Was featured as a Dream Home on the 2019 Spring Parade of Homes

Built on a smaller Minneapolis lot, this home was designed for empty nesters who wanted to stay in the city and create a home they could enjoy now and comfortably age in for years to come. There wasn’t enough room on the property for a main-floor primary suite, so an elevator became an important part of the design, allowing the home to live easily across multiple levels without sacrificing the spaces the homeowners wanted.

The design also brought together two homeowners with very different styles. Rather than choosing one over the other, the home blends clean, contemporary lines with warmer, more traditional elements. The kitchen captures that balance especially well. Dramatic stone wraps the large waterfall island and continues behind the range, while warm wood cabinetry, crisp white cabinetry and dark wood floors keep the modern architecture from feeling cold. A raised seating area at the island creates another comfortable place to gather.

A dramatic fireplace anchors the living space, while a dedicated area for the homeowners’ baby grand piano makes music part of the architecture rather than an afterthought. Large windows and an open floor plan bring natural light throughout the home while still creating distinct places to live, work and entertain.

The connection to the outdoors was equally important. A screened porch with Phantom Screens opens directly to a large patio, creating an indoor-outdoor entertaining space that can change with the season. It’s just as comfortable for an afternoon relaxing outside as it is when the house is full of family and friends.

This home is a great example of how aging in place doesn’t require a main-floor primary suite or a large lot. With an elevator, thoughtful planning and spaces designed around how the homeowners actually live, we were able to create a city home that works beautifully today while giving them flexibility and confidence for the future.