy this time of the year as we move into the holidays and winter. It is our hope that your home provides the wonderful coziness of the season. L&H Best,

Dawn Duncan Managing Editor

See more from this home on page 94 Photo by Kip Johnson

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KITCHEN & BATH

loating vanities inject a contemporary look into an ordinary bathroom. They’re bold and modern, with a sleek look that homeowners love. However, there are benefits and drawbacks to installing a floating vanity. We connected with lakes area designers to learn exactly what floating vanities are, how they’re installed, and which types of bathrooms suit them best.

PHOTO FEATURED IN LAKE & HOME Jul/Aug 2023 PHOTOGRAPHER Kip Johnson

What exactly is a floating vanity?

Unlike freestanding vanities (which rest of the floor on a base or legs), a floating vanity appears to hover high above the floor.

But this is an illusion; the vanity is actually mounted to the wall.

“Often, there is a bracket that is first installed, using studs to anchor the bracing,” explains Jamie Wallace, designer and owner of Calla Lily Designs in Fergus Falls. “And then the vanity fits over the top of the bracket, allowing it to be concealed.”

Clean lines

PHOTO FEATURED IN LAKE & HOME Jan/Feb 2023

“A benefit of a floating vanity is to make your space look larger,” says Amber Peluso, a designer at Center of Design in Audubon. “It also is a good way to mix modernity into the home regardless of what type of finish the vanity is.”

PHOTOGRAPHER Kip Johnson

The lack of visible supports makes the vanity feel airy, almost weightless, which can really open up a small or crowded room. The emphasis on negative space creates an almost spa-like atmosphere that’s right on trend for bathrooms. The look also plays well in contemporary, minimalistic interiors where sharp lines are prized.

A benefit of a floating vanity is to make your space look larger.

- Amber Peluso

PHOTO FEATURED IN LAKE & HOME Nov/Dec 2020 PHOTOGRAPHER Kip Johnson

A small footprint Because the vanity hovers above the floor, it doesn’t just take up less visual space—it takes up less physical space, too. So a floating vanity is a great choice for tiny powder rooms, where every square inch matters.

The negative space where the bottom of a traditional vanity would be keeps the eye moving upward. This can draw the eye to the vanity itself or direct attention to intriguing design elements at or above eye level. It can also balance out a bottom-heavy bathroom, where thick trim or busy flooring would otherwise pull focus.

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Customizable height Unlike traditional vanities that are manufactured to a specific size, you can install a floating vanity at whatever height works best for your bathroom. This can provide much-needed flexibility in spaces with architectural features like low eaves, drop ceilings, or unusual cut-outs that can otherwise be a challenge to design around.

You can also install a floating vanity at the height that best suits the members of your household. A lower vanity makes sense for bathrooms off of kids’ rooms or playrooms. A lower vanity height also serves family members who use wheelchairs or walkers. And very tall homeowners will appreciate a higher vanity.

PHOTO FEATURED IN LAKE & HOME Jan/Feb 2022 PHOTOGRAPHER Kip Johnson

PHOTO FEATURED IN LAKE & HOME Jan/Feb 2022 PHOTOGRAPHER Nine 18

Easy to clean Most of us probably don’t love cleaning the bathroom, but a floating vanity can make the process a bit easier. Washing the floor is much simpler without a vanity base or legs to sweep or mop around.

The negative space underneath the vanity can have hidden benefits, too. Many households use this space as visible external storage for items they use every day, like slippers.

“Floating vanities also work well in children’s bathrooms if there is a linen closet for storage,” Wallace adds. “They are great for allowing easier cleaning of the floors as well a place to tuck a stool for the little ones.”

Floating vanities also work well in children’s bathrooms if there is a linen closet for storage.

- Jamie Wallace

Numerous customization options Once you decide that a floating vanity is the right fit for your bathroom, then it’s time to select the vanity itself. There are so many materials and finishes to choose from, so you’re bound to find an option that suits your aesthetic.

Floating vanities can work well in a wide range of interiors, including rustic and vintage-inspired spaces. The designers say this look really sings when the finish complements the crisp, contemporary lines of the vanity itself. “We have found floating vanities to be a more modern look,” says Wallace. “Because of this, painted cabinets work well, as do cleaner door styles, such as solid slabs.” “Natural walnut is a smooth chameleon and can take any space to the nines no matter the style,” adds Peluso.

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Pairs with a variety of sinks The striking look of a floating vanity can support many styles of sinks. Coordinate the sink material with the vanity for a calming, monochromatic look. Or, contrast the color or material for added emphasis. The level of drama and the desired effect is up to you.

Floating vanities don’t just support a variety of sink colors and materials. They work with several sink types, too. “Sinks for a floating vanity will vary based on style and function,” explains Wallace. “Undermount works well, sometimes with a thicker countertop to give more substance to the overall look. And vessel sinks are used for a more decorative look as you can get creative with the finish of a vessel sink.

Structural concerns One of the biggest drawbacks to this vanity style is that homeowners need to make sure that their bathroom walls can actually hold the vanity up. The weight of a floating vanity can pull away from drywall over time, so homeowners need to make sure there are adequate studs to hold vanity’s weight. Some vanities also require install more brackets or a sturdy frame for additional support.

Because of this concern, many homeowners are more comfortable contacting a contractor or structural engineer for guidance. These professions can install the unit or check to make sure it’s secure if homeowners opt to put in the floating vanity themselves.

More challenging to install Installing a floating vanity is more complex than putting in a traditional vanity. But the previously mentioned wall enforcement and mounting concerns are the most challenging variables with this vanity type.

Once those questions are answered, installation is more straightforward. Many homeowners can do it themselves, albeit with an extra pair of hands to assist with the heavy lifting.

“A DIYer could definitely install a floating vanity,” says Peluso. “It may even be easier than a floor vanity because you don’t have to worry about leveling with the floor—although you will probably need a helper.”

Limited weight capacity Since floating vanities are wall-mounted, there are limits to the weight they can safely support. Very heavy sinks, weighty stone countertops, or thick tiles might be a no-go.

Ditto for multiple sinks.

If you have a particularly heavy design element in mind, it’s best to check with a professional before installing a floating vanity.

They’ll be able to offer guidance and additional peace of mind.

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Less storage space Some floating vanities offer smart storage solutions. But the open, minimalistic look almost always means homeowners who opt for a floating vanity will almost assuredly have fewer drawers and cabinets at their disposal. So back up storage in the form of a linen closet, medicine cabinet, or freestanding shelves is a must if you’re putting in floating vanity into a much-used bathroom.

(A disciplined approach to reducing clutter and/or decanting bath products into pretty containers certainly helps, too.)

Not possible? Then put a floating vanity in a smaller, less used bathroom. “Floating vanities work well in half baths and powder rooms, where storage is not as much of a concern,” says Wallace.

Visible pipes Since floating vanities are wall-mounted, pipes underneath the sink are visible. That means your plumbing becomes an aesthetic choice as well as a practical concern.

This is less of an obstacle if you’re building a new home because you can simply select the sink and pipes together. (Plus, your contractor and builder will already be working with a plumber.) Installing a floating vanity is more of a challenge if you’re renovating an existing space.

“The con of a floating vanity would be in the application of a renovation,” explains Peluso. “The plumbing would have to be high enough in the wall to either be concealed completely or you would have to spend a little extra to get a good finish on the P-trap (the swirly pipe that goes from the wall to the base of the sink) instead of just your average PVC to make it look nice.”

Floating vanities also work well in children’s bathrooms if there is a linen closet for storage.

- Jamie Wallace Requires a full floor

Additional cost

Since floating vanities are mounted high above the floor, the entire bathroom floor will be visible. This means that your flooring needs to be in excellent shape, with no visible fading, scratching, chips or missing pieces.

The unexpected cost of a new floor can make price of your bathroom project go up, as can all the little added costs that installing a floating vanity can entail—paying a professional to check structural soundness of your walls, getting help with installation, hiring a plumber, purchasing new pipe pieces, adding additional shelving, and buying the right brackets can all add up.

Again, if you’re building a new house, this won’t be an issue, but if you’ve removed a traditional vanity, you might be dismayed to see that the bathroom floor didn’t extend under the previously installed vanity, leaving big gap in the flooring material when you pulled the previously installed vanity out. If this is the case, an entirely new floor is required.

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However, if a floating vanity is the right choice for your room, it’s all worth it. You’ll enjoy a clean, minimalistic look that will endure for years to come. L&H

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KITCHEN & BATH

magine waking up in the morning and walking into your bathroom to find a light, bright place, with an aesthetic that makes you feel invigorated. It almost sounds too perfect to be true, but improving the look and feel of the bathroom makes a big difference when getting ready to start your day.

Easy Updates For Updating Your Bathroom Sometimes you just need something to give you a quick win when updating your spaces that also breathes life into the room. It will make you feel like you’re walking into a different room and that feels refreshing. John Filippello, the Kitchen and Bathroom Designer from Fergus Home & Hardware, shared interesting tips and also some of the things he’s been seeing the most when updating bathrooms. “It’s very common to update the flooring with vinyl planking, give the walls a new paint job, pick out new hardware, and add a mirror that will give the room a fresher and brighter look as well as updated vanity tops. Some options include a cultured marble vanity top that will brighten the space or at least make it feel more modern by taking out older or yellowed ones.”

It’s very common to update the flooring with vinyl planking, give the walls a new paint job, pick out new hardware and a mirror that will give the room a fresher and brighter look as well as updated vanity tops.

John Filippello / Kitchen and Bathroom Designer, Fergus Home & Hardware

PHOTOS SUPPLIED BY: Devin Joubert

When making up your mind about what you want to update in your bathroom, there are a few things you’ll want to think about. How much will you use it? Are you selling the house or keeping it? “I removed a tub out of my house and put in a five-by-five walk-in shower. Years ago, that would’ve taken down that bathroom so it wouldn’t have been considered a full bath even though it’s more of a bathroom to me now. This fall, I broke my ankle. In dealing with that, I would have had a much more difficult time if it was still a tub.

Sure, I have to bag this cast up, but at least I can hobble in there and I also have a big bench. So it’s really thinking about what the future holds for you and your home,” Filippello said.

Another great thing about a fresh coat of paint is that you can cover up any of those unsightly stains or imperfections on the walls or ceilings, which makes the bathroom appear cleaner and more inviting.

Make sure you have adequate ventilation when painting to ensure proper air circulation so you don’t inhale any of the fumes.

Also, if you haven’t painted a room before, you’ll want to buy some painter’s tape to tape off the ceiling or door so you don’t get paint on areas that aren’t meant to have the new color. Also, pick up tarps to place on the floor neatly; it’s worth this extra step to protect flooring and fixtures. Taking these precautions ensures a successful and less frustrating bathroom refresh.

Give the Walls a New Layer of Paint Painting the walls brings a breath of fresh air to any room you decide to update and the great thing about it being your bathroom?

Bathrooms are usually smaller, so it won’t take as long to paint.

It can be difficult when trying to decide what color is the right color, but once you’ve picked a few you can test the colors out by taping the paint sample cards to the wall of the bathroom, so you can see how it looks under your specific lighting. Let it sit there for a few days to see which you like best. Another idea is to get a small bit of each color and paint it onto the wall to test it in splotches.

Once you’ve found the right color, you can create a calming, dramatic, or energizing atmosphere.

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New Wood Floors (That Aren’t Wood) There’s nothing quite as nice as walking into a room with new flooring. Vinyl plank flooring is also pretty easy to install, which makes it a cost-effective choice for DIY projects. There are so many different colors and designs out there that you can choose from,depending on the aesthetic you desire.

Artwork If you’re feeling creative, this is something you could do on your own with your medium of choice. If you aren’t into creating your own art, but you know an artist or photographer ,check in with them. You could possibly hire them to get pictures of the nature around your cabin or of the animals on your farm. They might be able to help you come up with something unique to decorate your walls with. It’s great to support small businesses, plus you end up with a unique piece of art that no one else in the world has.

Then again, there’s nothing wrong with finding artwork in stores as well. Hobby Lobby, Home Goods, and Fergus Home & Hardware are a few picks. “I’d also say don’t overlook your artwork in the bathroom. For example, if you have a theme going in your house, find art that coordinates well. My one bathroom is all neutrals with white and taupe and all the artwork is black and white drawings,” said Jeanene Hoppe, Designer and Window Treatment Specialist from Fergus Home & Hardware.

PHOTO SUPPLIED BY: Devin Joubert

Try a New Mirror

ASHLEY FURNITURE MIRRORS photos supplied by Fergus Home & Hardware

Do you have one of those mirrors in your bathroom that came with the house when you bought it? There are much more stylish options! Pull that one down and refresh your space with an on-trend or traditional mirror that is framed. This is not only more design-focused, it also serves as a unique piece of art to decorate your wall, as opposed to the frameless, basic mirror that comes standard in a build.

If you have a theme going in your house, find art that coordinates well. My one bathroom is all neutrals with white and taupe and the artwork is black and white drawings.

Jeanene Hoppe / Designer and Window Treatment Specialist, Fergus Home & Hardware

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Update Your Bathroom Rugs & Textiles One way to make your bathroom feel new and more like a spa is by picking out some new rugs and towels. Pay attention to the textures that you want to bring in. When done right, textures can make for an aesthetically pleasing space. When done wrong, it can feel like too much is going on in that space.

Also, don’t be afraid to buy some more expensive towels, because they are usually better quality and are more likely to last longer. “Think of towels as a good investment.

The best way to do this is to buy a few different brands and try them out. See how they wash and feel,” said Hoppe.

If you’d like to cut back on plastic and reduce toxins, consider opting for natural and sustainable materials such as organic cotton or bamboo for your towels and bath mats.

These materials are not only eco-friendly but also free from harmful chemicals commonly found in synthetic textiles. (Note: Check out our Fun Finds column this issue for a Turkish towel option that comes in four colors and has a beautiful waffle weave texture.)

Think of towels as a good investment.

The best way to do this is to buy a few different brands and try them out. See how they wash and feel.

MOEN Matte black bathroom faucet photo supplied by Fergus Home & Hardware

MOEN Brushed nickle bathroom faucet photo supplied by Fergus Home & Hardware

HOMEWERKS Brushed nickel bathroom faucet photo supplied by Fergus Home & Hardware

Jeanene Hoppe / Designer and Window Treatment Specialist, Fergus Home & Hardware

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New Lighting & Fixtures Updating the lighting and fixtures in a bathroom can work wonders in transforming its ambiance and giving it a fresh, modern look. Those old brass and fake chrome fixtures really date a place. By changing those, you can quickly freshen up a space. Also, you might want to change out your fixtures in your shower, tub, and sink as these can show soap scum that is nearly impossible to remove after a certain amount of time and usage.

Consider choosing fixtures in finishes like: • Brushed nickel • Matte black Delightful DIYs Anyone Can Do • Paint your vanity cabinet and doors.

• Add some floating shelves!

• Refresh your backsplash - with real tile or high quality adhesive options Keep An Aesthetically Pleasing Bathroom • Keep organizational bins in your drawers and find a place for everything to reduce clutter • Hang some eucalyptus in your shower or opt for golden pothos or a snake plant • Update your toilet lids; you can choose from many options on the market

The Bigger Updates I’ve shown you some small things you can do to change up your bathroom, but of course there are a few bigger projects that take a little more time, effort, and money.

“As for a bigger update, you could take out a tub or shower and replace it with a tile shower. Solid surface type showers are very popular. They are the same material as the cultured marble countertops, but are a little thinner. We put them in, in three pieces, to cover the three or four walls. We can add so many adjustments, like corner shelves. You could do this as one color or a few that coordinate well with your bathroom. We can incorporate shower benches and shower doors with these as well,” said Filippello.

When updating your bathroom or any room in your house, it’s sometimes hard to know where to stop. It’s easy to get carried away and want to tear everything apart and update everything at the same time. “One thing leads to another,” Filippello said, “But, another thing people might like with our long winters is heated flooring in the bathroom. They can be put on timers, thermostats, or even attached to our phones. I have a customer who shows up to their cabin in the winter, and as soon as they hit the Fargo airport they turn the heat on.”

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As for a bigger update, you could take out a tub or shower and replace it with a tile shower.

John Filippello /

Kitchen and Bathroom Designer, Fergus Home & Hardware

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Retrofitting Your Bathroom for Aging In Place Maybe you have a parent or grandparent who will be moving in with you and you want to make sure the space is safe and easy to use. Or, perhaps you just want to update your bathroom for aging in place so it’s ready for when you need it.

“If you’re 60 or older, maybe you are thinking you don’t want to step up and over a tub anymore. Plus, having a hand shower is nice, too. I don’t want to give up my rain head shower faucet, but if I see any discoloration I can use the hand shower to spray everything down and then I can scrub it. It makes cleaning easier. My mother uses hers to water her plants in her shower,” said Filippello.

Another great retrofitting investment is updating your toilet to an ADA compliant toilet which makes it easier to sit down and stand up from the toilet seat. “Updating the toilet is a good idea as we age or especially if you have knee or hip issues. You don’t realize it until you need it. So if making a change in your bathroom, this is one to have on the list,” said Hoppe.

Now that you have a handful of new ways to refresh your bathroom as well as a few easy wins and delightful DIYs, you may see that the possibilities are endless. The art of sprucing up your bathroom is a journey of creativity and self-expression. Your dream bathroom is just a few steps away! L&H 38 Lake & Home Magazine November / December 2023

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KITCHEN & BATH

W

hen it’s time to give your bathroom a fresh look, start with a new sink. There are so many styles and materials to choose from, and the selection process is almost as compelling as seeing the final product.

Do be mindful that not every sink works in every space. Homeowners need to consider who will use the sink, the amount of traffic the room receives, ease of cleaning, the existing bathroom features, and more. Read on to learn the pros and cons of each sink style and to see which sink style the design experts are excited about this season.

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Molded top or integrated sinks Photo featured in

LAKE & HOME Jan/Feb 2021

Photo featured in

LAKE & HOME Mar/Apr 2023

Undermount sinks “Vanity sinks vary greatly based on client preferences,” explains Jamie Wallace, designer and owner of Calla Lily Designs in Fergus Falls. “Oftentimes in main bathrooms, undermount sinks that are easier to keep clean are the first choice.”

This sink style is simple to clean because undermount sinks attach to the countertop from below, so no part of the sink sticks up above the flat plane of the countertop. Instead the basin of the sink is sunken, for a clean, minimalistic look. As an added bonus, undermount sinks are quite affordable.

They’re also easy to find in stores and there are many materials to choose from.

But, installing a undermount sink can be a challenge for novice DIYers. Another common sink style also prizes the seamless look of solid countertop.

“The two most common types of bathroom sinks we see today are porcelain (sinks) undermounted to quartz or granite, and cultured marble molded tops where the sink and (counter)top are one piece,” says John Filippello, who is a Kitchen and Bath Designer and Project Manager at Fergus Home & Hardware. An integrated or molded top sink combines the sink basin and the countertop in one smooth and continuous piece. They’re very sleek, widely available and easy for homeowners to install themselves.

As Filippello mentioned, cultured marble is a very popular material for this sink style.

Customers can choose from a broad range of materials, including quartz and granite.

Advancements in manufacturing mean that a sink can be created for almost any space.

The easy clean aspect is another benefit of integrated sinks. Like undermount sinks, they can stand up to heavy use. “Integrated and undermount sinks are usually desired for busy bathrooms accommodating many ages because they are so easy to clean and custom in size,” explains Amber Peluso, Designer at Center of Design in Audubon.

Photo featured in

LAKE & HOME Sep/Oct 2023

Vessel sinks Unlike the previous sunken sink styles, a vessel sink sits high on top of the counter.

This sink’s shape is meant to be noticed.

The look is visually striking and sometimes downright sculptural.

Skilled homeowners can install a vessel sink themselves. However, it’s important to note that it can be difficult to retrofit a countertop with a hole that previously held an undermount or drop-in sink, no matter your skill level. And the height of a vessel sink can make it hard for kids and individuals in wheelchairs to reach. On the plus side, there’s a vessel sink for every budget.

Designers say that the plethora of choices attract homeowners who want a statement piece in their bathroom.

Photo featured in

LAKE & HOME Mar/ Apr 2022

Since there are so many options to choose from, the biggest challenge can be narrowing it down. Filippello recommends considering a few key elements to choose the best vessel sink. “Overall aesthetic, color and texture, and faucet mounting technique are all things to think about when choosing a vanity bowl,” he explains. “Glass and stone vessel sinks have many unique shapes and colors that can add flare and texture. I think that porcelain vessel bowls have a classic, clean look.”

Drop-in sinks Drop-in sinks are installed into the bathroom countertop from above. (You drop them into a hole in the countertop, just as the name implies.) A rim overlaps the countertop to hold the sink in place from above. They’re also supported from below with unseen hardware.

Photo featured in

LAKE & HOME Mar/Apr 2023

This style of sink is very affordable and easy for most homeowners to install. There are many styles of drop-in sinks available.

Choosing this sink style is an easy way to add interest even a basic bathroom. Drop-in sinks also appeal to homeowners who can’t choose a vessel sink because of their existing countertop.

“Drop in or vessel sinks can be a fun design element if you’re wanting something different and take a design to the next level,” says Peluso. “It’s easy to picture how average a vanity can look without that pop of a different material or color making the statement.”

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Pedestal sinks A pedestal sink is technically mounted to the wall. But it appears to be freestanding because it’s supported by a decorative stand, or pedestal, hides the plumbing from view.

Because pedestals recall classic design elements, this sink style adds to touch of tradition (and strong, lengthening vertical lines) to any bathroom. Since a pedestal sink doesn’t include a vanity or countertop, it takes up very little space. However, there’s also no storage available. This often limits pedestal sinks to secondary or guest bathrooms and powder rooms. It can be a challenge to install a pedestal sink. And if you’re ripping out a vanity to put in a pedestal sink, you’ll need to make sure the flooring under the vanity is intact, since much more of it will be visible with this new sink. Everyone except the most expert DIYers will want to call a professional for a consultation.

Because pedestal sinks can be hard to install, and because the pedestal itself requires more material, this type of sink can be more expensive than other styles. To offset the cost, some households will opt for a less expensive pedestal sink. Thankfully, there are pedestal sinks for sale at a variety of price points.

Wall-mounted sinks A wall-mounted sink also stands alone, without a countertop or vanity. As the name implies, it’s mounted to the wall bracket. But unlike a pedestal sink, the pipes are visible below the sink basin.

Photo featured in

LAKE & HOME May/June 2022

If you’re imagining the sink in your elementary school, you’re right on track. This is an example of the most common wall-mounted sink: a gleaming white porcelain number with an industrial or minimalistic vibe. Along with this style, there are other options available.

Most home improvement stores stock a few wall-mounted sinks, although specialty plumbing shops and bath showrooms will offer a much wider range of choices. A wall-mounted sink is easy to install. Prices vary.

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The sink’s minimalistic style makes a statement. Since the lack of storage can be a challenge, they’re typically used in guest bathrooms, just like pedestal sinks.

“Pedestal and wall mounted sinks do best in powder baths where there isn’t a whole lot going on,” explains Peluso. But she adds that their lack of storage can be an asset in certain situations.

“They could also be a great incentive to minimize countertop clutter,” she continues.

“Say, in a teen’s bathroom where the only option is to put toiletries away when you’re done using them, therefore, keeping the space always tidy.”

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Trough sinks A trough sink includes at least two faucets to enable multiple users at the same time, even in a relatively small space. This style is typically a narrow rectangle shape (like the barnyard implement that gives the sink its name) although it may have rounded edges. This makes a trough sink a natural fit in dwellings with a farmhouse aesthetic. They look at home in contemporary interiors as well.

The trough really describes the shape of the sink and the multiple faucets, rather than the sink type itself. Customers can choose from undermount, drop-in, wall-mount, integrated, and vessel trough sinks.

Trough sinks are space savers when compared with a traditional double sink, although they still require a larger room and vanity. They are ideal for large families and bathrooms near gathering spaces, because several people can wash their hands at the same time.

If you’re considering a trough sink, make sure the vanity is tall enough. This sink style also requires higher faucets.

Photo featured in

LAKE & HOME Jan/Feb 2021

PHOTOGRAPHER Tem Photography

46 Lake & Home Magazine November / December 2023

Photo featured in

LAKE & HOME Nov/Dec 2021

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Decorative finishes Once you’ve narrowed down your sink type, you’re ready to select the sink material.

There are so many options to choose from.

Enamel and porcelain are time-tested workhorses that have a classic look and long-lasting appeal. They’re also simple to source, easy to clean, and largely stain resistant.

Choose quartz, granite, or marble for a classic and elegant look. Natural stone is heat-resistant, stain-resistant and durable, but it does require sealing. It can also be heavy and more expensive than other sink materials.

Glass is a stunning choice for a showpiece sink. It can read as dynamic or delicate. It’s also resistant to stains and surprisingly easy to clean. But as you’d expect, it’s vulnerable to chips and damage during installation and everyday use.

In contrast, stainless steel and concrete both appear sturdy and industrial, bold and modern. Stainless steel is simple to clean and maintain. It’s light, durable and relatively inexpensive.

Concrete is heavier and requires sealing. Installation will require a professional for most homeowners.

Photo featured in

LAKE & HOME Jul/Aug 2023

A huge range of natural stone, decorative metal, and wood sinks appeal to homeowners as well. They all require sealing and the use of specific cleaning products to maintain their look. But the results are well worth it, say local design experts.

“Decorative options such as stone or copper work well at the lake or in a more rustic setting, especially in powder rooms where the main task is simply hand washing, as you aren’t as concerned about toothpaste or other hygiene products hurting those decorative finishes,” says Wallace.

“I have recently seen some solid stone and cast bronze sinks that had some real unique character,” adds Filippello. “Some stone had fossils showing in the bottom of the bowls while the cast bronze had a beautiful patina.”

No matter which option you choose, your perfect bathroom sink is out there and it can make a world of difference in your bathroom’s overall appeal. L&H

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RECIPES

n i k p m Pu Mini

SERVINGS ................

12

................

s e i P T

hese are simple to make and are a hit! Using ingredient s that are purchased rather than made from scratch will cut down prep and cooking time tremendously, however, homemade ingredient s can be swapped in if time allows or as desired.

............................................................................... ...............................................................................

INGREDIENTS

...............................................................................

1 roll

packaged sugar cookie dough (Cut the roll in half then score each of the halves in half. From here, cut each

THE METHOD

...............................................................................

G rease a 1 2-ser ving cupcake pan. Heat oven to 350 °. In each section of pan, carefully pl ace one section of sugar cookie dough by pl acing it evenly over opening then gently pressing it into the cup area. Press into the sides of the cup.

section into three to end with 12 individual pieces.)

1 can

pumpkin pie filling (Note: Make sure that you’re using pie filling, not 100% pumpkin.)

1 pkg

Whipped cream for topping

a Lake

HOME

indulgence

photo and recipe by Stephanie Disse

50 Lake & Home Magazine November / December 2023

Bake sugar cookie dough in cupcake pan for 7 minutes, remove from oven, and make an indent in the bottom of the dough using a small /shot gl ass or f ingers . Using an ice cream scoop, dish pumpkin pie f ill ing evenly into the cups, approximately ¾ full . Pl ace pies in oven and bake for 5-7 minutes, until the f ill ing is set .

Remove from oven and cool for 10 minutes in pan before removing each pie and setting it on a wire rack to cool fully.

Top each pie with a dollop of whipped cream before ser ving.

Pies can be kept in refrigerator for up to f ive days or wrapped in pl astic and stored in an air tight container in freezer. Thaw in fridge for 2+ hours before ser ving. L&H

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INTERIOR DESIGN

t

ake your kitchen and bath up a notch with fun finds from Periwinkle in Otter Tail, MN and Nature’s Embrace Soap Co., Detroit Lakes. Simple additions or swaps to your rooms can make a huge difference in looking on-trend and improving the overall experience in these spaces.

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n i g n i t s Ho Style

Your guests will love this fun breakfast bar set! The unique, yet simple, bagel/donut holder is a perfect way to serve these items outside of a basket or tray, and the ceramic pieces are the perfect size for condiments.

for assorted linens, breads, pastries, fruits and vegetables, and so much more! Cake stands add depth and dimension to buffets and make beautiful cakes stand out. Use them also to display décor on a holiday table.

Mudpie Breakfast Bar Set, including 2 ceramic trays, 2 bowls, and bagel/donut holder ($58.95). Table runner in ivory ($74.95).

From Periwinkle.

Table runner ($74.95), fall mugs ($16.95 each), Mudpie charcuterie set ($36.95), scallop marble cake stand ($56.95), Two’s Company woven basket ($36.95). From Periwinkle.

Add to your serving game with quality table items, including unique mugs and a charcuterie set! The basket featured is perfect 54 Lake & Home Magazine November / December 2023

g n i v i g s k n a Th e p a c s e l b a T

Add to your Thanksgiving table with warm touches in colors of autumn. Texture, natural and rustic elements, and interesting pieces like these glasses will enhance your existing display and provide beauty and function.

Wall accent ($56), wood beaded bowl ($49.95), mini plates with Thanksgiving motifs ($7.50 each), 4x4” glassware with fall leaves ($15.95 each), Acacia cutting board ($26.95). All from Periwinkle.

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RIGHT: A good bowl that’s large enough for fruit, mixing, serving of various items, or that’s used for gifting is a fabulous buy!

This hammered copper plated bowl makes a gorgeous gift holder for fun food items, including some that are locally made by Otter’s Best! Add textured kitchen towels and a freshly-scented candle and you have a perfect present for a hostess or wrap this up for a Christmas gift that’s sure to make an impression.

ABOVE: TAG Aloha candle ($20.95), Otter’s Best Mean Jean Hot Sauce ($4.25), Sweet Winter Pickles ($8.95), square ceramic canisters with airtight wooden lids ($19.95 each), Green Chili Cornbread Mix by Finch & Fennel ($13.95), Stonewall Kitchen Street Corn Salsa (8.95), waffle weave kitchen towels ($6.95 each), round metal bowl ($22.95), cutting board with handle ($39.95), crocheted potholders ($8.95 each). From Periwinkle.

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s a m t s i r Ch lates P

Whether on display or used for food, Christmas plates are a great way to add to your holiday items. The large square plate featuring a poinsettia motif is a classic and the plate looks beautiful on a stand or on the table. Mini plates are a fun way to liven up the appetizer table and are the perfect size for tapas or dessert bites.

Large square poinsettia plate ($23.95), assorted mini/appetizer bites plates ($4.9510.95 each). From Periwinkle.

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c i t s u R écor D

Following the ongoing trend of neutrals and rustic touches to be added throughout the home, these scented candles poured into hollowed logs are a beautiful way to create ambiance and add a pleasant, inviting aroma in the home. Add beaded accent décor and textured, neutral trees that are a rustic contemporary design and you have a simple display that adds tremendous style.

Porchview Home candles, available in various scents ($32.95), bead décor ($18.95), knitted cable trees ($36.95, $44.95). At Periwinkle.

58 Lake & Home Magazine November / December 2023

Photo by Heidi Renney Owner of Nature’s Embrace Soap Co. Located in Detroit Lakes, MN

& , l e w o Soap, T rush B g n i v a h S

Goat’s milk bar soap and related items from Nature’s Embrace Soap Company in Detroit Lakes make perfect gifts as well as everyday bath essentials. Handmade and curated in the company’s local shop by soap maker Heidi Renney, these are offered in a wide array of scents and blends.

The shave soaps, made with bentonite clay, provide the perfect glide for your razor. In addition to soap, the shop offers sustainably conscious bath and body products, including the Aegean Roots Waffle Towel, a Turkish towel

60 Lake & Home Magazine November / December 2023

that is high absorbency and quick drying.

Available in four colors (charcoal, terra cotta (shown), mustard, and ivory) ($47.95 each).

Soaps ($8.95 each), ceramic shave puck bowl ($14.95), shave brush ($29.95). All from Nature’s Embrace Soap Company. L&H

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RECIPES

SERVINGS ................

S

tew is a staple of winter mealtime, especially on exceptionally cold, snow y days! It’s a comfor t food and one that is easy to make; it al so is easily multiplied to feed a crowd and tastes great with fresh, rustic breads. This stew recipe was inspired by Italian seasonings and blended with traditional beef stew ingredient s to make a tasty, unique dish that will add warmth and flavor to even the coldest day. This makes a great freezer meal, so double or triple the recipe; you’ll have delicious stew available with a quick thaw and reheat.

n a i ItalInspsired

4

................

w e t S f e Be indulgence a Lake

HOME

................................................................

INGREDIENTS

................................................................

2 T olive oil 4 T cornstarch 4 T cold water 2

pounds beef chuck roast, cubed

1

pound golden (baby) potatoes, quartered

2 C carrots, chopped 2 C celery, chopped 1

onion, chopped

4

cloves garlic, minced

1 tsp dried rosemary 1 tsp dried thyme 2 T tomato paste 28 oz can crushed tomatoes 32 oz beef broth 1 C red wine Garnish: Fresh Parmesan cheese Fresh parsley, roughly chopped

62 Lake & Home Magazine November / December 2023

photo and recipe by Stephanie Disse

...............................................................................

THE METHOD

...............................................................................

Heat 1 T olive oil in sauté pan. While pan is heating, mix the corn starch and water together in a liquid measuring cup briskly with a whisk or fork. Add salt and pepper to the cubed beef then sauté on medium high until browned and cooked through slightly. Remove from pan and set aside. Add 1 T olive oil to sauté pan, heat on medium high and then add the onion, carrots, celery, garlic, salt, and pepper. Add the rosemary and thyme. Cook until semi-soft, 5-10 minutes. Stir in the tomato paste, tomatoes, and beef broth. Add the cubed beef to the pan.

Add the wine and red wine vinegar to the pan and bring the mixture to a boil to deglaze. (This will also cook the alcohol off and only flavor will remain.) Add bay leaf and Worcestershire sauce; gently fold into mixture.

Add potatoes. (Tip: To ensure that the potatoes cook fully, prick each potato with a fork, set in a bowl, and cover with a damp paper towel. Place in microwave and cook for 3 minutes.) Slowly stir in the cornstarch and water mixture to thicken the stew. Simmer 2-3 hours. To serve, remove bay leaf then ladle stew into bowls. Garnish with grated fresh Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley. L&H

November / December 2023

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LIVING

I

n today’s chaotic world, it’s essential to prioritize self-care and peace. With the never-ending to-do list and the hustle and bustle of daily life, it’s important to make your home the ultimate relaxation zone so that you can wind down and relax.

Ever since the pandemic, integrating saunas, hot tubs, and fitness areas into our homes has been a huge self-care trend. Fitness and health took center stage for many and now, post-pandemic, homeowners nationwide are upping their home’s options with unique spaces and equipment to serve their needs and goals.

With a home gym, say goodbye to hefty memberships that go unused because you don’t want to go out into the cold or deal with the traffic. Having fitness options in the home immediately gets rid of any excuses since your own gym, sauna, pool, or hot tub are right there, ready to go at any time and in a private dwelling.

The Sauna Oasis: A Retreat Within Reach Imagine stepping into a serene cocoon of warmth, where the outside world fades away, and your body and mind are enveloped in a cozy embrace. This is the magic of owning an at-home sauna. Saunas have been celebrated for their therapeutic benefits for centuries, and now, they’re finding a place right in the heart of our homes. From traditional saunas to modern infrared versions, these compact retreats offer a myriad of health benefits. The Finns are typically credited for their everyday use of saunas; it’s a cultural phenomena that spread worldwide and the practice of taking a cold dip in the sea followed by sweating in a sauna has proven myriad health benefits. People are catching on to the practice (even if the sea is not accessible); here in Minnesota, a “snow bath” may be more common, with a sauna session to follow.

The benefits of having regular sauna sessions are endless, but a few are that the sauna can help detoxify the body, reduce stiffness, improve your cardiovascular health, boost your circulation, and even enhance your skin complexion. But above all that, it gives you a profound sense of calm and tranquility. With an at-home sauna just a few steps away, the opportunity for self-care becomes a daily ritual, not an occasional treat. “I had some traumatic injuries (breaking my pelvis, arms, ribs) so I got out of the fish-house industry and shifted gears to saunas in the health and wellness sector,” said Owner of Voyageurs Saunas in Shakopee, MN, Eric Bongard.

When it comes to picking the spot where you want to place your sauna, you have a few choices: an unused closet, your bathroom, or your backyard, but if you have none of these, you can even put one on a trailer.

Yes, amazingly enough there are also portable saunas, so now you can bring it with you wherever you go. If your home’s design allows, saunas can be installed in a fitness or indoor pool area, providing yet another option for health and wellness practices.

The heat source is one of the most important things you want to make sure you have sorted. “Choose a higher-end electric one or one with a wood-fire stove. Either of those will give you a great sauna experience. There’s no clinical data on infrared. There are some health benefits with them, but we work with traditional wood fire and electric saunas as our areas of service and expertise,” said Bongard.

Choose a higherend electric one or one with a wood-fire stove. Either of those will give you a great sauna experience Eric Bongard Owner of Voyageurs Saunas

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Hot Tubs: Soothe and Rejuvenate on Your Terms Another soothing favorite is having a hot tub or pool. The warm water offers a multitude of physical and mental benefits such as alleviating muscle tension, easing joint pain, and improving overall flexibility. The gentle hydrotherapy jets massage away stress and rejuvenate the body, all in the comfort of your dedicated spa area.

“For me, I use my hot tub for my bad back.

It’s nice for arthritis. Plus, they are 100% approved by The Arthritis Foundation. You can actually write them off if you’re still itemizing.

Your doctor will write a prescription for them.

I’d have a tough time functioning and going to work in the morning without it,” said Bill Ranum, General Manager of Dakota Pools & Spas.

For me, I use my hot tub for my bad back. It’s nice for arthritis.

Plus, they are 100% approved

by The Arthritis Foundation.

Bill Ranum General Manager of Dakota Pools & Spas.

Ranum also spoke about how the in-ground pools are not as popular in our area, because of the seasonal changes and upkeep.

Instead, an option that’s been more popular is the above-ground pools. “You can do a round or rectangular pool. They are made by a company called Kona and are built to last with Kevlar lining. They are very durable.

We tell people these will last the rest of your life. We have had customers who have lived somewhere for 15-20 years and they take theirs down and move it to their new house.

Some people put a deck on one side. We just had someone in West Fargo that did one and put a deck all the way around it,” said Ranum.

When it comes to maintenance and upkeep, it’s easy. Ranum uses his hot tub for 15-20 minutes a day and when done, he gives it a teaspoon of chlorine. “After I drop in the chlorine, I just test it once or twice a week.

Swimming pools are similar, so you just put some tablets in a floater and then let it float around. So simple. We also test water here, so people bring us their water all the time.”

There’s a hybrid that isn’t spoken about as much as the pools and hot tubs, that’s worth taking note of—swim spas. Why not have the best of both worlds, right? Unlike normal spas, which primarily focus on hydrotherapy and relaxation, swim spas incorporate a built-in current that allows users to swim in place. This continuous current creates a resistance similar to swimming against a strong river current. This makes them ideal for people who love lap swimming and other aquatic workouts. Swim spas also can maintain a comfortable temperature for extended periods which is great for both leisure soaks and workouts, whereas traditional hot tubs are typically hotter and better suited for relaxation.

Fitness Rooms (or Garages) at Home: A Personalized Approach to Wellness After the last few years, people have been focusing on at-home fitness and prioritizing their health by building home gyms, or even fancier gyms in their garages. When it comes to building your at-home gym, it’s kind of a “choose your own adventure” concept that includes the workout equipment that you like using when you work out.

Here are a few recommendations for equipment you might like to add to your home gym, depending on what kind of physical activity you enjoy:

If you love Yoga or Pilates: Think about adding a mirror to your home gym - This can also help you improve your form with lifting weights. Theragun - This is great for working out the sore spots in your muscles. You can customize your massage by connecting to Bluetooth and change the speed and pressure on it and It also comes with five different interchangeable heads.

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Cardio Lover: Bowflex T10 Treadmill (folding) - Having a treadmill can be difficult because it takes up a lot of space and if you don’t have your dream gym yet and are short on space, having one that folds is convenient since you are able to store it vertically and can lift the deck which makes it much easier to maintain and clean.

You can also get personalized coaching as well as streaming to all your favorite shows from Hulu, Netflix, Prime Video, HBO Max, and Disney+.NordicTrack RW700 Rower (folding) - Similar to the treadmill above, this rower folds as well making it easy to store.

Plus, it has a 10” HD touchscreen.

Love to Lift: SMRTFT Nuobell 80lb adjustable Dumbbell Set - It’s a bonus that you don’t have to have a bunch of free weights sitting around.

This really cleans up your gym space and keeps it minimalist, which is easier on the eyes keeping visual clutter at bay. This set

is convenient with it being an all-in-one 5-80 lb. adjustable dumbbell. Marcy Smith Machine Cage System with Pull Up Bar This piece of weight lifting equipment will transform your home into a gym–literally— with the cable pulley system, the different attachments, and the workout bench that’s included. (Which adjusts from 27-degrees to 76-degrees.) It’s really the ultimate machine since it also features cable crossovers and a rowing cable so you can do a seated row.

You can get any of these online, from your favorite sports store, or SCHEELS. When it comes to maintenance and repair, SCHEELS has in-house technicians who are trained with the specific equipment.

The convenience of having exercise equipment, a sauna, hot tub, or even a pool at your fingertips empowers you to prioritize your health without compromising your daily commitments. Integrating these into your home is a powerful trend that allows us to embrace a balanced lifestyle, enhancing our physical and mental well-being by elevating the overall quality of our lives. L&H

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EXTERIORS

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If you live in Minnesota, you’re familiar with ice, but are you familiar with ice dams?

Ice dams may not sound very intimidating, but if they form, they can cause significant damage to your roof.

ICE DAMS ARE OFTEN TIMES CAUSED BY A FEW THINGS: •

Lack of attic insulation, allowing heat loss from the home/building

•

Heavy snow loads accumulated on roof

•

Bathroom vents blowing heat out under the roof snow

•

Sky lights causing heat loss

•

Plugged or non-functioning gutters

•

Incandescent can lighting in vaulted ceilings

•

Improper or plugged roof vents

Ice dams can be very difficult to see when they’re beneath a heavy blanket of snow.

People often think they’re only near the gutters/eves of the roof, which typically are visible from the ground. In our 16 years of steaming ice dams, we’ve witnessed hundreds of ice dams much higher up a roofline that were not visible from the ground. Ice dams higher up a roof can be created where

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photos provided by Clean 'N Seal

you’ve left off with snow raking, near a bathroom or roof vent, in a valley where the wind has piled snow deeply or simply just an under-insulated area of the roof.

HOW BAD CAN ICE DAMS DAMAGE A HOME OR BUILDING? Our technicians have seen almost everything… from a small dripping leak to entire electrical systems shorted out in homes.

One of the worst situations we’ve been a part of was in Boston, Massachusetts where significant water intrusion into a home caused the entire kitchen and living room ceiling to collapse!

IF YOU SEE ANY OF THE FOLLOWING, YOU MAY HAVE ICE DAM ISSUES. (Call your trusted professional immediately.)

• Water stains/discolorations in sheetrock •

Wet spots in floors, around electrical outlets, lights and windows

•

Icicles hanging from soffits

•

Ice build up on eves or gutters

WHO DO I HIRE TO REMOVE ICE DAMS: There are many qualified ice dam steaming contractors out there but it seems there are even more who are unqualified. Utilizing the wrong equipment or inexperienced technicians can create even further costly repairs that you already have ahead of you. If there’s a trigger assembly on the wand they’re using to ‘steam’ your roof, you’ll likely need shingle

76 Lake & Home Magazine November / December 2023

replacement due to damage from too high of water pressure. A proper machine for low pressure steaming will not have a trigger assembly but the wand will look similar to a pressure washing wand. Ice dam steamers use low pressure and low GPM (gallon per minute of water) to generate steam that is safe for your roof, as long as the operator is experienced. Someone with experience will know how to properly size up the ice dams to ensure the falling blocks of ice won’t damage things below.

Most ice dams that have an active roof leak will have a pool of water behind it. We always steam cut a drainage channel in the lowest part of the ice dam and work to the puddle.

This is done to allow the standing water to drain off the roof before any ice is melted, which will create additional water on the roof and likely enhance the roof leak.

DOES HEAT CABLE PREVENT ICE DAMS FROM FORMING? My opinion on this as a professional ice dam contractor for nearly two decades is NO. Heat cable can help in some scenarios, but also worsen a situation. Heat cable helps with keeping gutters open, but we see many roofs where it has melted snow/ice in an area and created a larger build up of ice in a new location. Basically, if the heat cable is melting snow/ice, the water created from it needs to make it all the way off the roof.

This seldom happens because it’s usually refreezes rapidly. The best thing you can do is to keep snow from significant accumulation on your roof, make sure bathroom fans are only run when needed and have an energy audit performed to confirm your home is properly insulated and venting as it should.

L&H

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FEATURE LAKE

ACRES

1850.17

Directions to access: 5.6 mi S of Detroit Lakes on Hwy 59, then .1 mi W on Cutover to Co Rd 17, then .1 mi N to E shore.

MAX DEPTH

Facilities:

1 ramp (concrete slab) 1 parking lot (asphalt) no vehicle parking spaces 20 vehicle/trailer parking spaces no accessible parking spaces

1 dock 1 restroom

Source: Minnesota Department of Natural Resources & Wikipedia

37 FEET SHORE LENGTH

7.01 MILES CLARITY

12.7 FEET Fish Species in WALKER Lake Black bullhead, black crappie, bluegill, brown bullhead, green sunfish, hybrid sunfish, largemouth bass, northern pike, pumpkinseed, rock bass, smallmouth bass, tullibee (cisco), walleye, yellow bullhead, yellow perch, bowfin (dogfish), white sucker, banded killifish, blackchin shiner, blacknose shiner, bluntnose minnow, brook stickleback, golden shiner, Iowa darter, Johnny darter, logperch, mimic shiner, spottail shiner, tadpole madtom

November / December 2023

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FEATURE HOME

H

igh atop a lakeshore bluff near Bemidji sits a majestic Mediterranean-style home. With three turrets, a stucco finish, stone accents, and a modern roofline, this unique home was designed and built for Ashley and Luke Lundin and their two children.

My husband and I are both from northern Minnesota, and our family loves to spend time on the water, both for fishing and playing.

Ashley Lundin | Homeowner

82 Lake & Home Magazine November / December 2023

“My husband and I are both from northern Minnesota, and our family loves to spend time on the water, both for fishing and playing,” says Ashley. “A lake home has always been a dream of ours, so we were very excited a few years ago when we found a great opportunity to purchase this land, and build here on Lake Andrusia. We fell in love with the location, the lake views, and the neighborhood.”

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THE DESIGNER As this family began their search for someone to design and build their dream home, they talked with some friends who had recently finished building their own dream build.

“Their new house was beautiful and unique,” says Ashley. “We loved it, and they highly recommended Kevin Yeager, of Yeager Designs in Brainerd. We reached out to him, set up a meeting, and knew right away that we wanted him to help us with our project.”

It was also important to them that Yeager Designs had extensive experience working in other parts of the country, including Florida and Massachusetts.

“The Lundins came to me with a desire to build a home that was distinctive and different from anything else in this area,” says Kevin, who has been working in residential design, almost exclusively waterfront properties, since he opened his firm in 1992. “Ashley mentioned that she liked Mediterranean style, which is not that common here, and then we took that and put a little more of a modern spin to it.”

The homeowners also requested sweeping rooflines, low maintenance, and an open concept space for entertaining – a place where guests would feel welcome and comfortable while enjoying the beautiful lake views. Ashley recalls that throughout the entire building process, Kevin was experienced, competent, artistic, and organized.“That carried over into the interior design, which he also handled. He would make selections for us to consider, and then we would work together as a team to create the final process. Although we decided to change a few things about the cabinetry and the countertops, we used nearly all of his initial recommendations. He made us feel at ease about all our choices, and it was a very smooth and fun process.”

Terry Hanson of W. Gohman was thorough, detailoriented, and THE BUILDER did a great job of With assistance from Kevin, they interviewed several custom home builders in Minnesota. communicating The scope and design elements of this project made it imperative for them to choose a that could deliver the kind of quality with us every step builder service and project development it required. selected W. Gohman Construction, a along the way. They family-run business since 1950, which has ofAshley Lundin | Homeowner

fices in St. Joseph and Nisswa. “Terry Hanson, of W. Gohman, was our general contractor,” says Ashley. “He was thorough, detail-oriented, and did a great job of communicating with us every step along the way.”

84 Lake & Home Magazine November / December 2023

The Lundins came to me with a desire to build a home that was distinctive and different from anything else in this area.

Kevin Yeager | Yeager Designs

AN UNEXPECTED D E L AY The Lundins, Yeager Designs, and W. Gohman Construction were all set to begin construction in the Spring of 2020. Then the pandemic hit and everything hit a standstill.

“With all that uncertainty, they decided to pause the project,” Terry explains. “It was almost 12 months later before we began again. Many elements of the process, including ‘Bemidji winters,’ along with pricing, had to be reconfigured. There were also some delays with materials and shipments, but we worked through it all and were able to move ahead.”

The property that the Lundins had purchased was newly developed, and the two combined lots sit somewhat high above the lake. Kevin Yaeger’s original site plan left enough outdoor space for a lakeside patio, before it steps down gradually and then drops off more significantly to another stairway down to the dock.

“The final placement of this home maximizes all the available surface area,” says Terry. “We set the floor elevation with the surrounding area, which means they wouldn’t need to have any steps at the front door or lakeside. The view of the lake is amazing.”

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EXTERIOR The three round turrets provide the home’s exterior with a dramatic and aesthetic appeal. Although there are a number of theories as far as the origin of these castle-like round towers, built into the wall of a house, they can be traced back to both military and decorative uses for hundreds of years.

Besides their appearance in Mediterranean-style homes, they have also been prevalent in Victorian and Queen Anne-style architecture in the past.

“As we began building, it was an uncommon challenge for us to figure out how to frame the turrets,” says Terry. “Wayne Evje, at Northern Impressions in Bemidji, did a great job, especially with their cone-shaped roofs. He framed each one on the ground, and then hoisted them up into place. It was quite the project.”

Windows add light, openness, and enhanced views to any lake home. The the curved windows in these turrets also add to the distinctive design elements of the Lundin home. “One amazing thing about the windows, which I noticed during construction, is that the master bedroom orientation and window layout allows you to see both the sunrise and the sunset,” he says. “That’s something I really have never seen before from the same room.”

For the home’s siding, they chose a low-maintenance, synthetic stucco in an offwhite color, from Dryvit Systems, Inc., along with dark shingles for the modern roofline.

The use of extensive wood and stone accents further accentuates the architectural design.

“Austin, of Lakes Area Masonry, did a wonderful job on all of the stone work throughout our home,” says Ashley. “He was a talented craftsman, and we were fortunate to work with a number of other different craftsmen during that time. It was truly inspiring to observe the skills and talents possessed by each of them.”

INTERIOR Spiral staircases, like the turrets, have been around for ages, dating back to Greek or medieval times. They can present a romantic appeal and become the focal point of any residential or industrial space. In this instance, the spiral staircase is built within one of the three turrets, and Kevin calls it a “huge part of the visual presentation of this house.” With a curved, cantilevered structure, and no interior wall support, this custom staircase was a huge undertaking. They worked with Arcways Inc., a company out of Neenah, Wisconsin, and this project involved hundreds of hours and an entire team of designers and installers to complete. “These staircases aren’t as common in Minnesota as they are on the East Coast,” says Kevin. “We templated it, built the pieces, and then Terry’s crew installed it.”

The Lundins have been very happy with how it all turned out. “It’s so unique, and we look forward to watching our kids descend down that staircase over the years,” she says, “for special events, like prom, or maybe even looking ahead at a wedding some day in the future!”

Spaces have been created within the other two turrets that create a cozy feeling when spending time “inside” the circular areas.

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Luke and I really appreciate all the built-in special elements that Kevin designed to make our home unique.

Ashley Lundin | Homeowner

One of them has a conversational seating space with a comfortable table and chairs.

The other one has a built-in, curved wooden bench and a half-circle table that encompasses the shape of the turret. Ashley says they call it a “built-in breakfast nook” that has become a favorite eating area for the couple’s twins, along with all their cousins.

The expansive kitchen, which features two islands, is highlighted with black walnut cabinetry from Epsky Woodworking in Royalton. That same black walnut can be found throughout the home, including the staircase.

The countertops are all Cambria Quartz, and the homeowners chose different designs for some of the separate surfaces, all from Quartz Surfaces by Cambria, LLC, in Plymouth, Minnesota.

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Contemporary light fixtures, from the Light Depot in Baxter, enhance the bright and open feeling of this mixture of Mediterranean and modern styling.

On the main floor, the beauty of wood was combined with the durability of tile for their flooring. Working with MCI Carpet One in Waite Park, they chose a wood-look porcelain tile made by Ceramic Tile Works. “Although we love this flooring, it turned out to be one of the main delays we experienced following our Covid pause,” Ashley recalls.

“It was delivered six weeks late due to the cargo ship having to wait to dock, and then a backlog of containers had to be unloaded before it could be transported to Bemidji.

Some of our appliances were also delayed in delivery, but it all worked out in the end.”

Two fireplaces highlight the main floor living areas, with beamed ceilings and massive windows for lake viewing. There’s even an interior “pass-through” window from the kitchen into one of the casual living areas.

“Luke and I really appreciate all the builtin special elements that Kevin designed to make our home unique,” says Ashley. “Besides the curved staircase and round turrets, we love the ceiling beams, wood columns, and built-in art niches to display photos of our family and friends.”

The primary bedroom suite is located on the main floor, which has a full bath that provides a relaxing, spa-like feeling. Floor-toceiling tile, an oversized soaking tub, a walkthrough shower with custom glass doors, and a built-in archway all contribute to that atmosphere.

The carpeting that covers the circular stairs leading to the second story is from Huderlik Design Studio in Brainerd, along with all the bedroom carpeting. Four other bedrooms are located upstairs, with a game room in the center, facing the lake. It opens onto an outdoor deck that stretches between two of the turrets, providing not only an additional design element, but also an amazing view.

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FA M I LY Since the time Luke and Ashley moved away from the Bemidji area for college and graduate school, they had always planned to return back home someday.

“Our families are a priority for us,” says Ashley. “It was always our goal to live somewhere near them. Building this house, with the beautiful lake views, has helped us achieve that goal. This first year has been absolutely fantastic, and we wouldn’t change a thing.”

For Kevin Yeager, working with the Lundins was an extraordinary experience.

“They built a beautiful house, and I’m very proud of all that we’ve done,” he adds. “From the very beginning, we had lengthy discussions about their vision, and they have been steadfast in that vision the entire way. It’s not your typical Minnesota home, and Luke and Ashley never chased any trends. They were simply unwilling to compromise on their dream and what they wanted.

This house has rewarded them.” L&H

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CouLDn’t have done it without: W. Gohman Construction Co. | GENERAL CONTRACTOR • View our ad on page 83

Kevin A. Yeager | DESIGNER Northern Impressions | CARPENTRY, TRUSSES Lakes Area Masonry | STONE MASONRY Huderlik Design Studio | CARPET • View our ad on page 93

MCI Carpet One | TILE • View our ad on page 87

Epsky Woodworking | CABINETRY Quartz Surfaces by Cambria, LLC | COUNTERTOPS Andy Michalek Logging & Excavating | EXCAVATION, UTILITIES Flat-Crete, Inc. | CONCRETE, FOUNDATION Stellar Drywall and Paint | DRYWALL The Light Depot | LIGHTING Geo’s Paint and Finish | PAINTING Expert Insulation | INSULATION Trimmers Inc. | FINISH CARPENTRY Arcways Artisan Stairways | STAIRS, RAILINGS Brainerd Hardwoods | DOORS • View our ad on page 91

North Country Overhead Door | OVERHEAD DOORS Lakeside Fireplace and Stove | FIREPLACE • View our ad on page 89

Capital Granite | FIREPLACE TILE Kelly’s Plumbing | PLUMBING Crosslake Sheet Metal | HVAC • View our ad on page 93

Bessler Wibolt Electric | ELECTRICAL Minnesota Screens | ALUMINUM SCREEN SYSTEMS First City Caulking | CAULKING Maria’s Cleaning Service | FINAL CLEANING Mattson Lumber | LUMBER • View our ad on page 89

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FEATURE HOME

A

home that holds the hearts of many... that is what this staple of a home, residing on North Shore Drive of Big Detroit lake has been for the community of Detroit Lakes since 1908.

cial events, and enjoyed many other wonderful times in the magnificent home. It was even a place for respite, housing 29 servicemen during World War II, giving them a place to sleep on cots in the attic.

The property originally served as home to an elaborate three-story summer home, with a big grainery barn next to the lake. The mansion, a landmark in Detroit Lakes, attracted many admirers to the magnificent structure.

It was home to the Allen family, where they held family reunions, gatherings, parties, so-

In 1968, the sole owner, Josephine Allen, being unable to fully take on the upkeep and maintenance, due to the size of the home and extensive repairs it needed, made the decision to tear down the ever-admired landmark in the community. In a quote she had given to the local newspaper, the Detroit

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Lakes Tribune, she stated, “It is so important we stop this sort of thing. This house should have been preserved for future generations.

I feel as if I have lost a personal friend.”

The barn became the place on the property where many events were hosted by the Allens. Dances, plays, and art exhibits were held for the many friends and members of the community, for all to enjoy for many years to come.

The property was sold to Lynn and Beverly Hummel in the 1990’s. At this point, the grainery barn had been moved further back on the property, and had been converted into a home. The Hummels remodeled during their time on the property and continued to live there until 2017 when it was sold to a couple from the Detroit Lakes community.

The couple, who had admired the house for years, told Lynn if they ever decided to sell, to let them know. The Hummels, knowing this couple and the deep admiration they had for their home, knew they would be handing it and its rich history over to people they trusted to love and care for it as much as they did.

In 2021, the process of updating the home began once again. Needing more than a new roof, the decision to do a complete remodel was made.

The large project took an entire year to complete.

The homeowners were adamant about keeping the structural integrity intact, wanting to honor not only the story of the property and its few inhabitants, but also the history it has held for the community of Detroit Lakes and those who know and have experienced the property’s uniqueness.

“We are extremely involved in our projects, and really take ownership as well, so it is important that we are on the same page as far as expectations and vision.”

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Tami Soyring | StraightLine Design

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The homeowners, wanting to give their business locally, hired builder and contractor, Briard Construction, BHH Partners Planners Architecture, and Eric and Tami Soyring, owners of StraightLine Design, a husband and wife design team out of Detroit Lakes.

Tami, an interior designer, and Eric, an architectural metal design and fabricator, along with their adult son, Gabe, who works with them full-time, focusing on architectural drafting and design and renderings for both facets of their business, as well as being an integral part of the architectural metal installation process.

When it comes to the interior design process, StraightLine Design is a one of a kind boutique firm. The company prefers to take on a project or two at a time, helping their clients see it through from beginning to end, and giving their clients their full focus. “We are extremely involved in our projects, and really take ownership as well, so it is important that we are on the same page as far as expectations and vision,” says Tami.

Upon walking into the barn home for the first time, it was totally gutted. Tami could instantly see the immense potential of how amazing it could be. “We thought it seemed like a fun challenge. The clients were amazing; so easy-going, kind, and they really trusted us, which made it even more fun!"

“The irony of all this is that Tami had literally said weeks before that she would love to do a barn house project sometime. No joke.

This isn’t typically her style at all, so it took me aback. But I saw her come to life when she saw the project. At that point, I knew if the homeowners cut her loose, and they did, that it would turn out awesome,” said Eric.

It was extremely important to the homeowners to preserve the historical significance of the home. It would have certainly been cheaper to level the place and start over.

It took a ton of extra work, but one of the homeowners’ main objectives was to preserve the shape, structure, and significance of the home, but in an updated, modern way.

Knowing this, the Soyrings' goal was to marry the history with the modern. When going through inspiration pics and selections, the homeowners fell in love with the exterior stone option, which sparked the inspiration on the exterior. “We then added the modern vibe by adding the darker siding with an overall monochromatic scheme that really allowed that stone to pop,” says Tami. From there a couple dormers were added to balance things out. “We had some fun changing up the siding schemes, went with some glass garage doors, and added a really cool new modern cupola and cable wire railings that Eric built.”

In the kitchen were added some fluting/ reeding details to add that vintage vibe to the rift sawn white oak cabinets. The countertops and kitchen backsplash are Cambria which is a highly durable quartz product.

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“We thought it seemed like a fun challenge.

The clients were amazing; so easy-going, kind, and they really trusted us, which made it even more fun! ”

Tami Soyring | StraightLine Design

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The oversized pendants add drama to the space, but the clear glass still keeps the space feeling nice and open. The tall ceilings make it feel like you are in a big city loft. “I love the hidden butler’s pantry that we were able to incorporate into the kitchen,” says Tami. With the extra space in the powder room that wasn’t really needed, the extra storage place was created. Continuing the tradition of the original property owners, the window bench was left and has added drawers for additional storage, along with placing the wine fridge/bar area close to the dining and outdoor space for easy access when entertaining friends and family.

In the sunroom, a slate Cle tile was used in a modernist mosaic pattern. A durable tile for traffic coming in from the lake that is easy to clean up as there would be sand, water, and dirt accompanying people straight out of the lake on their way to the bathroom or from après lake activities. The vents were made to blend into the floor pattern, straying away from the traditional metal inserts, these vents are not only hidden, but functional for cleaning purposes. “We went with an indoor/ outdoor rug in conjunction with the durable yet beautiful furniture.” The bathroom being a new addition, a shower was added for guests staying on the lower level.

In the original design, there was a wall blocking part of the beautiful view of the lake from the main entrance at the front of the house. A decision was made to go to the drawing board and figure out how they could move and tweak stuff without losing too much storage in the kitchen, but allowing you to see straight through as you entered the home. Tami went with a contemporary chandelier by

Italian designer Domenico Rinaldi, to dress up the area and add some drama to the foyer and staircase area, along with a custom herringbone inset in the entry floor to define the space. In the mudroom, floor to ceiling black rift sawn white oak mudroom lockers with brass mesh detailing on the drawers were installed for storage. This space also includes the dropzone space. By the stairs, an entry table with a couple little ottomans for additional seating when hosting were added.

The dining room was kept simple, with a small hint of drama using smaller scale Twilight velvet vintage chairs and a modern table. An incredible black soapstone fireplace adorns the furthest wall, centered in the living room to be admired from any view on the main level. The movement and organic nature of this specific material adds an element of pop and sophistication to not only the living space, but throughout the area. The slab starts from the floor going all the way up to the ceiling, making it an instant showstopper.

“When we saw the slab we fell in love!” says Tami.

The living room contains two different seating spaces. On the left side, a Chesterfield sectional and chair made for family time to cozy up by the fireplace, watching a show or reading a good book. On the right side, a swivel seating area for entertaining and conversation. The art in the living room and throughout the house, are all original pieces hand picked by the homeowners.

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The open industrial staircase in the foyer is something that the homeowners really wanted. “When we originally came in it wasn’t an option to do this open staircase, as there was a storage room under the original staircase. With some brainstorming we were able to add a structural beam, remove the storage and re-figure the direction of steps to add this gorgeous custom floating staircase that Eric designed, built, and installed.”

The reading and piano room is a space that was something personal for the homeowners. They love to read, and wanted a chaise to snuggle up in for reading a good book.

During COVID times, they received a piano from the former owners, the Hummels, and decided to re-learn how to play, so it was important for them to incorporate the piano into the space. To make this work, the area was redesigned, the homeowners had the piano painted black and the decision to design a custom shelving system around the piano was made. “We went with a more industrial, New York style loft look, filling the shelves with books, pictures, personal items, and art. We were very pleased with how it turned out.” The shelving design being another custom, original, and one of a kind piece made by Eric.

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In the master bedroom, a full custom closet was made in conjunction with Darcy at JCS Cabinetry that included many built-in cabinets, hanging spaces, and spots for shoes.

“We took full advantage of the angled ceilings and the smaller space,” says Tami. Right outside the closet, a full mirror with pendants sits as a last look mirror before leaving the suite. In the master bathroom, a steam shower was added for those cold winter days, and a soaking tub is placed right in

front of an oversized window overlooking the lake for them to enjoy a soak while drinking a glass of wine, or enjoying a good book while admiring the ever changing views with each season.

For the homeowners' young child, a unique space of their own was created. “We wanted a space that their daughter would be able to use now, but also a space that will be able to be grown into,” says Tami, “A cool hangout space for her and her friends; a space to play legos, a place to draw, create, or just chill watching a good movie with friends and family.” In her room hangs a swing that is the

perfect spot to curl up and read a good book and let the imagination of a good daydream take hold. They went with a gorgeous Phillip Jeffries paper on the walls to add another layer of texture and color, while selecting bedroom furniture that will grow with her throughout the years.

The colors throughout the house stay consistent, bringing in the blues, blacks, and neutrals. Boasting a more organic vibe mixed with the modern whites. Since the style of the home is kind of vintage/modern, incorporating unique sets of wall paper worked perfectly to help evoke the mood of each space where it was used. Calming in the master bedroom; soft with hints of pastels in the daughter’s room; beachy in the lower level bathroom; and fun and luxurious in the powder room as you walk in from the garage.

Eric, though having a lot of building experience himself, worked very closely with Briard Construction and BHH Partners Planners Architecture. “It was our first time working

I “ t was our first time working with Briard Construction and we have nothing but rave reviews about the relationship, process, and their workmanship from beginning to end.”

Eric Soyring | StraightLine Design November / December 2023

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with Briard Construction and we have nothing but rave reviews about the relationship, process, and their workmanship from beginning to end,” says Eric. “BHH was the architect on the job, and even though we didn’t work directly with them on this project, they really did a nice job on the initial layout and changes that were necessary, as they always do.”

“We are idea people, so we dream up ideas and see what sticks. Sometimes that means we have to work as a team to get very creative. And sometimes that means we have to pivot. There are always situations where we challenge the builder (or subs), and that also means they challenge us right back, and that is what makes a great team,” states Eric.

Eric and Tami also worked extremely close-

ly with the homeowners and were at the job most every day. Not only to check in and see how things were going, but also because they were excited to see its daily evolution as it all started to come together. “Communication was so critical. The homeowners really trusted us and our vision, which made the job even more fun to do!” said Tami.

Functionality is key when designing. How the home is utilized; what spaces are used most; what are specifics the clients would like in the home. “When we started working with the clients and the builder, there were plans that were designed by BHH. When we walked through with the clients there were some must haves that they didn’t have, but wanted. I think that the walk through and hearing how the homeowners really live in their home is so important,” says Tami. That is when Eric and Tami, along with the homeowners started looking at the plans and realized the necessity for not only a full bath-

room for post lake use, but also a more private porch space with sleeping accommodations for family and friends who enjoy visiting.

“They previously had a non-traditional seating area in the kitchen before and they told us that it actually ended up being something they used all the time. So we designed a similar, but new and improved feature in the new kitchen.”

Every project Eric and Tami work on is completely different as far as style goes, but this style was especially fun, as it was a challenge to mesh the old with the new. “The homeowners were so trusting and totally open to just having fun with it, so we did!,” says Tami. Enjoying the styling, staging, and decorating from start to finish is Tami’s personal favorite. “The homeowners pretty much started over with most of their furniture and accessories, etc, so it was such a blast at the end putting everything together and having them allow us to reveal it all to them in the end.” For Eric, it was how the homeowners had the vision and patience to really follow through all the way to the end.

“We just really want to make clear what an exciting project this was for us! It was so much fun from beginning to end. The homeowners were AMAZING to work with, were such great people, and it really was such an enjoyable experience. A process like this feels like a marathon sometimes, but they stuck it out and the home ended up being a project that we all are very proud of.”

Couldn't have 'done it without: Briard Construction | BUILDER • View our ad on page 97

bhh Partners | ARCHITECT StraightLine Design | INTERIOR DESIGN G-Foam Insulation | INSULATION Winter Masonry | MASONRY Hanson's Plumbing & Heating | HVAC, PLUMBING Painters Plus of Detroit Lakes | PAINTING, DRYWALL • View our ad on page 103

Ramsey Flooring | FLOORING B&H Electric | ELECTRIC • View our ad on page 101

Westlund Excavating | EXCAVATING Builders FirstSource | BUILDING MATERIALS TJ's Tile | TILE Rigels | APPLIANCES JCS Cabinets | CABINETS

The home that holds the hearts of many has been given an extremely well thought out and compassion filled update, holding true to the integrity that would make the few that have lived on the property proud. A strong and newly reinforced structure and loving story that will continue to have chapters added on to it by those who understand the meaning of honoring the past while embracing the ever changing evolution of life. L&H

• View our ad on page 101

Signature Home Tech | SECURITY DL Overhead Door | GARAGE DOOR Lakes Area Landscaping | LANDSCAPING All American Seamless Gutter | GUTTERS Hebron Brick | FIREPLACE DL Paint and Glass | SHOWER DOOR

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LAKE GIFTS

BEYOND THE MITRED CORNERS

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PERIWINKLE MARKETPLACE 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

409 W Stanton Ave | Fergus Falls, MN 218-998-4147 Tuesday - Friday Open 10am to 6pm and Saturday Open 9am to Noon 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!

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 23 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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CREATIVE TOUCH BOUTIQUE

THE MARKET OF BATTLE LAKE

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

122 Lake Ave S | Battle Lake, MN 56515 218-864-2555 | www.marketfergusfalls.com

NOW OPEN! Our new location is located at 504 Broadway Street in the beautiful downtown Alexandria!

CTB is a lifestyle boutique featuring trendy and classic styles for you and your home.

Follow us on:

Holiday Hours: (November / December) Saturday 10:00am - 4:00pm Stop by The Market of Battle Lake and pick up your Holiday items for family, friends, and home decor at the lake.

With a wide range of brands and styles, we truly do have something for everyone. Our women’s styles are size inclusive and we pride ourselves on cute, comfortable and affordable. With three times the retail space, our expanded home decor section is one you don’t want to miss! Follow us on Facebook and Instagram to shop the latest new arrivals, sales, events and all things happening at the new location! Shop online with us at www.creativetouchboutique.com or shop in store with us seven days a week!

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DOT & MINNIE’S AND LEVEL III dotandminnies.com | leveliiiboutique.com 148 1st Ave S | Perham, MN 56573 | 218-346-4180 Dot & Minnie's is a true boutique you'll find Joseph Ribkoff, Sympli, Luukaa, Kozan, Tulip, Bodil, Chalet, Fenini, Cut Loose, Liverpool, FDJ, and many other unique lines all in one store in downtown Perham.

Explore a wide range of classic styles and an unbelievable variety of jewelry.

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!

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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. is ready for holiday shopping!! Stop in 10-6 Monday-Saturday or come by for one of our fun holiday events for exclusive deals!

• November 3-4- Oh Deer! Shopping Weekend • November 17-18- Pink Friday Shopping Weekend • November 24-25- Black Friday and Small Business Saturday • December 6, 13, 20- Evening Christmas Shopping (6-7 PM)

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!

Be sure and check us out at our other locations!

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THE BRIC

MARCELLA ROSE

215 W Lincoln Ave | Fergus Falls, MN 218-998-2225 Open Mon thru Fri 10am - 6pm | Sat 10am - 4pm

“Radiate Compassion” (218) 290-4599 | Shop online: www.MarcellaRose.com 43005 US Hwy 59 | Pelican Rapids, MN 56572 Marcella Rose Studio & Gallery, North of Pelican Rapids Open by appointment, call 218-290-4599 Call to visit Marcella Rose Studio & Gallery to feel the essence of these original artworks on display and give them their forever home.

Marcella’s inspirational fine art encompasses original oil paintings, bronze sculptures, sculpted jewelry, and archival limited edition giclee’ prints.

The Sculptor. The Painter. The Passion

The Bric in downtown Fergus Falls, one of the top Otter Tail County’s Best Woman’s clothing store! We offer extra small3xl, 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

At The Bric, we offer a wide variety of gifts for men, women, and children, perfect for special occasions such as birthdays, showers, weddings, and anniversaries. Our store carries the latest decor trends, with unique and on-trend items available on both levels. We are constantly expanding our brand selection to enhance the shopping experience for our customers. We strive to cater to everyone’s preferences and interests. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram to stay connected.

Shop The Bric in downtown Fergus Falls.

Visit My Website: MarcellaRose.com November / December 2023

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