Subscribe at w w w.lakeandhomemagazine.com YEAR 21 | ISSUE 6 | NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2020
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Lake & Home Magazine NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2020
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YEAR 21 • ISSUE 6 • NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2020 subscribe online at: www.lakeandhomemagazine.com
CONTENTS
10 OFFICE
Meet Our Team
14 OFFICE
44
From the Office by Bekki Newbrough
FLOORING
The Magic of Carpet by Bekki Newbrough
66
EXTERIORS
Make Your Backyard an Oasis with an Outdoor Sauna by Jen Miller
16
INTERIOR DESIGN
Fresh Lighting Ideas to Brighten Up a Room
54
HOME DESIGN
Before You Begin
Opportunities and Options to Consider When Building or Renovating by Patrice Peterson
by Alicia Underlee Nelson
74
DESIGNER PORTFOLIO
32 EXTERIOR
How to Tile a Backsplash
When the Lights Go Out Power Up with Backup Generators by Alicia Underlee Nelson
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62
DO IT YOURSELF
Lake & Home Magazine NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2020
by Alicia Underlee Nelson
Northern Stone Granite & Quartz by Andrea Canning
128 SHOPPING
Service Directory
78
FEATURE HOME
An East Coast Inspired Cottage Cabin in Central Minnesota
130
by Jen Miller
104
FEATURE HOME
If You Love it, it Goes Together
SHOPPING
Lake Gifts
Unique in Minnesota - Gifts for the Lake Lover
136
The House on Lake O’Brien by Alicia Underlee Nelson
FEATURED LAKE
Lake Latoka
90
FEATURE HOME
A Total Transformation Remodeling for Retirement by Patrice Peterson
118
FEATURE HOME
Camp to Cabin A Historical Retreat
by Alicia Underlee Nelson
Cover photo Rick Hammer Photography courtesy Lands End Development Story on page 104
Douglas County
NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2020 www.lakeandhomemagazine.com
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Year 21, Issue 6 • NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2020 PUBLISHER - Kip Johnson EDITORS - Brent and Jennifer Rogness LAKE & HOME MAGAZINE – ADVERTISING SALES Jerry Shea • 218.205.7454 • jerry@lakeandhomemagazine.com Terri Jo Peery • 320.491.5618• terrijo@lakeandhomemagazine.com Becky Haarstad • 262.994.8744 • rebecca@lakeandhomemagazine.com Renee Redenius • 701.212.7227 • renee@lakeandhomemagazine.com SUBSCRIPTIONS In the U.S., one year $23.95; two years $42.50; three years $54.00. 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
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Custom Glass Solutions
Serving Detroit Lakes, Pelican Rapids, Perham, Ottertail, Battle Lake, Elbow Lake, Alexandria, Fergus Falls, New York Mills, Barnesville, Fargo/Moorhead and Surrounding Areas
210 S. Vine St. • Fergus Falls, MN • 218-736 - 6791 147 E Main St. • Perham, MN • 218-346 -7310
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FROM THE OFFICE
From the Office
We are in the season with some of our favorite holidays! With fall comes the mischief of Halloween, bringing the family together on Thanksgiving, and the wonderful joy during Christmas. It is this time of year that we start to focus more on time together, as family will come from all around to visit. A time with, for some, not just a little bit of decorating. It’s a time for good food, laughter, and cozy nights under a soft blanket.
The essence of time itself becomes real. Time is felt as a presence when the air grows cold, and the days grow short. Speeding by in the hot and busy summer days, time can start to meander through the winter as if hinting that we should follow suit. I once stood still on a snowshoeing trail, and held my breath as the world did the same. The silence was peaceful, deep. I could almost hear my heart beating while I watched the snowflakes drift towards the land. In that moment I felt completely at rest. Although I had just trudged almost three miles down a lumpy trail with only the sound of swishing pants and my heavy breath to guide me, I saw the beauty in that moment of silence. This is what winter means to me.
At this point in the year, I find myself focusing on my home. Inside, where the closets are in need of organizing, or the living room needs rearranging, and the lists start to grow. I have a suspicion this need for tasks comes from a sensation akin to cabin fever. True winter is getting started now, so I’m thinking of things that make me active. It’s long past time for me to work on that cabinet replacement, I have neglected my crafting projects, or the garage needs a good sweeping. There is so much I can still work on now that I’m inside, and yet I too feel the need to pause and take a breath. Here is my place of comfort, where I go to recharge. It’s time that I make it ready for a winter of reflection where I can start to plan next year’s garden.
the do-it-yourself community or the detailed planner, and a description for saunas in case you’re thinking of adding a warm-all-the-wayto-my-toes amenity.
A home is not just a house, it is so much more than that! Bring home things that will make you proud, and create a happy place all your own. If you are starting to plan for creating your very own happy place, or even considering a few updates, you are in the right place. This issue is heaping with helpful ideas for lighting options, backsplash installation for
Bekki Newbrough
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Meet designers Northern Stone, and learn what they represent. Afterwards, please take a lovely meander through the feature homes, to see four unique and beautiful designs inspired by equally unique homeowners and builders that made these dreams a reality. Each home is filled with interesting and eye catching themes that may just inspire you. It’s time for the holidays. It’s time for inside. It’s time for home. Whatever it may be that makes your winter wonderful. It’s time! ~L&H
Office Administrator
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INTERIOR DESIGN
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Updating your lighting is one of the fastest and most fun ways to update your home. Switching out just one fixture can make a room feel fresh with very little effort.
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There are two main types of lighting – task lighting and ambient lighting. Builders, contractors and designers combine these types to give homeowners the most functional and beautiful spaces possible. But if you’re remodeling and upgrading on your own, it’s smart to review the basics to learn what kind of light you need.
TASK LIGHTING Task lighting illuminates a specific area to help you see clearly while you’re working. You’ll need a bright light to help you focus on chopping veggies or getting a stain out of a white shirt. There are different types of task lighting. Some of the most common types are pendant lights and sconces. Pendant lights (which hang from the ceiling on a cord, rod or chain) come in a variety of shapes and material and can be grouped or hung alone. They usually project light downward through an open or translucent bottom. Sconces are mounted directly on the wall to illuminate both down and out. You might flick on a sconce to navigate a staircase landing at night or to apply lipstick in the bathroom mirror. Task lighting can sometimes generate a harsh spotlight effect. It can also create areas of shadow.
PHOTO BY HINKLEY INC. WWW.HINKLEY.COM
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AMBIENT LIGHTING To counteract these effects, designers add ambient light to illuminate an entire room or living zone. The light is softer and less focused, allowing it to fill in the gaps created by more functional, task-oriented light fixtures. Recessed lighting is the base of many lighting schemes. Lights are tucked up into the ceiling, where they create an even layer of light. They’re often attached to dimmers so homeowners can adjust their brightness as needed. Flush mount or ceiling fixtures are attached directly to the ceiling. They’re what many people think of when they think of an “overhead light” – the kind used to give a quick wash of brightness in a child’s bedroom or entryway. Chandeliers are on the opposite end of the spectrum. Part sculpture, part light installation, these are the stars of the lighting world, attention getters that throw interesting patterns of light and shadow in key gathering places (usually over a dining room table or soaring great room) for emphasis and drama. Homeowners and designers are playing with all of these elements to create intriguing lighting designs. Here’s a look at the lighting looks that are trending in the region.
PHOTO BY HINKLEY INC. WWW.HINKLEY.COM
TEXTURED GLASS PENDANTS A glass pendant is a classic. Rendering it in textured glass adds interest and character but keeps it quiet and unobtrusive, so the lighting never overshadows a clean and coordinated interior. There are lots of different textures to choose from. Bubble glass is eye-catching, while water and rain glass add a soothing, organic feel to the space. Any of these finishes work well in a neutral or contemporary interior. Antique glass can complement rustic or farmhouse styles. But tread carefully, since anything too ornate can look old-fashioned.
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WAREHOUSE METAL PENDANT Un-fussy and functional, this utilitarian pendant shape features a streamlined metal bowl. The actual warehouse lights that inspired the look may have a metal cage underneath to protect the bulb, a look that some styles steal. But most keep the bulb open to send a stream of light onto countertops and kitchen islands. This practical style works with many aesthetics. It’s an obvious choice for an industrial interior, but its sleek lines also work well in minimalistic and contemporary rooms. It also adds a little edge to rustic and farmhouse styles. It’s also a wildcard that works well in a layered lighting scheme. A handful of warehouse pendant lights are interesting enough to hold their own in a room with a vaulted ceiling, but not too dramatic that they distract from key architectural features.
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GLOSSY BLACK DOME PENDANTS Modern and sleek, classic dome pendants look fabulous in a rich, glossy black. You can install one to make a statement, but these pendants most commonly hang out in groups. They shine in a modern interior, providing a focal point for black and white rooms and neutral interiors without overshadowing the order of the space. It’s easy to echo the shiny black finish elsewhere in the home. Interestingly, a gleaming black pendant light also works well in eccentric, colorful or art-focused rooms. The sculptural look jives with other elements without pulling focus away from other more complicated or colorful installations.
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LANTERN WALL SCONCES Waking into a hallway or entryway lit by lantern sconces makes you feel like you’re entering a castle or moving backward through time. This is an understated but quietly dramatic lighting look that combines both practicality and a feeling of mystery. Lanterns are a very old form of lighting, so they work well in traditional or masculine rooms. They’re also associated with exciting, intriguing nighttime pursuits – think penning letters by lantern light or taking a midnight ride – so they add a definite spark of interest when installed indoors in a library, study or hallway. Interior lanterns resemble their exterior counterparts, which makes them feel right at home in rustic or Northwoods interiors which already blur the boundaries between outdoors and indoors. Their light also brings out the beauty of reclaimed or fine-grained wood.
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WAREHOUSE LAMP SCONCES These on-trend warehouse style lamps echo the same utilitarian shape as the popular pendant lights detailed earlier. But the wall mounted version includes a shepherd’s hook to take function to the next level. Pop one over a prep sink, in a sewing room, over a workbench or anywhere you need a little extra light. It’ll make a time-tested design statement even when not illuminated. Choose a fixture in oil rubbed bronze, copper or galvanized steel to maximize the mixed metal aesthetic that adds a little edge to the farmhouse look. The style is also a logical choice for industrial or transitional rooms that blend organic and manmade elements.
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ROUND CEILING MOUNTED LANTERN If you’re not quite ready to install a trio of lantern pendants in the kitchen or a wall of sconces in the entryway, start with just one. Installing a flush mount lantern fixture on the ceiling gives you a similar look with a little less drama. The most useful lantern fixtures are a little bit stylized for maximum versatility. Look for softer lines and more glass than the more traditional shape. One part may even be open to allow more light to escape. Since it’s available in a variety of metal finishes, this fixture works with any room. It’s interesting enough to be a conversation piece. But despite its ceiling location, it always seems down to earth.
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RECESSED LIGHTING IN UNEXPECTED PLACES Recessed lighting is a no-brainer in kitchen and great rooms. But it works wonders in more utilitarian spaces like pantries and laundry rooms, too. Since these spaces usually just have one overhead fixture, recessed lighting can add a more welcoming wash of ambient light. This is especially welcome in rooms that lack natural light. It looks especially fresh on a crisp, white or wood-paneled ceiling. The light sources look organic, blending in to create a smooth, soothing look.
FEATURED IN OUR JAN/FEB 2018 ISSUE
OPEN RECTANGLE CHANDELIER Sleek, exposed bulbs are having a moment. Showcase them in the minimalistic frame of an open rectangular chandelier. It combines contemporary lines and classic materials for a clean and neutral look that complements almost any room. The rectangle itself can be entirely glass or metal-edged. The most important thing is choosing a fixture with sleek lines that contrast with an interesting bulb shape.
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This light fixture blurs the lines between a row pendant light and a chandelier, so it’s useful in spaces where you might normally choose a series of pendants (like over a kitchen island) or rooms most commonly reserved for chandeliers (like a dining room). The horizontal shape makes it feel fresh.
TRACK LIGHTING CHANDELIER This fixture also combines the features of a chandelier and a row pendant light. Select it for similar versatility and flexibility but a more laid-back feeling. It melds elegant lines and functional features. Adjust the lights to illuminate different areas. This style works well in easygoing spaces with a contemporary feeling. Since the lights echo the lines of a desk lamp, it also feels accessible, down-to-earth and not too fussy.
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SPUTNIK CHANDELIER This modern interpretation of a classic Art Deco style has stayed stylish for decades. That’s because it looks great on its own and also plays well with others. Its smooth metal cylinders and starburst lights add a touch of femininity to midcentury modern furniture. It glitters like costume jewelry in a lush and glamorous room and adds funky, celestial energy to clean, minimalistic and contemporary rooms. This chandelier is a conversation piece, so give it ample room to shine. It works best surrounded by plenty of negative space. Even a smaller version can hold its own against a large room or a vaulted ceiling.
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ROUND CHANDELIER WITH EXPOSED BULBS Juxtaposing trendy exposed bulbs with a traditional round chandelier shape (a form bedecked by candles in many an ancient European manor house) brings a classic design into the future. By mixing eras and reference points with ease, it somehow feels completely contemporary. Go for a black or sleek metal finish in a modern room. Or try an antique bronze or copper to add warmth and character to both traditional and stark spaces. This chandelier’s size and shape give it surprising versatility. It has the visual weight to fill a great room. Yet the emphasis on negative space makes it suitable for smaller spaces like entry halls, studies and powder rooms.
FEATURED IN THIS ISSUE READ MORE ON PAGE 78
RECTANGLE CRYSTAL CHANDELIER The opulent crystal is rich and dramatic. But the rectangular shape adds a masculine edge to a very traditionally feminine material. And the long, lean, horizontal line reads as contemporary – and maybe even a little irreverent. For as striking as this light fixture is, it’s also surprisingly versatile. It’s a natural fit for a home decorated in the opulent Hollywood Regency style, where sparkle has always reigned supreme. But it also contrasts beautifully with more spartan contemporary rooms and organic materials like rustic wood tables. No matter which styles you pair it with, make sure that this chandelier is the centerpiece of the room. It’s designed to dazzle. ~L&H
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30 Lake & Home Magazine NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2020
$
1,187,000
14291 West Lake Sallie Dr, Detroit Lakes, MN | MLS# 20-30638 LUXURY & TRANQUILITY FUSE ON 200 FRONT FEET OF SUBLIME SOPHISTICATED LAKE LIVING This 5,426 sq ft architectural masterpiece presents with 3,181 finished sq ft, 3 bdrms, 3 baths, library, lakeside screen porch, designer kitchen with concealed appliances-proof that when convenience and class collide, harmony abounds. Appointed with the finest finishes; maple and walnut cabinets, honed granite/silestone counters, soaring ceilings, expansive glass for breathtaking views of the dancing sun on the pristine lake water of private Fox Lake. Work from home in the sanctuary of your own library, entertain within this open concept piece of art and at the end of the day, relax in the spa appointed master bath with private hot tub deck. Hard bottom swimming, whole house generator, dog wash in 3 stall attached garage, all enveloped on 1.2 acres of nicely wooded land with lush landscaping. Functioning necessities are cleverly hidden throughout home. Open-look-explore. UGSS, In-Floor Heat, GFA/AC.
$
498,000
$
1,595,000
$
479,000
419 North Shore Drive, Detroit Lakes, MN | MLS# 20-29329
2217 Edgewood Drive, Detroit Lakes MN | MLS# 20-30457
100FT OF SANDY LEVEL BEACH ON DETROIT LAKE Well constructed in THE LOCATION on North Shore Drive. Very deep lot 1/2 surrounded by quality steel fencing with heavy duty electric gate. Seven car detached garages with copper sofit and fascia. 4bedroom/4bath home with over 3,500 sq ft to call home.
BEAUTIFUL 5 BEDROOM, 3 BATH HOME IN PRESTIGIOUS TIMBER CREEK 4,896 Sq. Ft. with Open Floorplan Great for Entertaining. Large Master Suite with Full Bath and Walk in Closet. 2 Additional Bedrooms on the Main Floor and Main Floor Laundry. Lower Level Features a Large Family Room, 2 Additional Bedrooms, Exercise Room and Tons of Storage. Attached, Finished, and Heated 3 Car Garage. Private Lot with Pond on one Side and Woods Behind You. Maintenance Free Exterior, Mature Landscaping. Large Patio and Deck. Extra Storage Shed.
$
475,000
$
355,000
29454 Co Rd 112 Waubun, MN | MLS# 20-27349 84 ACRES WITH 946 FEET OF SHORELINE ON BEAUTIFUL WHITE EARTH LAKE Properties like this are getting tough to find! Hunt, fish and get away from it all on this property! Contract for deed Available. $
1,100,000
32065 Sunnybrook Dr, Vergas MN | MLS# 20-30945 SINGLE LEVEL LIVING 3 BED 2 BATH ON 1.91 ACRES WITH 280 FRONT FEET Property features two sunrooms with lake views. Eat in kitchen and dining room flows into living room. First sunroom is just off of the living room with doors that close for separation. Second sunroom is off of the attached 2 stall. Makes a great place to work from home or man cave for another idea. Detached 2+ stall for extras. Lake shore bottom is rocky. Enjoy water activities and hang out on the sand bar or a day of play. $
1,179,000
38034 Co Hwy 35, Dent MN | MLS# 20-29037 LEVEL SANDY SWIMMING ON DEAD LAKE IS THE SETTING FOR THIS RESORT Approx 800+/-ff allows for each cabin to have a direct view of the lake. Property has 10 cabins and 14 seasonal camp sites. There is a store front for goodies and a fish cleaning house for the catch of the day. Two stall garage for storage enhances the package. Take the plunge into lake life with this great opportunity. $
649,900
14346 Tradewinds Rd, Audubon MN | MLS# 20-31831 BIG CORMORANT NEWLY RENOVATED LAKE HOME FOR SALE! Enjoy a glass of wine overlooking the most beautiful sunsets around. This property is made for entertaining! Nearly every room was ripped down to the studs and completely redesigned. This property has high end touches throughout and is move in ready!
1334 Washington Ave #4, Detroit Lakes MN | MLS# 20-29293 PRIVATE CONDOMINIUM-PREMIUM LOCATION The views from this fourth-floor-one-of-a-kind-build are exceptional. Located atop the Fairfield Inn by Marriott, this classy condo features an open concept with 1 bedroom PLUS an office to double as guest quarters, 2 baths, in-unit w/d, electric fireplace, & storage locker by elevator. Additional amenities include: Private entrance/elevator, lake/ park view balcony, reserved parking spaces, pool, fitness center & ability for owners to do weekly VRBO. $
539,900
1804 East Shore Drive, Detroit Lakes, MN | MLS #20-32126 BIG DETROIT LAKE EXECUTIVE HOME 5 bed/4bath with 3,658 sq ft. This property is stunning inside and out. The sunsets are incredible, the location is ideal and the privacy is just a bonus. Take your boat/snow machine to at least 9 restaurants on the lake and enjoy all the year round activities the lakes area has to offer. Live here year round and leave the big city behind you. Detroit Lakes is a great community to live, work and play. Set up a showing today!
30680 Acorn Lake Rd, Frazee, MN | MLS# 20-29836 SPACIOUS 5 BED 3 BATH HOME ON ACORN LAKE WITH 150’ FRONTAGE Located on beautiful 2 acre level lot with mature trees and sandy beach area just 10 minutes from DL. Plus 2 bed, 2 bath apartment with lakeside patio on lower level for additional income. Many updates including exterior paint and roofing. Plenty of room for entertaining with large living room overlooking lake, formal dining including slider to lakeside huge deck, spacious kitchen, granite counters, and new stainless steel appliances. Plenty of storage space, 2 1/2 stall garage, quaint front porch, and huge back yard! Property meets all licensing for Air B&B and provides extra income if desired.
NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2020 www.lakeandhomemagazine.com 31
E EXTERIORS
WRITTEN BY ALICIA UNDERLEE NELSON PHOTO PROVIDED BY GENERAC
32 Lake & Home Magazine NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2020
It’s a nightmare scenario. The power flickers. It’s the coldest night in the longest, darkest stretch of the Minnesota winter. Or maybe it’s been strangely warm and the afternoon snow has turned to sleet that now coats the power lines with ice.
Either way, your breath catches as the lights blink off and on again. After a torturous wait – where you frantically search for the flashlight and the right batteries, dig those dusty candles out of the drawer, and wonder aloud what happened to the matches from last summer’s campfire – you’re plunged into darkness. The chill will creep in almost instantly. The contents of the fridge and freezer will stay cold a bit longer, if you’re lucky. Just cross your fingers that the pipes don’t freeze.
It’s never fun to be at home when the power fails. But it’s even worse when you’re not.
NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2020 www.lakeandhomemagazine.com 33
PHOTO PROVIDED BY GENERAC
If you’re at home, either at the cabin or at your primary
“Homes are getting more efficient, but they’re also add-
residence, at least you’re aware of what happened. You
ing more electronics,” says Jake Thomas, director of Glob-
can call your electric company and take steps to pre-
al Service Operations at Generac Power Systems, a Wis-
vent spoiled food, frozen pipes and flooded basements.
consin-based company that has been selling affordable
If you’ve planned ahead, you might even have a portable
standby and portable generators since 1959. “People are
generator to power the furnace, the water heater and lights
going to be using their home as a sanctuary and staying
in a few rooms while you and your family wait it out.
at home.”
But even if you’re at home while the power goes out, por-
That’s especially true during a pandemic, when a primary
table generators come with their own challenges. First, you
residence or lake cabin might serve as a home, a retreat,
have to roll them out of the garage or storage room in the
a workplace, an entertainment center or a virtual school
dark. Then you need to keep refilling them every couple of
classroom – or all of these things, all at once. These ev-
hours. And don’t forget to monitor your home for danger-
er-growing expectations will challenge a portable genera-
ous levels of carbon monoxide. Even after all that, there’s
tor. It has to not only power essentials like the water heater
no guarantee that your portable generator can power ev-
and furnace, but it also needs to keep the family engaged
ery device in your home as effectively as you’d like.
in work and school during a power outage.
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For most portable generators (especially the most affordable options many homeowners pick up in hardware stores) that’s simply not possible. They’ll keep the lights on and backup the bare essentials just fine. But they rarely support the whole house and the family gadgets too.
That’s because your electricity provider’s power quality must be less than 5 percent total harmonic distortion, a term that’s frequently abbreviated to THD or THDi. It’s common for cheaper and older portable generators to clock in around 15 percent THD. “If that’s the case,” says Thomas, “some of your more sensitive electronics will not work.”
That might be fine in the short term. But it could present a real challenge if the power goes out in the middle of the workday, during an important virtual school week or at the start of a much-anticipated winter getaway at the cabin. Since the pandemic is expected to continue through the winter and travel restrictions are projected to remain in effect, everyone’s homes and cabins will take on additional importance both as multi-functioning residences and restful retreats.
PHOTOS PROVIDED BY GENERAC
Homeowners concerned about their home’s performance when they’re in residence and those who want to protect their houses from damage while they’re away look for a more convenient and permanent solution – an automatic standby generator. Also called a backup generator, they provide additional ease and peace of mind.
36 Lake & Home Magazine NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2020
A unit like this is to spring into action whenever it’s needed. An automatic standby generator is installed outside of a business or home and resembles a central air conditioning unit. When a power outage is detected, the generator turns on automatically. Homeowners don’t have to do a thing. They don’t even have to be on the premises for it to work.
So why doesn’t everyone switch to a generator like this? Thomas says it’s largely because the financial outlay has changed significantly during his more than 20 years in the industry.
“For years, people thought a backup generator was a true luxury item and out of their price range and they didn’t do research on it,” he says. “How much it’s going to cost is going to depend on what kind of lifestyle you want to have.”
NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2020 www.lakeandhomemagazine.com 37
Homeowners can choose if they want backup power directed to
would need to bump up to a 8Kw unit. Thomas says one of Gener-
just a few essential circuits, like the lights, furnace, water heater,
ac’s most popular backup generators, a 22xW automatic transfer
sump pump and fridge and freezer. That option is more econom-
switch system costs $5,149 before installation – substantially less
ical than powering the entire house. But that’s changing too, as
than a generation ago.
the price gap between backing up certain zones and the entire dwelling gets smaller and smaller.
The manufacturers’ websites take the guesswork out of the equation by offering tools to help homeowners determine the size of
The price of the generator depends on the size you need. And the
generator they need. Working with a trained generator dealer can
size depends on the zones you want to power during an outage. A
make things even easier. Installation costs will vary due to the size
7kW unit can keep the kitchen, a bedroom and a bathroom pow-
of the generator chosen and the power supply required.
ered, while supporting the furnace and sump pump, for example. But in order to power the water heater or well pump, homeowners
PHOTOS PROVIDED BY GENERAC
Automatic standby generators are powered by natural gas, pro-
To power everything in an all-electric house, a homeowner will
pane or diesel. Natural gas is preferable, since it’s affordable,
probably need to purchase a bigger generator to power every-
clean-burning and readily available.
thing in an emergency situation. But historic cabins and smaller seasonal homes might be able to implement a limited circuit
An installer will check to see if the natural gas supply is sufficient
solution (which powers specific zones) or a managed house ap-
during the installation process. The price of the installation will vary
proach (which drops non-essential circuits and alternates power
according to the size and type of generator selected, the avail-
to others) as a workaround. Homeowners can use these solutions
able power sources and the size and set-up of the home. A simple
to help a smaller generator do more, since the home’s electrical
installation process can take as little as six hours. More complex
needs aren’t as extensive.
combinations will take more time. By using tandem breakers, which combine two circuits into one Setting up a backup generator in an all-electric house is a bit
slot in a breaker box, a more modest seasonal house could in-
more involved, in no small part because an electrician needs to
crease its number of available circuits to as many as 20. “And if
review every aspect of the home’s electrical system. That can be
we’re talking about grandma’s lake house, that might be more
a challenge in older homes and heirloom lake cabins, where no-
breakers than she even has,” says Thomas.
body’s given the electricity much thought for decades.
NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2020 www.lakeandhomemagazine.com 39
If this seems overwhelming, don’t worry. Once homeowners
“Our recommendation is maintenance is done every two
choose a generator, a qualified dealer handles all the details
years,” Thomas says. “Some people do it every year. A lot of the
that can seem confusing at first. For Generac customers, deal-
dealers offer that as a regular service.”
ers also handle all the permits required for installation. For customers who enjoy doing car maintenance and basic For cabin owners who winter in a different part of the state (or
small engine repair, it’ll be a fairly straightforward process. And
country), this is especially important. Requirements are site-spe-
generator companies make it easy for customers to do their
cific and dealers are able to access a network of professionals
own repairs, if that’s what they prefer. Generac sells mainte-
that would be difficult for someone outside the area to assemble.
nance kits right on the website.
“It varies by region,” explains Thomas. “Electrical permits and building permits are the most common. We want to make sure that the work is done with reputable people.”
After installation is complete, only routine maintenance is required to keep a generator poised to handle an outage emergency. A generator is an engine, after all, so spark plugs, oil and filters need to be changed.
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Other than these basic maintenance tasks and keeping the area around the generator clean and free of leaves and debris, no other upkeep is necessary. Like many modern automatic standby generators, most Generac models are equipped with WiFi, which enables homeowners to stay in the loop and remain aware of what’s going on in their home, even if they’re not in the area.
“It gives them a monthly summary of everything that’s going on,” Thomas explains. “There’s a very low-cost subscription version of that, that actually gives them real-time updates. For some of the remote areas where they don’t have Wi-Fi or internet, there’s actually a two-tier cellular network that they can use as well.”
Both the presence of a backup generator and these ongoing updates provide extra peace of mind for homeowners – whether they’re in the house when the power goes out or not. Our homes are serving multiple roles this winter. They’re our houses, our retreats, our sanctuaries– and maybe our workplaces and schools as well. If there’s ever a time to rethink how we protect them, it’s now. ~L&H 42 Lake & Home Magazine NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2020
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F FLOORING
Suddenly that feeling changes to uncertainty when you get an uneven, bumpy sensation as you enter. The floor is cold, or dark, and there is a strange texture to it. Walking into a room is something we do many times in a day. As we move through this world, our feet are the first things to touch the places around us, the first to notice and experience what may be there. Our environment will affect us in many ways. A floor can give a very important subconscious first impression, and a carpet can make magic happen. So, how do we choose?
Carpeting dates back to the late 1700s, and is still used widely today. It was designed to be a long thread of material fed into a backing that can be looped, cut, and twisted to provide such a differing array of looks and feel. Consider the length, fibers and feel of your carpet. Should it be low, medium or high? Are you particular on the type of fiber in that long looping thread? How do you want it to feel? There are many things to consider when choosing a carpet for your home such as length, texture and color. A low level of carpet like berber has easier maintenance, and avoids marks when in a high traffic area of your home. Perhaps a hallway where quiet passage late at night is wanted, so we don’t disturb the sleeping grandparents or the napping babies. Level looped carpets are close to the ground, and give a sturdy flat feel. A mid-length carpet threading is still fairly easy to maintain. Cut looped, plush,
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photos provided by Arnquist CarpetsPlus COLORTILE
T
hink of it: You are about to get a first look at your new home, and you are filled with a sense of excited anticipation.
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velvet or saxony are a few styles that allow more cushion while keeping a smoother visual appearance. Then, we have the frieze or shag of the longer strand styles. I am reminded of images from the 70s when I hear the words shag carpet. For many, this style can show affluence or a certain sense of prestige if done the right way. To lay on a clean shag carpet is more to lounge than a method to flatten your back. The kids will love it! A wild card option will be varied level carpeting. While a little more, expensive than uniform styles, this would be a conversation starter. It involves dedicated patterns of different twisting and looping effects that have a unique appearance. My dear friend has this in her home, and I have to admit the look appeals to me.
photos provided by Arnquist CarpetsPlus COLORTILE
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Now that we have thought about the length, let’s talk about material. There are options in both natural fibers and synthetic, but most natural fibers used in rugs are not strong enough to be used in wall-to-wall carpeting.
If you want to go natural, the best option out there will be a wool carpet. Keep in mind these beautiful floorscapes need special attention when cleaning, and will be less stain resistant than synthetic fibers. The overall upkeep of a natural fiber carpet will be higher in cost, but the benefits with being eco friendly and luxurious are just as high. The most common synthetic carpet material is nylon, which is crush resistant and has a wonderful fade quality. Polyester, polypropylene (olefin), and a new fiber called triexta, will be a few others to consider. Of these, all will be similar when it comes to a higher stain resistance and low maintenance. Polypropylene has the highest rating in wet and stain resistance and a lower rating in comfort and style. Polyester is by far the softest, and can be indistinguishable from wool to the naked eye.
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photo provided by Arnquist CarpetsPlus COLORTILE Triexta is considered a combination of natural and synthetic fibers being sourced from renewable corn fibers, and it has many of the fine qualities found in other synthetic fibers such as softness, and resistance to fading or wear and tear. When choosing a color, an important thing to remember is time. Will you want that color years from now? Does it still match with your decorating theme, or is it flexible with different home designs? For this very reason, many homes have beige carpeting. It is such a resilient color when it comes to decorating adaptation, and it can be the right choice for you. If you are on the fence, I encourage you to not be
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afraid of a bold choice. A reserved option like beige, brown or other neutral tones can be safe and practical. If you are looking for a statement in your space, then take that leap. Perhaps the purpose of this room needs a pop, or pattern that draws the viewer down and across the entire space. This can give a feeling of excitement, of being fully awake.
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Certain colors offer general mood encouragement. An example is with pink being a soothing color, according to known behavioral studies. Pink, however, may not go with your interior cohesion at all. Your goal can be reached by a simple matter of experiencing the color you are considering. Take some time with it by draping fabric of that color in a space you regularly go, so you can decide if it is the right one for your floor. Patterned or plain? An easy design suggestion is to use the plan for the rest of the room to choose a carpet of either a printed pattern, or a plain. Too much pattern in one room can create a chaotic and cluttered sense of the space. If you selectively choose your patterned pieces, they can become focal points, creating a lively and fun atmosphere. It is the same with bold color options. A plain, single color carpet would offer a steady base for your decorating scheme, and could be the tie-in color that brings it all
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together. Even a patterned carpet can be flexible for changing your interior design, but the ultimate flexibility is with a large thick rug. If a wall-to-wall effect is not for you, open up your options with a rug that would give you adaptability throughout the years. Using carpeting allows for upper floors to have a cushion for muffling sounds of footsteps, feels warm in the wintertime, and offers a sense of comfort in the home. What it really comes down to is that all you need when choosing a carpet are a room and a purpose. The rest will come as the room becomes yours. ~L&H
photos provided by Arnquist CarpetsPlus COLORTILE
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H
HOME DESIGN
Building a dream home should be fun. Or at least it should be an enjoyable experience. For many homeowners, however, lack of knowledge, lack of planning or poor choices can turn that dream into a nightmare.
So how can someone build a dream home, protect their investment, communicate with the building contractor/ subcontractors, and ensure that it all runs smoothly and remains within budget?
That’s a lot to ask, but planning ahead is one of the key elements of a successful construction project, whether it’s a brand-new home on a lake or a remodel of an older home.
Figuring out who to trust as a designer, architect or builder is about more than just a casual reference or a likable personality. In addition, significant decisions should not be based entirely on cost alone. By asking for a sample plan or a representative example, along with what to expect for a specific cost, a homeowner can alleviate many of those kinds of disagreements down the road.
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Although it’s a common practice to ask a construction professional for references, many homeowners don’t follow through. It’s also vitally important to actually speak to former customers. One major question to ask: “Would you work with that contractor again?”
A Possible Shift in the Industry
Like any other businesses, design and building have evolved and changed over time. HGTV and internet sites like Pinterest and Houzz have fundamentally altered a portion of the building process as consumers are flooded with creative ideas and options for their homes. Not everyone who wants to build that dream home has the time, energy or knowledge to conduct the up-front research or handle the day-to-day decisions involved while the home is being built. There will always be hiccups, but it shouldn’t have to get competitive between the homeowner and any of the contractors. “In the past, most of the time the builder acted as the general contractor, wrote the contract, and handled all the details and all the subcontractors,” says Jill Stoeck of JS Design
in Alexandria. “Today, it has become much more complicated, and I really believe that many builders are too busy to manage it all. Along with providing the design of the home, I can follow through and provide services as a project manager for the homeowner.” Along with Steve Northway of Construction Advocates in Nisswa, and Ken Rausch of Tremolo Designs in Battle Lake, these three construction professionals now offer busy homeowners a new approach and a helping hand in each and every aspect of the building process. Those approaches and titles may differ slightly, but each one brings valuable experience to that process, along with a strong desire to support the homeowner in making the process less complicated and more fun. “As a former builder, I’ve built nearly 2,000 homes, so I understand how challenging the process can be,” says Northway. “I founded Construction Advocates to take the mystery
out of building and remodeling for homeowners. My role is that of a coach or advisor—helping people select the right team and then helping them navigate the construction process to achieve their goals.” Rausch, who provides not only residential design, but also project planning, contractor selection and management services, agrees that many people need someone on their side who understands the industry and can bring their visions into reality. “I’m a communicator,” he adds. “I believe in providing over-the-top customer service and communication.” There may not be a wrong way or a right way to build a dream home, but the opportunities and options now available are a new way of possibly providing a homeowner with a more pleasant and fun experience.
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“Before you get into any process and hire a designer, architect or builder, do your research – get involved early, and do all that hard work first.”
–Ken Rausch
“I believe what’s been lacking in much of the homebuilding industry is customer service,” he points out. “It’s extremely important to keep the communication totally open, so the customer knows exactly what each of the sub-contractors are charging and how proposed changes will affect the overall project cost.”
When considering starting his own business, it was important for Rausch to do something he was passionate about.
Ken Rausch likes to use the title of “Construction Manager” for the
“I love seeing families realize their dreams with a home at the lake
services he can provide during the building or remodeling of a
that’s customized to their lifestyle,” he adds. “That’s why I do it, and
home. He started Tremolo Designs as a way to help homeowners
helping families spend more quality time at the lake is extremely
take the stress and worry out of the building process.
rewarding.”
“I represent the homeowner and can manage everything,” he explains. “Not only can I do the design, but I can also manage the subcontractors and resolve any issues that occur during the entire building process. My goal is to be a trusted partner and make the entire process easy and fun for the homeowner.”
With a background in design and construction management on the corporate level, he brings his commercial experience to the residential side on a smaller scale and tries to put himself in the place of the homeowner.
www.tremolodesigns.com
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“No one builds or remodels enough homes in their lifetime to get good at it.”
–Steve Northway
After spending more than 30 years in the construction business, Steve Northway, co-founder of Nor-Son Construction, decided he wanted to use his experience to help people, so he started Construction Advocates Inc. in Nisswa. Just as a financial advisor helps people identify their goals and then develop and implement strategies, Northway helps people at every stage of the building process. “Depending on my clients’ needs,” he says, “I can help them decide whether to build or renovate, pick the right site, choose the right architect, builder and interior designer, evaluate bids and oversee the construction so my clients can relax and enjoy the process of building a dream home.”
He adds that when building a dream home, you need to do the work up front by being sure you hire the right architect or designer, getting the drawings, finding and hiring the right contractor, and developing a fair construction contract – all before you dig the hole in the ground.
“If you get the first 10 percent right, the other 90 percent goes much better.” www.constructionadvocates.com
“If you don’t know what you’re looking for, you don’t know what you’re missing.”
–Jill Stoeck
“It’s not fun for anyone if something goes wrong,” she says. “I’m a real big believer that besides having a complete set of floor plans, you need to develop a strong overall construction plan. That’s where I’m a little bit unique. I am able to design the home or remodel, but then I follow through as a project manager – finding a builder, hiring the subcontractors, setting up and adhering to a
As JS Design in Alexandria, Jill Stoeck has 30 years of experience
time schedule, keeping track of the budget, and everything else
working with homeowners and protecting their investment through-
in between.”
out the building process. With a degree in interior design and an emphasis on detail in the construction field, her work centers
“You have to go through the same processes with a tiny house
around envisioning a client’s dream and working together as a
as you do with a big house, and many people go into a home
team to realize their visions and turn them into reality.
building or renovating project without a clear understanding of
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the contract, timeline or budget,” she explains. “Before anyone says ‘yes’ to a project, we will have discussed the quality and building details necessary to achieve their look. I will have all of the bids, so we know the budget, along with a workable contract. I truly believe that most people need someone to help them along the way, especially when it involves the kind of custom features they might want in their dream home.”
With her color-coded timelines, Stoeck is well-known for her adherence to a schedule, especially with the “team” of contractors she typically works with and trusts. She feels that having an advocate like her provides a level of protection for the homeowner. She adds, “I can ‘speak the building language’ that allows me to be the liaison between the homeowners and contractors. Respecting both sides leads to a great work environment on the job site, and the homeowners can feel it. www.jillstoeckdesign.com ~L&H
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D
DO IT YOURSELF
HOW TO TILE A BACKSPLASH A tile backsplash can liven up a room. And it’s an intermediate-level DIY project you can tackle in a long weekend. Here’s how to do it.
CALCULATE THE TILE YOU’LL NEED Multiply the width and height of the wall to determine your square footage and how much tile you’ll need. Add 10-15 percent extra to allow for mistakes.
PREPARE AND PROTECT YOUR WORKSPACE Clear countertops and move appliances away from the wall so you can place tile behind them. Disconnect the stove before you start. Cover them with plastic or old sheets. Place plastic or flattened cardboard on the countertop to shield it from scratches, grout and debris. Place tape along the edges of the countertop and cabinets to keep them clean. Turn off circuit breakers to cut power to outlets in the area where you’re working. Remove the cover plates from light switches and outlets.
PREP THE WALL A clean, textured wall is necessary for the tiles to adhere. Mix 1/2-cup of trisodium phosphate and water in a bucket and wipe down the walls. This strong detergent is caustic enough to dissolve oil and grease, so wear gloves. It will rough up most painted surfaces. Let it dry, then scuff with 120-grit sandpaper if your paint is enamel or particularly glossy.
CUT AND MARK YOUR TILE Lay out your design to see how everything lines up. Start in the middle, at the most visible part of the wall and work out and up from there. Tiles expand and contract, so leave an 1/8inch gap between cabinets and the countertop. You can add caulking or trim to cover as needed.
PREPARE YOUR TILE ADHESIVE Flex-type mortar, epoxy mastic and thin-set mortar are all used to affix tiles to the wall. Check which type of mortar is recommended for your tile type and the temperature and humidity level of the room.
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APPLY THE ADHESIVE Use a trowel to apply a thin layer of mortar to the wall. Work in 2-foot sections so the mortar doesn’t dry out. Next, lay in a second coat to help tiles develop a firm grip. Holding the trowel at a 45-degree angle, spread the adhesive in a ridge. Ridges should flow in one direction. If your tile is larger, you’ll need a larger trowel, which will create larger ridges.
CUT THE TILE Cut tiles to fit. Use a straightedge or ruler to keep everything even. Tile cutters work for ceramic or porcelain tile, while a wet saw is better for natural stone. (It stops chipping and breaking.) Use a tile nipper if you need to cut circles or angles.
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you’ll damage the grout’s structural integrity. Repeat the process to remove the excess grout after it fully dries a few hours later.
CURE AND SEAL The grout will cure in one to three days. Apply a grout sealer to protect against moisture. You can also add latex caulking along the spot where the backsplash and countertop meet. Finally, replace your appliances and outlet covers, restore power and you’re ready to go. You’ve just installed your own tile backsplash. ~L&H
LAY THE TILE If you’re using mosaic tile sheets, line up each piece. Back up often to make sure everything is straight. Individual tiles are a little more labor intensive, but the same principles apply. Use tile spacers to maintain even gaps between tiles. Gently move the sheets or tiles up and down, perpendicular to your trowel lines. This will smooth out the ridges in the mortar and help the tiles adhere to the wall.
If you’re using natural stone, pre-seal the tiles at least three hours before applying grout. Otherwise you risk staining the stone. At the end of the waiting period, remove spacers. Wipe down tiles with water.
PREPARE YOUR GROUT Fill a bucket with the amount of water recommended by the grout manufacturer, mix in grout powder. Let the solution stand for 10 minutes.
DRY AND SEAL THE TILE
Stir frequently to keep a consistency similar to peanut butter. It will last about two hours, so work quickly.
Let the mortar dry completely, according to the instructions on the label. This often takes around 24 hours, so plan accordingly.
GROUT THE BACKSPLASH Use a grout float to apply enough grout to coat the entire backsplash. Keep the grout lines even with the faces of the tiles. Let the grout harden slightly, about 20 minutes. Wipe off excess with a damp sponge or cheesecloth. Don’t use too much water or
TIPS FROM THE PROS! At Capital Granite we believe the backsplash for kitchen or vanities should not overpower the beauty of the new countertops. Our standard backsplash height is 4” and it is milled down to a thin ¾” to visually blend nicely with the wall. Some customers desire scalloped edges or artful arches and custom beveled edges. The beauty of custom backsplashes can also be found in kitchen projects featuring full height backsplash behind a range. Full height backsplash can easily accommodate wall mounted pot filling faucets and be a seamless grout-free option for ease of cleaning. Cat Blais Project Manager Capital Granite
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E EXTERIORS
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“There is more to the business than building saunas. It’s the concept of getting your customers away from their everyday stresses,” says George Rule, master sauna builder and owner of Sisu Saunas.
photos courtesy Sisu Saunas
While the sauna heats up, let’s dig a little bit deeper into the words “Sisu” and “Sauna” that will lead to a better understanding of the Finnish culture. Sisu is a Finnish term. According to Rule, when translated to English, it means, “Strength of will, determination, perseverance, and acting rationally in the face of adversity.” The word derives from sisus, which means something inner or interior,” Rule says. Sauna is simply a small room used as a hot-air or steam bath for cleaning and refreshing the body. A traditional Finnish sauna is a wooden structure that requires a kiuas (stove), which is commonly heated with wood (electricity, gas, and oil can also be used to heat a sauna) that heats a bed of natural stones. Once those stones are hot, water is thrown over them to create steam. The steam or vapor, rising from the stones, is called loyly. While people tend to use lufas in the shower, steam bathers use whisks fashioned from birch twigs called vihta or vasta. For the past 26 years, Rule has designed and built custom saunas and delivered them to 42 states. “I have so many orders, I can’t keep up,” Rule commented. The first sauna Rule ever worked with was a sauna built in 1928. The sauna was constructed into the side of a hill on the shores of a family resort. It had a gravel ceiling, which provided reverse insulation.
Insulation in a sauna is essential for several reasons. “For the same reason you wouldn’t want to have an uninsulated house, you shouldn’t have an uninsulated sauna,” Owen Christensen, owner of Christensen Saunas, said. Christensen Saunas is a family run business based out of Duluth. “The insulation holds the heat, so you don’t go through as much wood. It is more comfortable, especially in the winter. It heats up faster, within 30 to 45 minutes.” Christensen has been in the sauna business for 45 years, and custom builds around 50 traditional, stand-alone saunas a year. “Most people like their sauna to heat between 160 to 180 degrees. I have met some die-hard Fins that claim they can stand 200 degrees, but I won’t sit with them,” Christensen
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commented. He went on to say, “In our designs, we try and create different heating zones, so for those that don’t like it too hot, they can sit on a side bench by a window or a lower bench as heat tends to rise.” There are several benefits to taking a sauna. Studies have shown that sauna therapy, “Helps soothe and relax tired muscles, provides temporary relief for arthritic pain and respiratory conditions, and naturally reduces toxins.” Those are just a few of the 12 benefits that Rule pointed out. “The sauna provides us with a good night’s rest, a clear mind, and a fresh start,” Rule added. There are benefits to purchasing a sauna as well.
“It is an attraction piece to the backyard like a hot tub or a fire pit. It is a nice place to relax,” Christensen said. “People want that seclusion in their backyard, especially now more than ever,” Rule added.
photos courtesy Christensen Saunas
A sauna, like Minnesotans, is built to withstand some extreme conditions, like hot to cold and dry to wet, which is why cedar is the best wood in constructing a sauna. Cedar is the softest and thus the coolest of all woods. It warms up quickly, but not too hot to the touch, creating a comfortable environment.
Cedar contains some natural resins, oils, and tannins that give it antimicrobial qualities. These also act as a natural mildicide and helps keep the whole sauna in a more hygienic condition.
Christensen Saunas specialize in building traditional, “first-class,” outdoor, freestanding, wood stove saunas. “We offer four different sizes (6x10, 6x12, 8x14, and 8x16) with three different siding options (standard T1-11, half log, and cedar lap), fancy stonework and stainless steel water tanks,” Christensen stated. He went on to say, “But a customer can decide where they want windows and stove placement, so each design is kind of a custom-build for each customer.” Each size, except the 6x10, has a dressing room built in it with a cedar bench and candle window box. Customers also have the option of including an inviting 2-foot covered porch. “Our saunas are built to shed water
into the ground, so no septic system is needed,” Christensen commented. A smaller-size sauna is easier on the budget (about $10,000) and heats up faster, but only seats a few, and unlike the larger saunas, in the 6x10, you can’t lay down. The larger saunas can climb up in price to just about $20,000, depending on additional custom-designs such as additional windows, cedar shutters, movable cedar strip backrests, and a through-the-wall thermometer. To see more options and pricing, visit Christensen and his family at christensensaunas.com. Sisu Saunas specializes in custom standalone outdoor saunas and built-in interior
saunas. “We take great pride in listening to what our customers want in a sauna and then stepping it up a notch to present a sauna that is beyond all expectations,” Rule mentioned. While building conventional saunas, Rule came across the barrel design or keg-shaped design. After studying the design, he brought it to two engineers that told him it couldn’t be done. “I asked how, not if,” Rule said. After some time, Rule pulled off the energy-efficient, portable, one-of-a-kind, barrel sauna. “We all know that heat climbs, and as it climbs, you’re losing heat on the floor. Unlike many conventional saunas with squared corners, the barrel sauna’s cylindrical shape allows
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greater air exchange from top to bottom,” Rule explained. He went on to say, “The cylindrical design has 23 percent less cubic feet or area to heat up than standard wall-and-ceiling style saunas. This allows the sauna to heat up sooner, which in return, lowers the costs of operating the sauna.” Other benefits of a barrel sauna include the wooden floor, which is easier to heat than saunas built with a concrete floor and that bowed shape allows all the water in the sauna to flow naturally towards the center of the floor. Sisu Sauna’s barrel design is 7’11” long, 6’4” wide, and 6’8” high and weighs approximately 700 to 800lbs, fitting up to eight people. Rule also makes a mini 5-foot barrel sauna that is 5’3” long, 6’4” wide and 6’8” high and weighs approximately 600-800lbs, fitting up to four people. The barrel arrives fully assembled, ready to “take the heat,” with stove and rocks, a vapor-proof interior light, thermometer, hygrometer, copper bucket and ladle, back brush, vihta, and exterior “sauna” sign and exterior towel hooks, starting under $4,800.
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To look into personalized options such as band color, door style, door swing direction, and bench height layout, venture over to sisu-saunas.com/cedar-barrel-saunas. When shopping for a traditional sauna, you’ll also need to look into wood stoves. “I’ve noticed a considerable increase in customer demand for a traditional wood-fired sauna,” Rule stated.
“Wood-heated saunas represent tradition and it elects a sauna master hobbyist. With wood heat, the sauna event becomes extended, the wood needs to be gathered, the fire needs to be nurtured, and the sight and smell create that much better anticipated reward.” Rule added.
Christensen Saunas recommends the Blueberry Stove, a round firebox made of quarter-inch steel. The round shape doesn’t warp from the constant heating and cooling and it allows the rocks to saddle over the hottest part of the stove. The stove is fed from the outside and can burn up to two hours without having to tiptoe out in the snow to add more wood.
photo courtesy Sisu Saunas
Sauna wood stoves have changed over the years to the now popular feed-the-woodthrough-the-wall option. “It used to be that you’d have to carry your wood into the sauna, which created wear and tear on the sauna, and then they moved the stove into the change room, but you still had to drag that wood in and those wood chips would get all over the sauna. Now stoves are externally fed, so there’s no mess inside the sauna,” Rule explained.
“The best time to take a sauna is any time you can, whether it’s winter or summer. People here like to sauna just before dark. It takes away that itch from mosquito bites, and you come out refreshed and feeling much cooler and better,”
photo courtesy Christensen Saunas
Once your sauna is installed, you don’t have to wait for the Vikings to win a Super Bowl.
Christensen concluded. ~L&H
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D
DESIGNER PORTFOLIO
Building a dream home or refreshing a family cabin comes with a myriad of decisions that need to be made. One choice that is often the easiest to make is deciding to upgrade counters to granite or quartz. Northern Stone is a local company that specializes in granite and quartz installation for all areas of the home. With two locations, Northern Stone can serve clients in Fargo, Bismarck and the surrounding areas with one goal in mind, to deliver the highest quality of customer service along with expert installation. Tina Flach, of Northern Stone, shares insight into the company and highlights the benefits and beauty of quartz and granite within the home.
WHEN DID NORTHERN STONE BEGIN SERVING THE RED RIVER VALLEY? We opened our doors to serve the region on September 19, 2013. Our company has now expanded with two locations in Bismarck and Fargo to better serve our customers. WHAT SETS GRANITE AND QUARTZ APART FROM OTHER COUNTERTOP OPTIONS? Granite is an environmentally-friendly option as it is mined and cut into beautiful slabs to be used within homes or businesses. This particular stone is extremely durable and long lasting, and is a favorite design option for those who seek a surface that can withstand heat and daily activity. Quartz counters are created from mined quartz and then combined with polymer resin to create unique slabs ready to be installed. This type of surface is also hygienic with a non-porous finish and has endless color choices. These finishes range from sleek industrial concrete finishes to colorful vein patterns that can match any color scheme. Both granite and quartz are extremely durable (not indestructable) solid, hard surfaces that are not easily harmed by everyday wear. Cabin and homeowners alike find an ease of life simply by having counters that guests and family can use and enjoy without any concern.
HOW DOES GRANITE OR QUARTZ HELP IMPROVE A HOME’S VALUE WHEN IT COMES TO KITCHEN AND BATH RENOVATION? Kitchen and bath upgrades are among the most popular areas that potential home buyers want to see in their search for a lake cabin or home. Utilizing granite or quartz in these areas can drastically update and modernize existing cabinetry and spaces instantly with this one change to a space. Granite or quartz are a beautiful addition to any home, and can often increase the resale value of a home by up to 25 percent! WHAT HAS BEEN THE MOST CREATIVE DESIGN USE OF GRANITE THAT YOUR COMPANY HAS INSTALLED? Homeowners are looking to make their home a complete retreat and we are seeing a rise of shower installations that utilize our products. The master bathroom continues to trend
towards creating a spa-like atmosphere, where home or cabin owners can relax in customized elegance. A unique way to create maximum design flow in a kitchen space has been to design tables that match the counters. This not only adds a dramatic moment in a kitchen space, but it creates a cohesive look for the entire room. The time we spend in our homes or at our lake cabins is precious, and much of that time is spent with family and friends gathered together making memories. Clients are creating outdoor kitchens that add opportunities to connect in new ways. Using granite or quartz in these areas add to the design aesthetic while continuing the interior flow of the home to the outdoors.
WHAT TRENDS DO YOU SEE FOR 2021 IN THE GRANITE AND STONE INDUSTRY? • Homeowners are seeking countertops with character, that reflects their personal style and personality. • Matte finish surfaces are coming in strong with honed, leathered and sueded versions becoming available. • Quartz remains a strong countertop choice, and offers a variety of color, patterns and finishes.
WHAT IS THE BUSINESS PHILOSOPHY BEHIND NORTHERN STONE? We strongly believe in old fashioned customer service and using high quality products for our clients. WHAT DOES THE PROCESS LOOK LIKE TO BEGIN A COUNTERTOP REFRESHER OR NEW INSTALLATION WITH NORTHERN STONE? We invite you to stop into our showroom to talk with one of our sales team members and learn about granite and quartz, and which is the best choice for your project. If you have a vision or even a simple sketch with basic room measurements we can get started right away with the first steps of planning. There is no
need to worry about your drawing skills or even having perfect measurements, we will do an accurate laser template when we begin the process. The next step is to pick the color of granite or quartz, then choose a sink from one of the wide array of choices that we carry in our showrooms. The next decision is to determine the edge profile of your counters. We have five beautiful edge options for you to choose from. When you are ready, sign your approved quote and then the fabrication process begins! Our team looks forward to meeting with you at our Fargo or Bismarck locations. ~L&H
WEST FARGO 1126 Main Ave W West Fargo, ND 58078 Phone: (701) 297-2255 Showroom Hours: M-F | 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
BISMARCK 920 E Front Ave, Ste D Bismarck, ND 58504 Phone: (701) 989-2929 Showroom Hours: M-F | 8:30 am - 5:00 pm
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FEATURE HOME
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T
he two-story, four-bedroom cottage anchored on the shore of West McDonald Lake is where the Wilson family likes to spend their weekends, but as they drift into retirement, it will become their forever home. The Cape Cod-inspired dwelling is only three years old; however, the Wilsons planted roots out at that lot 18 years ago. In 2002, Paul and Pam purchased a cozy seasonal cabin from the original owner, who purchased the land from the railroad in the 1950s. At the time, the two bedrooms and one bath was a perfect fit for Paul, Pam, and their three children, but as the children grew up and got married, the family outgrew the cabin.
The Wilsons set out in search of a new cabin to meet the needs of their growing family. However, their children didn’t want to give up the shore where they’d spent their summers, swimming, fishing, and waterskiing, and Paul
and Pam weren’t having much luck finding another lake that compared to the clean, clear water where they like to stick their toes. It was then they decided to tear down the existing cabin and start from scratch. “It was a little bittersweet. We had a lot of good years in that old cabin,” the Wilsons shared. Before the cabin came down, Paul and Pam collected a few pieces of treasure from the cabin such as a dresser, a chair, and the dining room table that the previous owner left. “We couldn’t leave the table. We have a lot of good memories from our family game nights around that table,” Pam commented. Those items now have a home in the new cabin, and another leaf was added to the dining table to fit their growing family. “Our kids took a picture of the old cabin and gave the picture to our cousin, who is an artist, and commissioned a painting of the cabin. The kids then gave it to us as a Christmas gift.
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It was a great gift! It is how we will always remember our old cabin,” Paul said. A friend of Pam’s recommended Kelli Wegscheid, owner of Harmonious Architecture, located in Perham, Minn. “It was a quick design process. Kelli understood what we were looking for in a home. Our inspiration came from our trips to the east coast, places like Cape Cod, Martha’s Vineyard, and Newbury Port. While we were out there, I fell in love with the cottage-style lake homes, that gray shaker style, and window boxes,” Pam explained. The Wilsons sat down with Wegscheid in August. “The Wilsons were looking to make this a place they can retire to when the time comes. They wanted bedrooms for their grown children that were large enough to fit a queen bed and a crib or a twin bed as they’re needed,” Wegscheid stated. She went on to say, “We talked about an open floor plan and which rooms should capture a view of the lake.” By October, Wegscheid had completed the design and saw that the Wilsons were in good hands with a contractor. Hunter Briard of Briard Construction poured the foundation in the fall of 2016, and as summer 2017 washed into shore, he completed the 2,800 square foot, year-round cottage. “The Wilsons didn’t want to miss a summer out at
their lake lot,” Briard mentioned. The custom Marvin windows went in, the Smart LP Siding went up, and the flooring from I’ll Tile & Stone was laid. “The home’s style is a cottage feature, craftsman feature, with some Wilson features, and Harmonious features,” Briard mentioned. When you walk into the cabin, “From the front door, you get a clear view of the lake, and that’s exactly what we wanted to see,” Paul said. The lake view is definitely the focal point and Wegscheid captured it well throughout the cabin’s design. “I don’t even know how to describe the view, it is all so beautiful,” Wegscheid said.
“Our inspiration came from our trips to the east coast, places like Cape Cod, Martha’s Vineyard, and Newbury Port. While we were out there, I fell in love with the cottage-style lake homes, that gray Shaker style, and window boxes.” PAM WILSON - HOMEOWNER
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Wegscheid designed the main floor to accommodate all of Paul and Pam’s needs, from the master suite to a main-level laundry room, complete with a built-in dog kennel, so the kennel didn’t have to sit in the middle of the floor. “The main floor has a nice layout, great for entertaining, with a lot of natural light, and you can step out to the patio seamlessly,” Briard stated. The open floor concept with a lake view includes the kitchen, dining area, and great room. It is where the Wilsons spend the majority of their time, that is when they’re not outdoors. “I can be in the kitchen preparing meals and have a view of the grandkids sitting at the dining table, coloring, see the geese in the yard, and included in a conversation in the living room,” Pam explained. The large kitchen island, topped off with granite, is an attraction like a tropical destination island as family and guests tend to gather there under the pendant lighting. White cabinets, stainless steel appliances, and beveled edge subway tile with dark wood and hardware accents create a casual and comfortable place to drink lemonade, peel potatoes, and bake cookies with the grandkids. “I wanted subway tile, but the beveled edges made it a little more unique,” Pam said. “We had white appliances in our old cabin, so 84 Lake & Home Magazine NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2020
we went with stainless steel this time, and it shows when the grandkids have been here,” Pam chuckled. Luxury Vinyl Plank flooring ties together the open floor plan, making it effortless to drift from the kitchen to the great room to the dining room. “Luxury Vinyl Plank flooring is very durable and great for that lake lifestyle, where people are going in and out. It is becoming more common in homes,” Wegscheid said. Sherwin-Williams Amazing Gray paint combine with nautical lake décor to bring the main level together. Pam was able to mine some treasures from little gift shops here and there, and also saved items from the original cabin. “I’m always looking for lake décor,” Pam said.
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The open beams along the ceiling also take that open flow feeling and break it down into more intimate areas of seating. “When a home has too much stark white and grays, it becomes cold, but the dark wood ceiling in the dining room that matches the open beams and the island cabinets warms up the space, making the space cozy and relaxing,” Wegscheid said. “There are many fun features throughout the home, such as the sliding barn doors to the powder room and three port windows.” Tucked in the great room corner, along the white shiplap wall, is a knotty alder staircase. At the foot of the steps is a high box window, and as you climb, a porthole window creates this
“The great room, next to the fireplace, looking out to the lake, I would say, is my favorite. You can see the lake, feel the fire, and still know what’s going on in the kitchen,” Wegscheid commented. Hebron Brick of Fargo, N.D., built the brick fireplace, using the same brick that accents the exterior in front of the garage. “I had picked it for the exterior first, and I really liked it, it had the whites and grays, so we incorporated it into the fireplace,” Pam commented. The fireplace sits along a white, shiplap wall in the center of two square windows, which adds a lot of character to the room. While the dining room is part of the open floor plan, it extends out from the great room like a dock from shore. It is encompassed by windows on all three sides and an accent port window at the peak, creating a unique space with an amazing view of the patio, lake, and deck. “We really enjoy the dining area, not only for the view but our family has a lot of fun around our table. We have a lot of family game nights. It’s usually girls against guys, and can get pretty competitive. Paul’s mom taught the kids, Smear; it’s her favorite game and longstanding game in our family,” Pam laid the cards on the table. The ceiling defines each space in the open floor concept. In the dining area, the vaulted knotty alder ceiling compliments and defines the intimate space. That same look is incorporated in the upstairs great room. “It is 14 feet to the peak, which makes the room feel open and more spacious than it actually is. It also opens up more possibilities such as fun things with lighting and ceiling fans,” Briard explained. 86 Lake & Home Magazine NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2020
“There are many fun features throughout the home, such as the sliding barn doors to the powder room and three port windows.” KELLI WEGSCHEID - HARMONIOUS ARCHITECTURE
feeling that you’re emerging from the cabin of a yacht. The stairs lead to three large bedrooms that are tucked roadside so that everyone could enjoy the lake view in the upstairs great room. The nautical, Cape Cod theme carries through into each bedroom and bathroom. The bathroom counters are topped with quartz. Two shades of brown tile line the master shower and the same shades of browns with a compliment of white are scattered in the pebbled tile shower floor—a subtle reminder that the beach isn’t far. The outdoor space was just as important as the indoor space. In the Wilsons’ original, smaller cabin, they’d grown accustomed to spending the majority of their time outdoors, well into the evening hours. “We are outdoor people. Everyone is in the water or out playing yard games,” Pam mentioned.
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“Our granddaughter, who has caught over 200 panfish off the dock, likes to call this her cabin, and we’re thrilled with that.” PAUL WILSON - HOMEOWNER
“When we built this cabin, we didn’t want to change that and had it designed to spend just as much time outdoors,” Paul added. The large deck, shaded by giant oak trees, is set up for dining or a competitive Wilson family game night and a space for relaxing in the four bright-colored beach chairs that made the move from the original cabin to the new cabin. To keep the view open yet meet codes, the Wilsons went with a cable railing and had solar lighting installed on the posts. Lakes Area Landscape, rooted in Dunvilla, framed the deck with raised flowerbeds. The deck wraps around to a flagstone patio. The Wilsons went with flagstone because it reminded them of their patio in New Mexico, where they lived a short time before returning to lake’s country. “You can take the boy out of Minnesota, but you can’t take the Minnesota out of the boy,” Pam likes to say about her husband. While working with Wegscheid, the Wilsons decided they needed another little outdoor gathering area that provided more shade. “It’s a nice little social area for the family after we get out of the water. It is where the grill is and since Paul loves grilling
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that is usually where he is,” Pam explained. The high-top seating and hot tub on the patio creates additional atmosphere around the yard. “I can flip up the kitchen window while I’m prepping the food, and join right in the conversation,” Pam added. The new east coast inspired cottage cabin fits the Wilsons’ growing family — their forever home on their forever shore. “We enjoy having the kids and grandkids here, which is why we built a bigger, family-friendly home. When the kids come with their kids, we want them to have their own space and feel comfortable. Our granddaughter, who has caught over 200 panfish off the dock, likes to call this her cabin, and we’re thrilled with that,” Paul concluded. ~L&H
CouLDn’t have done it without: Briard Construction
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WILSON HOME “BEFORE”
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FEATURE HOME
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When Chad and Sheila Swanson purchased an older, two-story cabin on Lake Latoka near Alexandria seven years ago, they weren’t sure when they would be retiring. Three years? Five years? Ten years? With four bedrooms and plenty of living space, they were sure, however, that it would “fit the bill” for their large family of three adult children, those children’s spouses, and 10 grandchildren.
“We did some initial updates to make it into a weekend place, and it quickly became clear that it would be the perfect location for our retirement home.” Sheila Swanson - homeowner
“The house needed a lot of work, but it turned out to be a great property for us, and we all loved the clean lake, the flat lot, and the sandy shoreline,” says Sheila. “We did some initial updates to make it into a weekend place, and it quickly became clear that it would be the perfect location for our retirement home. We would enjoy what we had for now.” Five years later, they made the decision and set that retirement date for the following summer. At that point, some new decisions would soon have to be made.
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Good Bones “We thought about tearing it down and starting over,” Sheila continues. “But the home was the right size and the right location on the lot, and we didn’t want to have to deal with additional lakeshore setbacks.” All in all, Chad and Sheila felt the structure had “good bones,” and decided that they would investigate whether a major remodel could provide them with the kind of home they wanted and needed for retirement. “To begin with, my first thoughts were white cabinets with white woodwork, more open space, wood floors, and a lot of windows to the lake,” she says. “Close friends of ours had previously worked with Jill Stoeck of JS Design in Alexandria, and they highly recommended her.” During their first meeting at the property, they gave the designer a vision of what they would like to include in their retirement home.
“We walked around the home and just talked,” says Stoeck, who has more than 30 years in the building industry. “I asked them what they wanted to accomplish, and I think I took 15 pages of notes that day.” There was no blueprint for the original house, so envisioning the Swanson’s dream and channeling it into a focused plan needed a different kind of approach. “Once they decided to move ahead with the remodel, we had Hilltop Lumber measure the perimeter of the home,” says Stoeck. “Then I worked with the existing roof lines and window openings, aligning the gables from front to back – in order to create their new look without compromising the window views.”
Outside The Swansons didn’t have any particular style in mind for the exterior. “We just knew we wanted an updated look, and we absolutely loved the way Jill designed it, with the chalet-type peaks,” says Sheila. “It’s amazing that many people have no idea that it’s a remodel – they think we tore it down and rebuilt.” The “look” she designed creates an entirely different dynamic for the house. “My goal isn’t to match a specific type of style, like modern or mountain,” Stoeck says. “I want my designs to be timeless, not trendy.”
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“We just knew we wanted an updated look, and we absolutely loved the way Jill designed it, with the chalet-type peaks.” Sheila Swanson - homeowner
Working together with JS Designs throughout the process, the Swansons selected Brian P. Johnson Construction Inc., as the builder/ remodeler, someone who Chad describes as “super particular” about every aspect of the build. Stoeck agrees that he is a perfectionist. “Brian Johnson and the entire team of construction professionals we put together
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are all people we trust to work with to ensure that everything is done the right way,” she says. “When I do a design/build like this, I am basically their ‘go-to’ person for any questions or concerns, and I walk the homeowner through each and every step.” For all those involved, that also means keeping everyone on the same page, according to Johnson, whose constant focus on quality and craftsmanship shows through on this project. “This was an extensive remodel,” he says. “What stood out for me was the whole transformation as to how it looked in the beginning, especially the exterior, to how it would look as a finished product. There was never a time I doubted that we could create the updated retirement home the Swansons wanted.”
With their retirement scheduled for the following spring, the timeline of the remodel was very important to these homeowners. Johnson says that Stoeck was a stickler with the timeline. Her organized, color-coded calendar kept everything on schedule for the Swansons. “Our plan was to remove all our furniture and belongings from the house right after Labor Day, and we wanted to be able to move back in by the following Memorial Day weekend,” says Sheila. “Everyone involved respected Jill’s scheduling, and even with a few hiccups, it all moved along according to the plan she set up and carried out.”
“This was an extensive remodel. What stood out for me was the whole transformation as to how it looked in the beginning, especially the exterior, to how it would look as a finished product.” Brian Johnson Brian P. Johnson Construction Inc.
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“This type of extensive remodel can be challenging, but in a good way,” she says. “As far as envisioning how they want it to look, I felt that what they could not see, I could see.” One area in particular needed drastic changes. The space on the main floor facing the lake, beginning from the end of the kitchen, to the beverage bar and then into the living area, initially had three walls, including one wall with a 26-foot expanse of river rock. “That rock wall had to be taken down, stone by stone,” she continues. “The entire space was so dark, and my goal was to be able to open up those rooms for more light – and add windows to create a view all along that entire side of the home.”
“This type of extensive remodel can be challenging, but in a good way. As far as envisioning how they want it to look, I felt that what they could not see, I could see.” Jill Stoeck - JS Designs
Inside Except for the 10 feet that needed to be added to lengthen the garage, the footprint of the home remained the same. The inside, however, was totally transformed. “We took it down to the studs,” says Chad. “They put in all new wiring, all new plumbing, and all new insulation. For all intents and purposes, it’s a new house, which is a wonderful feeling.” Using Chief Architect, a 3D design program in color, Stoeck was also able to give the Swansons a realistic picture of how each room on the inside would look.
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“I love doing stairways. Compared to what it looked like before, it totally changes the entire entryway, and now it’s a focal point in the house.” Brian Johnson Brian P. Johnson Construction Inc.
The only significant addition of living space to this fourbedroom home is the bonus room above the four-season porch. They needed a place to store the 14-foot-long quilting machine that Sheila wasn’t quite ready to sell, and she had to find room for “just a few” tubs of quilts she has made over the years. They were excited that they could also fit two queensized beds in the room, providing extra sleeping space when the entire family comes to stay.
Another challenge was the staircase. Chad says they never liked the configuration of the staircase and had hoped there would be a way to open up the foyer and the stairs. “We looked at different options of how to change that,” he says. “For structural reasons, we didn’t have the space to move it. But Jill and Brian worked together to design and build a distinctive rail system that makes it look so much better. We’re extremely happy with how it turned out.” Although the staircase and railing took a great deal of work and rebuilding, it was one of Johnson’s favorite projects in this remodel.
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“I’m not good at envisioning, but I know what I like when I see it,” says Sheila. “Right from the beginning, Jill got a handle on our taste and was always so ready to make suggestions, not only on the design, but even items like the stand-alone bathtub in the master bath. We worked really well together.” As the builder/remodeler, Johnson says it was an enjoyable experience to work with the Swansons – even when unexpected, but necessary, framing changes were only revealed after the demo process had begun. “With a remodel of an older home, you can always expect minor snags and glitches with things like wiring, wall stability and roof structure,” he says. “During our discussions on how and why something
“We love it here, but so much of this is for our family, When the grandkids get here, they literally jump out of the vehicle and off the dock.” Sheila Sanson - homeowner
needed to be changed, their main concern was always to be sure it was done right. I don’t know if they originally thought they could get the house to where they wanted it with a remodel, but this home was totally transformed.” Spending all their time at the lake after living in Morris for 40 years has also transformed their family life. Although all 18 of them are usually only together a few times a year for holidays, they now have the comfort and space they desired. “We love it here, but so much of this is for our family,” says Sheila. “When the grandkids get here, they literally jump out of the vehicle and off the dock. Ranging in age from 3 to 18, their activities go from swimming to kneeboarding to tubing.” Both Chad and Sheila feel they made the best of any of the choices involved. “We wouldn’t change a thing about this remodel.” ~L&H
CouLDn’t have done it without: JS Design
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FEATURE HOME
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“Let us help build your story.”
That’s the philosophy that the builders, designers and contractors at Lands End Development LLC in Crosslake live by. Every house that the custom home builder creates is specifically tailored to the needs and tastes of the family that lives there. The 4,200 square foot home on the shores of Lake O’Brien, just east of Crosslake, is no exception. With four bedrooms, four bathrooms and a bunkhouse, as well as numerous gathering spaces for both guests and family, it was designed to feel welcoming and timeless. The homeowners came into the project with a good idea of what they needed from their new home. “The homeowners lived on this property in a small cabin for five years before building this home, so when it came to building the house to incorporate how they used the property,
it was easy to know what they wanted to accomplish,” explains Renae Balmer, the project’s interior designer. “They have three kids, two dogs, a cat and friends and family in and out all the time. They use the outside spaces, the yard, and the lake and wanted to be able to just walk out onto the patio area to the lake, so the floor coverings and traffic flow had to keep that in mind. All the home’s finishes are durable and enhanced with use.” Taking note of the way your current home functions is a smart way to make sure that a new build improves on the current model. Take a page from this couple’s book and jot down what works well (and what doesn’t) in your current home or cabin. Then keep an ongoing list of features, additions or needs that would make your next home more convenient.
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You don’t have to solve the issues, just note them. If you bring the professionals a list of these goals for your new property, they’ll help you figure out how to meet them. And this specificity will help them craft the most customized home possible. Understanding what homeowners want from each room helps the home function optimally and can help make life feel more orderly and peaceful. It can also lead to some creative problem solving. Tracking sand from the beach all over the house is a common problem anyone with a beach can relate to. The house on Lake O’Brien tackles it with a design solution that other cabin dwellers can emulate in their next build or remodel. “There is a door from the lakeside that goes into the powder bath and mudroom, so the beach sand can be contained in that
area,” explains Balmer. “The mudroom is also accessible from the garage and the driveway, so wherever you are coming from you can come into the mudroom and hopefully have a ‘drop’’ spot with lockers for each family member.” There are benches so it’s easy to take off your shoes and hooks for coats and bags. Keeping everything orderly and user-friendly was important to the homeowners. In a house full of kids, guests and animals, every bit of order helps. The design team kept access and convenience in mind every step of the way. “The large pantry with a pocket door is also a helpful design element,” says Balmer. “It has great storage, but when you need to hide some mess, you just stash it in there and shut the door. The laundry right off the mudroom is accessible to all family members.
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The heated brick floor in the mudroom is great for drying melted winter snow and dripping wet dogs and kids.” That herringbone brick pattern isn’t just functional, it’s also beautiful. It repeats elsewhere in the home, giving the house on Lake O’Brien a classic look. The brick was installed by Chad Reed, the local tile mason who also installed the tile throughout the house. It adds a timeless appeal. “I love brick. I also wanted it to look like an old floor,” Balmer says. She might have enjoyed the process a bit more than Reed did. “It definitely gave him a headache with the angles, pattern, etc. But it turned out super cool.”
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There are dozens of these original, personalized touches in the house on Lake O’Brien. And that’s what sets it apart. It’s what makes a house feel like a home and not a showroom. “I like to pull from all the styles and places that I love and put it all together,” says Balmer. “I wanted it to be timeless and not trendy. I always tell homeowners when they are worrying about if something goes together—‘if you love it, it goes.’ And I have found that to be true, in this project and in others.” Natural textures, a neutral – but never boring – color scheme and interesting architectural details are layered to create a totally unique look. Chalkboard messages greet the family and guests on the laundry room door. An intriguing blue vessel sink in one of the bathrooms was created by an artisan discovered on Etsy. It’s complemented by a custom vanity designed by Balmer and built by Products Unlimited Inc. in Brainerd. Balmer also designed the scroll pattern that graces the beds in the bunkroom. Its design is echoed by the railing in the bonus space above the garage, which includes a bedroom and bathroom. Charming touches like a
“I like to pull from all the styles and places that I love and put it all together. I wanted it to be timeless and not trendy. I always tell homeowners when they are worrying about if something goes together — ‘if you love it, it goes.’ And I have found that to be true, in this project and in others.” Renae Balmer INTERIOR DESIGNER
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Reclaimed barnwood from Big Wood Timber Frames, with locations in Brainerd and St. Paul, accents the ceilings and walls throughout the home. There’s reclaimed wood in the bedrooms, the bunkroom, even some of the bathrooms. Wood walls and ceilings envelop the lower level, where the boys’ bedrooms, bathroom and the bunkroom are anchored by a comfortable sectional and big screen TV that are perfect for movie night. The master suite features painted and reclaimed walls and ceilings, a wooden headboard and a chandelier draped with surprisingly graceful wooden beads. Even the master bath countertop references wood – albeit indirectly. “It’s a natural quartz, supplied by Capital Granite,” explains Balmer. “I think it works well in the house because it reminds me of petrified wood.” Warm-toned wood also decorates the elevated ceiling in the great room, a welcoming room at the heart of the home. It’s decorated in hard-working plaid and durable leather in shades of brown, pale blue and green that echo the landscape outside. A rustic stone fireplace featuring custom metal corbels and
colorful rag rug, a classic Dutch door, open shelves in the pantry and comfortable window seats give this thoroughly modern home a sense of comfort, ease and hominess. Balmer pulled inspiration from a variety of styles to give this home a look that’s all its own. “We used some very rustic elements (reclaimed wood beams and floors), some very formal elements such as more elegant lights, some farmhouse styles like the kitchen island and the many barn doors,” says Balmer. “(We utilized) cottagey elements as well, with the painted wood floor and some elements of the exterior architecture and the cabinetry.” The home’s influences may be diverse, but the rich look and complex textures of wood anchors both the interior and exterior. There are durable wood counters in the pantry, character-rich wooden benches and cabinets dotting the rooms, the aforementioned barn doors and wood floors underfoot.
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a reclaimed timber mantel made by Don’s Masonry in Brainerd effortlessly blends wood and stone. This combination shows up in the boathouse/ bar as well. This charming and versatile space has been carved out of a hillside by the water. The structure’s wood interior shines when the doors are open and recalls a sort of magical hobbit house when the doors are closed. The brick pathway and rough-hewn stone exterior extend the magical illusion and continue the exterior’s effortless blend of wood and stone. Stained fascia lines the contours of the roof. Cedar-stained custom wood garage doors add a natural touch to a usually utilitarian space. A stone patio unites numerous outdoor entertainment areas, including a firepit ringed by Adirondack chairs, an outdoor dining area and a pair of rocking chairs. Everything is arranged to help family and friends connect and appreciate the outdoors.
The interior of the home also showcases family connections in unexpected and beautiful ways. The custom steel hood in the kitchen and the striking metal and reclaimed timber railings were made by the homeowner’s father, a gifted artisan. He also did all the specialty trim and metal work in the house. A beam in the kitchen is adorned with handpainted numbers, a visible link to the past to ponder while enjoying morning coffee in the sunshine or a glass of wine at the kitchen island. There’s plenty of room for the whole household to join. “The kitchen is the natural gathering place, always,” says Balmer. “We knew that going in, so I made sure to make the island extra large to gather around. It doesn’t matter if you have a tiny kitchen or a giant kitchen, that is where you will gather.”
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Both the kitchen and the great room boast an almost jaw-dropping number of windows. Once visitors notice the great banks of windows in these central rooms, they begin to see how the natural light and cool lake breezes are featured all over the home. As with everything in this home, it was intentional. “I think in Minnesota, you feel like you have to be outside any and all nice days,” says Balmer. “With all the large windows on both sides of the house and lake views from most of the house, you feel like you are outside even when you are not. With double-hung windows in the kitchen and great room that can be opened to get the lake breezes and sounds flowing through the house in the summer, it can’t really get any better.” When the nights get chilly, the family retreats into those window-filled rooms that were designed to blur the boundaries between outdoors and indoors. Transitional living spaces extend the outdoor season a few weeks longer. “Another favorite gathering place is the screen porch,” says Balmer. “With a fireplace, it is used on those first warm days of early spring to the last days of November.” The home on Lake O’Brien is a combination of styles and designs. But they all come together to support and shelter the young family at the heart of the home. ~L&H
CouLDn’t have done it without: Lands End
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Big Wood Timber Frames | RECLAIMED TIMBER MATERIALS
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Blakeman Pumping Inc. Brainerd Glass Inc
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Classic Wood Floors North
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Grinning Bear Roll-Off Home Interior Supply KHB Contractors Inc Kinetico
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Lakes Millwork | GARAGE DOORS McPherson Products
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FEATURE HOME
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ebuilding or remodeling a beloved family cabin is a fairly common occurrence in Minnesota lakes country. But rebuilding a sleepaway camp is a much more unusual project. Yet that’s exactly what’s been happening along the shore of one lake for years. Construction on the latest incarnation was completed last summer. This lake near Walker has been a favorite summer retreat for generations. Legions of campers spent long summer days on the water, took their meals in the lodge and settled into cozy cabins under the stars. They returned year after year, reprising cherished summer traditions. After the camp was shuttered, the land and the buildings were divided and sold. Although different families would eventually come to own the properties, the camp buildings still felt linked.
“The properties are all sort of connected,” explains the homeowner whose home is featured in this story. “Our cabin was the old director’s cabin.” The next-door neighbors owned the former camp lodge and slowly set about converting it into a comfortable home. After many decades, they decided to sell. Their longtime neighbors, the owners of the old director’s cabin, bought the property. The purchase expanded their already deep roots in the area. “The first couple years that we had it, it really opened up the opportunity for our kids to have more guests,” the homeowner explained. “Plus, our family has lots of family history on the lake, so we have lots of aunts and uncles and nieces and nephews up and down the shoreline.” As the couple’s kids and social circle grew, so did the gatherings. Dinner for 20 or 30 people wasn’t uncommon. The bedrooms
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Spitzack Builders Inc. was a key partner in figuring out the next steps. This Walker-based company has specialized in new construction, renovations and remodeling for over 35 years. The home would draw on all three areas of expertise.
were often full, even with two cabins available. The homeowners realized that if they were at capacity now, the family compound would be even busier in the future. “Our kids are at the age where they’re young adults,” explains the homeowner. “We expect that someday they’ll have significant others and families. How do we make this into something you can have larger gatherings in?” In addition to needing more space to spend time together, they also wanted to use the cabin all year long. So many of those gathering places would need to be indoors. The camp buildings certainly hadn’t been created with this purpose in mind. Spitzack Builders Inc. was a key partner in figuring out the next steps. This Walker-based company has specialized in new construction, renovations and remodeling for over 35 years. The home would draw on all three areas of expertise. A close look at the family’s goals meant that the project would require a little more than renovation.
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“For the most part, the cabin was rebuilt,” the homeowner says. “We wanted to keep the position of the lodge in place, because it sits close to the lake. We wanted to keep the historical look and feel. And there’s this massive fireplace that was kind of a centerpiece of the room and we were able to keep that.” Rehkamp Larson Architects was a natural fit for the project. The Minneapolis firm blends historical and modern elements for a clean, timeless look. That approach fit the homeowners’ goals and aesthetic vision. The new home blends rustic and contemporary elements and seamlessly links the re-imagined lodge with the original cabin space and a new two-story addition. The revamped lodge now holds the living area, including a living room, kitchen, dining room, and screened porch. The sleeping rooms are tucked into the other living spaces. The rebuilt
cabin boasts three bedrooms, three-and-ahalf baths and more than 3,000 square feet of living space. That’s plenty of room to host friends and family, both now and well into the future. Many projects that include existing structures may require a little troubleshooting. Spitzack Builders project manager Jason Strom says that this home was no exception. He and his crew soon discovered the fireplace the homeowners loved and wanted to build their new home around came with a major complication. “We demoed everything around the fireplace – and then we found out that there was no foundation for the fireplace,” Strom explains. “The whole thing was being supported by the original structure. So we basically had to build the foundation. That wasn’t something that we anticipated on the front end.”
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“We wanted to keep the position of the lodge in place, because it sits close to the lake. We wanted to keep the historical look and feel. And there’s this massive fireplace that was kind of a centerpiece of the room and we were able to keep that.” HOMEOWNER
Brian Shephard and the crew at Northern Masonry and Custom Stone Work in Pequot Lakes stepped in to help create a solution. While this problem was unique, Strom says it’s pretty common for owners of historical Minnesota lake houses to open up a wall and come face to face with the remnants of the previous owner’s DIY efforts. “You had a lot of people who were doing stuff on their own,” he says. “You never really know what you’re going to get into when you’re tearing into an old lake home or a cabin. A lot of stuff wasn’t built for code. There weren’t inspectors in the area to keep people on the right track.” Thankfully, modern homeowners can turn to the professionals. Even if you’re doing part of a project yourself, Strom recommends bringing in a
project manager or general contractor early in the process to avoid potential issues and added costs down the road. He cites this home’s heated floors as an excellent example of how a little advance planning can make the construction process run as smoothly as possible. “The home’s got in-floor heat in the porch and the entryway and the lower level. There’s two furnaces that service the house. That all had to be coordinated before we ordered trusses,” he explains. “You can build the most beautiful place in the world, but if you can’t get heating and cooling and plumbing to accommodate it, it’s kind of irrelevant. A lot of people think ‘Let’s get an architect to draw it and cut someone loose.’ But it’s not that simple, especially on a complex house like this one.”
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After briefly considering flagstone, the homeowners decided on polished concrete floors. It was another Northern Masonry project. It was a choice that solidified the look of the home. “We didn’t want to have too many different material choices going on,” the homeowner explains. “The fireplace was made out of rock. Once we decided we wanted concrete floors, we came to that combination of stone, concrete, wood and steel – and a lot of glass.” This focused interplay between natural elements like wood and stone and steel glass and steel ties the home together, both inside and out. A metal roof by Herzog Roofing of Detroit Lakes mixes with the rough-hewn stone patio by Northern Masonry and Custom Stone Work which echoes the stone steps down to the water. Lake facing windows by The H Window Company LLC out of Wisconsin bring views of the water and the yard’s mature trees into the home. The interior is similarly focused. The blend of wood, stone metal and glass create a unique look where traditional North Wood materials are reimagined in a comfortably minimalistic way.
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The couple pulled ideas from their previous cabin into the interior design of the new one. That gives the family a sense of continuity and makes the space feel like home. “Red has kind of always been our accent color at the cabin, for whatever reason,” the homeowner says. “Whether it’s Swedishlooking candles or a red door or a pillow here or there.”
This striking red is woven throughout the home. It pops up on doors, on chairs, in the patio furniture. It’s featured in the bathroom and kitchen cabinets. It’s pulled through both the plaid chairs clustered around the kitchen island and the island itself, which was intentionally designed to allow seating on every side.
“My wife has Swedish ancestry,” says the homeowner. “We’ve always kind of liked the Scandinavian look and feel, the idea of the light wood. The original cabin had a lot of wood paneling and wood siding which we generally liked. We like the simplicity of how pine looks.” The majority of the wood in the home is pine. The dramatic wood and steel staircase is made of Douglas fir. So are the beams in the great room. “We could have built this place without any beams, but I prefer this look,” says the homeowner. “It would have been a lot easier to build this with artificial beams, but I want to look up and see that the roof structures are actually doing the job they were designed to do.” This was another decision made during the construction process. But it was a simple adjustment. “The carpenters at Spitzack, they hand-cut and hand-assembled these beams right on-site and really did a nice job,” says the homeowner. “And they had to do that while working around the fireplace.”
“The carpenters at Spitzack, they hand-cut and handassembled these beams right on-site and really did a nice job. And they had to do that while working around the fireplace.” HOMEOWNER
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A fully functional, multi-purpose kitchen island is just one of the conveniences that makes life easier for the homeowners. One of the family’s favorite features – the coffee drawer – is tucked just out of sight. “You just pull out the drawer and there’s everything you need,” says the homeowner. “There’s your coffee mug, your tea, your coffee filters. Everything’s right there.” The home features numerous built-ins for easy and attractive storage. The ones in the entry get a lot of use. “Shoes and jackets and dog leashes all that kind of stuff can kind of get piled up,” says the homeowner. “But we have a lot of built-ins to keep it somewhat organized.” The addition of the screened porch and larger indoor rooms means that the family can spend more time together beyond the busy summer season. Now the house is bustling all year long.
“We inherited some furniture that dates back to the camp. There’s this series of tables and benches. The dining room table is a camp dining room table. There’s a table in the hallway that’s a camp table. It just maintains the history and originality of the property.” HOMEOWNER
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CouLDn’t have done it without: Spitzack Builders
| BUILDER,
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Northland Lumber
| BUILDING MATERIALS
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Lampert Cabinets | CABINETS Rehkamp Larson | ARCHITECT Expert Insulation | INSULATION Northern Masonry
| MASONRY
Supreme Countertops
| COUNTERTOPS
Leech Free Heating & Air Conditioning Flow Painting
| PAINTING
Bay Carpet & Flooring Abe’s Plumbing Olson Electric
| FLOORING, TILE WORK
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T&C Excavating
| EXCAVATING
Midwest Security
| SECURITY
Advantage Seamless Gutters “There’s so many different places to sit and gather,” says the homeowner. “The combination of the kitchen, dining room and the small sitting area by the fireplace, that for sure is the centerpiece of the home.”
AJ Glass
This skillful blending of past and present, old and new, is appropriate for a family who has summered here for decades. But it’s also central to the spirit of the house, which has its roots in a much-loved summer camp. The homeowners even found a way to preserve a little summer camp history through the furnishings.
Turf Tech
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Classic Wood Floors North
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Wilkening Fireplace
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“We inherited some furniture that dates back to the camp,” says the homeowner. “There’s this series of tables and benches. The dining room table is a camp dining room table. There’s a table in the hallway that’s a camp table. It just maintains the history and originality of the property.” ~L&H
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INSULATION
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MASONRY
WINDOW TREATMENTS
ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR
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LANDSCAPING
CONSTRUCTION
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LAKE GIFTS
CREATIVE TOUCH BOUTIQUE 320-762-8786 | 516 Broadway St, Alexandria, MN
We are a boutique store in downtown Alexandria, which carries home décor, gifts, and clothing. We specialize in women’s clothing with an emphasis on being cute, comfortable, and affordable. One whole section of the store is devoted to Minnesota clothing. Here you’ll find T-shirts, sweatshirts and hats for both men and women. Also included in this section are gift items and home décor with a lake theme, which includes personalized lake signs, lake map jar candles, cribbage boards, beer glasses, and coffee mugs. You will also find hundreds of signs with many featuring lake sayings. Follow us on both Facebook and Instagram. The store is open year-round, seven days a week, right in the middle of the bustling downtown Alexandria shopping district!
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MAINSTREAM BOUTIQUE 833 Washington Ave | Detroit Lakes, MN 218-844-4990 Hours: M-F 10-5 | Sat 10-4 | Sun Closed
Established in 2014 as a women’s boutique, we strive to empower and encourage women to embrace their inner beauty. We believe and educate on the power of self-esteem and help women find styles that flatter their shape and fit their lifestyle. With new fashion arriving daily we know that women want to see fresh styles both online and in the store. Mainstream works with vendors who are exclusive to our stores. We pride ourselves on finding apparel markets that are as unique as the women we serve. We cover sizes xsm-xlg in an affordable price range. Mainstream Boutique carries fashion from casual lake wear to a fun evening out. Customers also love to shop our shoes, scarves, purses, greeting cards, gifts and jewelry including the popular Brighton line of jewelry. We sell online through our Facebook page of Mainstream Boutique-Detroit Lakes and on Instagram mainstreamdetroitlakes.
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MARCELLA ROSE
WWW.NOTTINGHILLDESIGNS.US
218-290-4599 | Marcella@MarcellaRose.Com Shop online: MarcellaRose.com
Notting Hill Designs
“Throughout the ages, artists have incorporated gold in paintings and on sculptures destined for devotional use. Marcella Rose has incorporated gold leaf in a number of her images, stemming from her deep belief that time spent in nature has the same reflective, intimate and healing effect as time spent in a temple, church or other sacred place.” ~ Tania Blanich, Director of Operations, The Arts Partnership Marcella’s inspirational fine art encompasses original oil paintings, bronze sculptures, sculpted sterling jewelry—and archival limited-edition gicleé prints. Whatever your budget, check out her evolving online ‘bargain bin’ at MarcellaRose.com. Set up a private gallery appointment in Pelican Rapids to shop available art, or to commission an original painting to enhance your home or office environment. Marcella can help you decide what is the best size, emotional feeling, or family heirloom to grace yourself with beautiful art.
a Great Gift for... Our love for the water goes back many generations. Whether the lake, river or ocean, our family has always been drawn to activities on the water. Notting Hill Designs is a father and son business we started after creating a wood map for a family member. We saw a need for quality wood map designs that were also reasonably priced. We love working with wood and creating unique, quality designs with laser cutting/engraving machines. Our goal is to provide our clients with a quality, personalized design they will treasure in their homes forever. Nothing makes us more proud than to hear from a satisfied customer who absolutely loves their design. We can make any lake, river, or coastline into a beautiful, personalized wood map. Special touches such as adding personalization like a family name, a home location, or a particular detail make the map personal to you. Many of our clients give the maps as gifts for housewarmings, thank you gifts, birthdays, and even 5th anniversaries. Prices range from $97-$189. Let us create a special keepsake for your home!
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DOT & MINNIE’S AND LEVEL III
OTTER COFFEE AND ICE CREAM
dotandminnies.com | leveliiiboutique.com 148 1st Ave S | Perham, MN 56573 | 218-346-4180
117 E Main St, Vergas, MN 56587 218-342-4702 | www.ottercoffeevergas
Dot & Minnie’s is a true boutique—a collection of unique clothing lines you’d be hard-pressed to find together anywhere else, but will find in downtown Perham! What you will find is a wide range of classic styles, from reserved to edgy... and the funky jewelry to go with them! Not quite your style? Try our sister store across the street, Level iii. There we stock trendy styles in an industrial setting. Whatever your style, we have something for you! Most of our styles are available for purchase from our extensive websites, dotandminnies.com and leveliiiboutique.com. Shop by type of item or by brand; have it shipped, or held for pickup! Need additional information on an item? Email or call and you’ll have your answer within 24 hours—we try on more for customers than for ourselves!
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Otter Coffee Vergas is more than a coffee shop—it is an Otter Tail County experience! Enjoy several products from throughout Otter Tail County. Fresh Stumbeano’s coffee, scones and muffins and Fresh Bread Fridays-from Falls Baking Company, honey, raspberry syrup, maple syrup, local jelly, and wild rice. You can treat yourself to ice cream, milk shakes, and smoothies. When it’s time to relax, join us on our private patio for a glass of wine and charcuterie tray. Browse the local art and jewelry. Need a hostess gift? Everyone loves a taste of Otter Tail! Gift baskets and coffee are all available online and can be shipped. Dogs are welcome and “puppachinos” are our specialty! Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for up-to-date activities and specials. Otter Coffee has the “Best Milk Shakes” in Otter Tail county! We ship custom gift baskets- Let us help you with holiday shopping! Open 7 days a week! Take out/curbside delivery available, call ahead 218-342-4702
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THE WILLIAMS COMPANY STORE 101 West Main Street | Ottertail, MN 218-367-3340 www.thewilliamscompanystore.com
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MITRED CORNERS 409 W Stanton Ave | Fergus Falls, MN 218-998-4147 | mitredcorners.com Open Tuesday - Friday 10-6 and Saturday 9-12
The Williams Company store is located in historic downtown Ottertail, Minn. Vacationers and local members of our community are drawn to our historic building and find themselves returning to the store for our unique gift selections & outdoor seating! We offer fantastic espresso drinks and amazing deli food along with beer & wine. Don’t forget the ice cream too! Bring your friends and family to the shop when you’re in town and enjoy our friendly staff and small town charm. We look forward to seeing you! — Dan & Marnie Whitehead, Owners
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. Mitred Corners, Fergus Falls-the shop you will be glad you stopped. Beyond The Mitred Corners is a locally owned and operated custom framing and gift shop. Lisa & Doug Anderson, owners, will help you with a personal touch. They will assist you every step of the way with all of your framing needs.
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GREY DUCK OF OTTERTAIL 231 Hwy 78 Suite D | Ottertail, MN 56571 Register at www.facebook.com/greyduckofottertail Step into a Creative World of Home Decor and Holiday Inspiration Stop in for the Gnome for the Holidays Event Nov 13 - 14 and get yourself in to the holiday spirit. Great Selection of Rae Dunn Collection of fun whimsical kitchen decor. Add some sparkle to your home decor with fun holiday classes for everyone.
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NEW YORK MILLS REGIONAL CULTURAL CENTER 24 N Main Ave | New York Mills, MN 56567 218-385-3339 | www.kulcher.org Open Wednesday & Thursday 10am - 6pm Friday 10am - 5pm & Saturday 10am - 3pm
HOLIDAY CLASSES: Deer Class.................................Nov 5............ $30 Gnome Trees Class ...........Nov. 12......... $30 Welcome Sign Class.........Nov. 19......... $50 Home for the Holidays Banner .........................................Dec 3............ $30 T-shirt Class ............................Dec 10......... $30 Tag Class....................................Dec 17.......... $30 Towel Class...............................Jan 7............. $20
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Shop local and support local artists! Unique gifts from over 100 regional artists: jewelry, cards, ceramics, fabric arts and much more. Including Finnish candies, coffee and iittala glassware. Special Artist Bazaar November 18th - 21st featuring local artists. Multidisciplinary rural art center; venue for literary, performing, and visual arts, retail gift shop; sculpture park, artist residency program. Check our website or Facebook page for more information.
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VALLEY HARDWOOD SUPPLY Family Owned & Operated 900 Center Ave W., Dilworth, MN 56529 218-233-8020 | ValleyHardwoodSupply.com
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HEIM-MADE APPAREL heimmade@paulbunyan.net 218-647-8373 18582 Battle River Rd. NE Kelliher, MN 56650
Live Edge Slabs | Custom Woodworking Stop by our convenient location along Hwy 10 in Dilworth. Give that unique gift for someone special from Valley Hardwood Supply. Choose from a wide variety of beautiful selections of domestic and exotic hardwoods. Check out our charcuterie boards for those holiday get togethers. Need a signature piece for your home? Let us give you a quote.
Heim-made is a mother/daughter business that grew up in Northern Minnesota. They design/make their own collection of unique, high quality women’s cold weather apparel, accessories, and gifts. They thoughtfully and cleverly design each piece to meet the challenges of the cold weather the girls have experienced first hand, but just as important to them is that their clothing is fashionable and fun to wear. Expect to find details in their designs that will delight! The heim-made line includes down insulated items such as: the reversible minne-skirt (they refer to it as a “jacket for your butt”); a matching down hooded jacket with built in mitts; a long down vest with zip open pleat in the back. You will also find: merino wool shirts and tunics; buffalo plaid and winter leggings; a line of faux fur; designer hats; and hand felted beer and wine insulators. Check them out on line, where you will also find their show list for next year (none this year due to Covid), and where you can sign up for their newsletter to be the first to hear heim-made news and find good deals. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram. Sign up for our newsletter at heimmade.com
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FEATURED LAKE
Sunfishes are abundant in Lake Latoka, particularly bluegills and pumpkinseed sunfish. Due to their excessive abundance, bluegill growth is too slow to optimize fishing quality potential. Lake Latoka has the depth and water quality to sustain a cisco population. Cisco, commonly called tullibees, is a coldwater fish intolerant of water temperatures exceeding 70 degrees F. Lake Latoka becomes thermally stratified during summer months. The thermocline was detected below 30 feet at time of the 2015 survey. There proved to be sufficient dissolved oxygen and cooler water temperatures at this depth during the summer to provide suitable habitat for the cisco population. Ciscos are considered high fat, high value prey for northern pike and walleyes. They also grow large enough to add to the lake’s overall fishery.
Source: Minnesota Department of Natural Resources
Size: 767 Acres Max Depth: 108 ft. Clarity: 13.5 ft. Shore Length: 8.57 mi
Only 35 percent of the surface area of Lake Latoka is less than 15 feet in depth. This shallow area with sunlight penetration and active aquatic plant growth is considered the most productive area of lakes. Even with modest carrying capacity, Lake Latoka supports a diverse fish community and good fishing opportunities. Lake Latoka is a 767-acre lake located about two miles west of the city of Alexandria. The lake has exceptional water quality. Summer water transparency measurements within the northern portion of the lake average 13.3 feet.
Northern pike are excessively abundant. Large walleye fingerlings and yearlings are stocked to sustain this popular fishery. Walleyes grow well in Lake Latoka and age distribution of gill net captures extended to age 18, so the lake can offer good opportunities to catch large walleyes.
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Anglers are strongly encouraged to harvest the surplus of small northern pike (<21.0 inches) to reduce pike density, release some excessive predatory pressure off the yellow perch population, and increase survival of stocked walleyes. Releasing medium to large fish will ensure that the lake will have enough spawning age fish and should provide anglers with opportunities to catch more large fish in the future. Lake Latoka is designated as an infested waterbody due to the presence of zebra mussels, which were first confirmed in 2014. Regulations restricting bait harvest and transport of water apply to this basin. For more information regarding aquatic invasive species in Minnesota see the following: http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/invasives/ aquatic/index.html
~L&H
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