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PRIVATE LAKE HOME

Project Type: Interior Refresh

Square Footage: 2,300 SF

Location: Minneapolis, MN

 

Photographer: Spacecrafting

Lighting Consultant: Michael Cohen

 

COMING INTO VIEW

This modern loft largely overlooks the ruins of an 1800’s flour mill complex, with glimpses of the Guthrie Theater, I-35W Saint Anthony Falls bridge, the Mississippi River, and the Minneapolis city skyline. With floor to ceiling windows, a setting like this commands an interior design that respects its visual influences.  

 

A couple with existing pets and a baby in their future moved from a rental when they purchased this unit within the same building. While the kitchen had recently been updated, unsightly technology on maple panel shelving lined the walls in four prominent areas.

 

The problematic wall panel areas were quickly addressed. One was removed entirely, another receiving a fresh coat of paint and reconfigured. In the office, replacement shelves and custom desk now coordinate with the nearby kitchen. Most prominently in the living area, recycled wood boards are layered on top, adjacent to the fireplace with a new extended steel surround and the main view of the ruins.    

 

Technology and AV systems were streamlined or hidden. Track lighting was extended and enhanced while the new “Universe” light fixture subtly dots the dining area which occupies the large space without obstructing the view. Furnishings include a combination of existing pieces, with new large scale rugs, family friendly upholstered pieces, and a pair of the iconic Metropolitan armchairs. 

A modern loft with a historic view. A home that's in harmony with its surroundings and occupants. 

2020 Midwest Home “Design Matters: The 2019 ASID MN Interior Design Awards” Jan/Feb

2019 ASID MN Award -Best in Show Residential : "Coming into View"

2019 ASID MN Award- 1st Place -Singular Living Space less than 500sf:"Coming into View"

2018 Midwest Home "Room With An Obstructed View" Nov/Dec

 

Project Type: New Construction Home Square Footage: 4,500 SF

Location: Minnetonka, MN

 

Architect: Sarah Nettleton 

Contractor: Streeter Associates
Photographer: Paul Crosby

 

PRIVATE LAKE HOME

When two strong, independent individuals choose to blend their lives, tastes, and collections in a new home, the whole is greater and infinitely more beautiful than the sum of its parts. Always finding balance, this couple found a perfect lake site, halfway between her city loft and his country home. Continuing a long working relationship, Jodi fully understood her female client’s appreciation for art, color, culture, travel, and adventure. The client once lived in Japan, where she was introduced to shibui, the complex Japanese concept of beauty defined in part by simplicity, understatement, and imperfection. Jodi soon discovered the male client’s love of nature, preference for neutral colors, and appreciation for simplicity and restraint.

 

Like shibui, the interior design of this home is a balance of contrasts with subtle details, quiet colors, and complex textures. Elegant interior waxed plaster walls reflect the surroundings, strategically interrupting the 50 tons of honed bluestone structure. Dark trusses and window frames support the light cedar wood ceiling with its hidden acoustic properties. A custom translucent shoji screen, handmade by a New York shoji master, sits gracefully atop the massive fireplace wall that separates the vaulted main living space from the master suite.

 

Inspired by shibui, this calm, satisfying environment balances simplicity and complexity, allowing the couple to continually discover new meaning and aesthetic value in their home.

 

2015 ASID MN First Place + Merit Award- Multiple Rooms/ Entire Residence

2015 Midwest Home " A Delicate Balance" Sept/Oct

2015 Architecture MN "Homes by Architects Tour - Home #3" Sept/Oct 

2015 Midwest Home "Green Homes on the 2015 Homes by Architects Tour"

 

Project Type: Interior Condo Remodel

Square Footage:  2055 SF

Location:  Minneapolis, MN

 

Architect: MSR Design

Contractor: Branson Builders
Photographer:  Vondelinde, LLC

 

TRAVELER'S HOME BASE

They downsized once, years ago when their kids left home. With full retirement in sight, this adventurous couple was now seeking to “rightsize” and fulfill their [pre-COVID-19] dreams of travel.

Visual redesign goals: Timeless/not overtly trendy, use modern clean lines, feature the fireplace, emphasize city view, and include lighted art walls for an evolving art collection. Functional priorities: add tidy/efficient storage.

 

The space plan was reconfigured by:

1). Opening new doorways through perpendicular walls at windows, thus driving traffic flow towards the view, and sharing daylight between spaces

2). Minimizing awkward interior hallways in favor of convenient storage space

3). Allowing feature walls to take form

4). Creating a back utility area for wine/pantry/laundry functions, shielding work-in-process, and taking advantage of a convenient secondary entrance

5). Changing a closed-off second bedroom to an open Multi-Purpose Space 

 

Results: Appropriately proportioned, the new fireplace is finally something special! The warm Teak wall panels combined with matte European Oak floors breathe new life into the space. Able see the skyline from the bumped-out and cantilevered peninsula, the kitchen aesthetic itself is intentionally minimal. Touch-latch and soft-close features on all enameled cabinet doors/drawers appear streamlined, clean and fresh. Elegant mixed glass backsplash tile adds subtle texture and sheen up close. Unifying these areas, a 1/4” thick, onyx-look porcelain countertop circles the kitchen and pantry, then wraps down to the linear fireplace hearth.

 

Distinctive lighting fixtures emphasize and illuminate the peninsula and dining table as an extension of the fireplace feature wall. Recessed adjustable LED lights line two long art walls. A linear downlight highlights the fireplace to balance the main living area. Two new large format paintings mix with treasured sculptures. Existing dining and living furnishings were pared down, with essentials refreshed and reused. Motorized blinds tucked behind an architectural panel help effortlessly close-up and walk out the door to their next destination.

 

Project Type: Remodel + Addition

Square Footage: 2,200 SF

Location: Edina, MN

 

Architect: Nicolelli Architects

Contractor: Branson Builders
Photographer: Spacecrafting

 

ACCESSIBLE CAPE COD

In a popular neighborhood where older homes often become tear-downs for McMansions, this cozy 1936 Cape Cod had new owners who were big fans of it’s small stature.  After raising a family in a larger, multi-level home on a steep hill a few blocks away, this couple was looking to create a one-level, single-family home they could comfortably live in for years to come.

 

At the request of the clients' long time contractor, the interior designer was initially brought on to look at kitchen remodel plans that were in development. The key to that puzzle: moving the location of one door in the plan. With that we also gained room for a large built-in buffet, 2nd kitchen sink and coffee/breakfast station. 

 

What started as a kitchen renovation grew into an accessible Master Suite addition, and soon nearly all surfaces inside and out had been touched. Elements like a spacious no curb shower with bench, compact soaking tub with seat, and space allocated for possible wheelchair transfer were integrated into the master bath. A laundry closet was added to the main floor adjacent to the walk-through master closet. A sunny study with a barn door off the master bedroom and a new mudroom complete the addition.

 

Throughout the project, careful attention was given to the efficiency, accessibility and adaptability of the layout. Elements like daylighting, sight lines and architectural character were all considered to create a safe and inviting home. Although the homeowners had more square footage in their previous home, they were able to maximize the usability of their new space. This little Cape Cod lives much larger than it appears.

 

Project Type: Remodel
Square Footage: 4,000 SF
Location: Minneapolis, MN

 

Architect: MSR Design
Photographer: Andrea Rugg

 

MODERN LIVING

The homeowners love the prominent location of this penthouse condominium, including its raw character with exposed concrete floors, ceilings and columns, with walls of glass to amazing city views. However, with those features came poor acoustics, lack of evening light and daylight controls. Poorly defined, the wide open living space was not used to its full capacity. The valuable segment of real estate beyond the two columns was not utilized at all.

 

The solution was to add a focal point in the direction of the city skyline. A six foot long linear fireplace with a metal surround indicative of the building character now defines the living area. Surrounding the fireplace are leather wrapped acoustic wall panels in concrete tones, and custom cabinets that match the nearby kitchen. Additional acoustic support comes from the oversized area rug that anchors the multi-directional sofa. The sofa is flexible enough for intimate conversations by the fireplace, to large scale entertaining, or putting on shows with their grandchildren. Supporting furniture is from existing, sentimental pieces restored and re-upholstered. While lighting control is provided by discrete track lighting, and gray motorized shades behind a metal valance. 

 

 

2013 Mpls St Paul HOME, "Winning Design-Modern Living", March

2013 Interior Living TRENDS "On a Clear Afternoon", Col. 28, No. 10 pg 86

2012 ASID MN First Place Award-Living Room

2011 Mpls St Paul HOME "Excellence is in the details", July

 

 

 

Project Type: Remodel

Square Footage: 650 SF

Location: Minneapolis, MN

 

Contractor: Streeter Associates
Photographer: Alyssa Lee

 

MODERN MASTER SUITE

Having completed a Living Room remodel previously, the designer was asked to use similar references in the Master Suite remodel- still suffering from original base building selections. Accustomed to wide open living spaces, and appreciative of how differing areas can be subtly divided without traditional use of walls, the existing master suite layout was further opened so space is now defined by a structural column and mechanical shaft wall. To allow greater circulation space, the soaking tub and dual vanity sink locations were carefully mirrored- especially challenging when retaining exposed concrete floor and plumbing locations. 

 

With accessibility in mind, the shower and toilet room were enlarged but remain tucked in their existing locations. A new bench and hand held shower features were added. The space is enclosed with glass doors featuring a perfectly positioned etched privacy stripe- reminiscent of the suite’s entrance door texture. Custom-cut ultra-thin floor tiles replaced the standard white floor tiles resulting in a minimal floor material transition. Alternating segments of floor to ceiling, matte textured and high gloss wall tiles surround the wet areas of the bath. 

 

A ceiling “ bridge” with recessed LED lights defines the tub area, allows for mechanical systems, and separates the custom dark oak, three-tier master closet in the dressing area. A floating linen cabinet near the shower, vanity cabinet with hidden drawers, and centrally located drop-zone/ charging cabinet with discrete locking drawers provide significantly more functional storage than before.

 

Wall covering at the vanity is reminiscent of the rust and paint on the historic industrial buildings in view. An 18 foot custom steel headboard and oversized graffiti inspired area rug define the sleeping space, with custom bedside tables and sculptural oval LED bedside lamps. Sleek new lounge furniture in the sitting area is accented with local artisan produced floor lamps and tables. Additional lighting control is provided by discrete LED track lighting and motorized shades behind a metal valance. 

 

2015 ASID MN Award- First Place Bedroom Suite " Modern Master Suite"

 

Project Type: Interior Renovation
Square Footage: 4,000 SF
Location: Minneapolis, MN

 

Architect: MSR Design

Contractor: Welch Forsman

Photographer: Wes Glenna

 

MID-CENTURY MODERN

Despite its contemporary appearance, this mid-century modern residence had a traditional organization that included rooms for a maid and a chauffeur. An extensive interior renovation brings the home into the 21st century. The design solution respects the existing aesthetic of this significant work of mid-century modernism—originally designed by University of Minnesota architecture professor Robert Bliss—while incorporating new amenities.

 

The kitchen has been relocated to the former maid’s room, enlarged and reconfigured for multiple cooks. The adjacent sitting area is complete with a fireplace, a TV discretely located in the wall of cabinetry, and a small built-in docking desk overlooking the garden. A new oversized pocket door opening in an existing oak clad wall connects this space to the dining and living rooms.

 

The master bathroom was extended to include a Japanese soaking tub and separate shower with transom window above and marble slab surround. Dual vanity sinks and a stackable washer and dryer were added for convenience.

 

Among the carefully implemented details are the period light fixtures, custom ripple fold window treatments, and terrazzo kitchen floor tiles that match the existing entry hall terrazzo floor. The dining room furniture was restored and re-used. 

 

2014 ASID ICON, "Thoroughly Modern Update", Fall 2014 

2014 ASID Elevate National Award - First Place Residential "Mid-Century Modern"

2013 ASID MN Award - First Place Residential Historic Preservation/Renovation

2012 AIA MN RAVE Award "Mount Curve Modern", July
2012 Star Tribune, "Retro Refreshed", AIA MN/Star Tribune Home of the Month 


 

Project Type: Remodel
Square Footage: 2,200 SF
Location: Minneapolis, MN

Architect: MSR Design

Contractor: Branson Builders
Photographer: Don Wong

 

RIVERFRONT RENOVATION

Soon-to-be empty nesters decided to downsize from their traditional single family home, and to minimize belongings they felt were weighing them down. Intrigued by a historic riverfront loft building, the existing space was far too busy for their desired palette, and they weren’t sure if the 2,200 square feet would feel large enough. Inspired by trips to Italy where sleek modern interior elements are inserted into historic buildings, they moved forward with an extensive re-design plan keeping only the authentic graffiti wall in tact.

 

A layer of faux paint was sand blasted away to reveal the original concrete columns; and a crisp, fresh coat of paint was applied to ceiling and walls. The existing maple floors were stripped of their golden hue, patched and whitewashed. The living area custom rug reflects textures and colors found in the graffiti wall. It also defines space, and provides acoustic support in the open plan. Two sleek sofas and a full-length window wall bench provide ample opportunities to enjoy the view. The custom sofa table converts to a dining table for rare formal entertaining occasions.

 

The highly functional, sleek new kitchen can fade away, thereby visually extending the apparent size of the living space. It features a 14’ long island that can seat up to 8 for casual dining, and has a flush induction cooktop positioned behind the column. The kitchen faucet is fully concealed when the glass front upper cabinets are closed.

 

 The unconventional entry had a multitude of pipes and conduit now disguised with an artistic pierced overhead panel, also inspired by the graffiti wall. The panel wraps down to form a door, closing off the private areas of the unit. 

 

2014 AIA MN Rave Award Mpls St. Paul Home, Riverfront Renovation
2014 ASID MN Award - Second Place Multiple Rooms/Entire Residence 

Project Type: Interior Remodel
Square Footage: 5,550 SF
Location: Minnetonka, MN

Contractor: Welch Forsman
Photographer: Alyssa Lee

Lighting Consultant: Michael Cohen

 

HAPPY HOUSE

While on their search, the homeowners stressed the importance that their new home be warm and welcoming. No one could believe they were interested in this cold, over stylized, home with architectural details that were less than timeless or inviting. They fell in love with the natural daylight and the general layout of the space, and brought in Jodi Gillespie Interior Design to figure out the rest.

 

Able to see beyond the surface, the designers’ plan eliminated unnecessary and dated architectural details to be gallery-like - where the homeowners’ existing heirloom furniture and art are showcased.

The sunken living room’s floor was raised for improved safety and adjusted door openings for better circulation while entertaining. The wood floors were installed in three different directions throughout the main living to subtly reinforce the existing architectural angles.

 

Minimal LED cable lights span the vaulted living area replacing the serpentine soffit that housed the previous lighting sources, but blocked views out the arched windows. A majority of the existing kitchen cabinets remained with a fresh coat of paint.The new countertops wrap up the backsplash and waterfall over an extended island which easily updated the kitchen. Fresh carpet and paint did wonders for the master bedroom. 

2016 ASID MN Award- Second Place Multiple Rooms / Entire Residence under 1000 SF - " Living"

Project Type: Interior Remodel
Square Footage: 2,600 SF
Location: Minneapolis, MN

Architect: MSR Design
Photographer: Susan Gilmore

 

LOFTY TRADITION

The homeowners reluctantly decided to move from their beloved four-floor, traditional single family home to a new one level condominium because of recurring health related issues. At once excited about the building conveniences and views from expansive windows, they were adamant about blending in the traditional character they also cherished.

It was important for them to have some visual separation and definition between the spaces, but not entirely compartmentalize the smaller home. The resultant design uses character features to both blend aesthetics and feel open without sacrificing a sense of privacy.

 

The kitchen area is defined by a modern structural column, large traditional island, and two narrow feature art walls appearing to support the building required dropped ceiling. Careful furniture placement amidst the additional columns and existing rugs further define the spaces without walls. 

 

 A third framed art wall invites one to the master suite. Utilizing the existing master bath vanity and top, additional full-height cabinet storage and character was added with traditional tiles, claw foot tub and related fix- tures. While the existing yellow maple floors were stripped and stained a dark color, nicely contrasting with the white painted woodwork details.

 

Only the existing art, rugs, light fixtures, furniture and accessory pieces that had a meaningful story behind their acquisition were re-used along with new furnishings that better fit in the smaller space. A blend of iconic modern pieces are mixed with traditional and transitional items forming just the right aesthetic fusion. 

Project Type: Interior Build Out
Square Footage: 3,200 SF
Location: Minneapolis, MN

Architect: MSR Design

Contractor: Streeter Associates
Photographer: Wes Glenna

 

RIVERFRONT VISTAS

This top floor unit of a newer residential tower centers on a dramatic view of downtown, while allowing peripheral views of the Mississippi River. The client wanted open living space with enhanced views to feature both the city and the river as part of the living experience.

 

 Floating waxed Venetian plaster ceiling planes were installed at key view corridors to draw attention to the scenic riverfront vistas, and at the same time reflect the lights of downtown. Protruding dark wood frames surround windows and area thresholds to bring focus to the views, yet conceal the motorized window shades. The exposed concrete structural walls and stained gray cabinetry juxtapose with the warmth of the end grain Hemlock wood floors and Teak wood accents. 

 

The interior materials, furnishings and detailing draw on the sophisticated nuance of textures, tones, and layering in handmade papers the client procured on a particularly inspirational trip to Bhutan. Careful placement of the client’s existing modern upholstery, custom coffee tables and rug reinforce the architecture and sightlines. While the client’s large collection of traditional art tells the history of the area and the riverfront. 

 

2014 SOLD for approximately $900 per square foot Star Tribune Article 

2013 Mpls St. Paul Home,”Winning Design-Riverfront Vistas”, March

2012 TRENDS Magazine Award Top 50 American Bathrooms-Serene Touch

2012 TRENDS Magazine Award Top 50 American Kitchens-Polished Lines

2012 ASID MN Award - First Place Residential Multiple Rooms/Entire Residence

2011 Bathroom TRENDS, “Serene Touch”, Vol. 27, No. 3

2011 Kitchen TRENDS, “Polished Lines”, Vol. 27, No. 5

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Project Type: Original Conversion
Square Footage: 3,500 SF
Location: Minneapolis, MN

Architect: MSR Design
Photographer: George Heinrich

 

MILL CITY LOFT 

An active, retired couple sought an accessible, adaptable loft space on the Minneapolis riverfront that would accommodate their passion for art and regional history, and their casual style of living and entertaining.

     

An original conversion in the renovated 1880s Washburn A Mill Utility Building, this loft explores themes of everyday domesticity while accentuating the utilitarian aesthetics of the historic building. The design reflects the spaces’ original function as a women’s-only floor for sewing flour sacks. Design inspiration includes Shaker simplicity and a Main Street hardware store pragmatic.  

 

Virtually all of the rooms have access to natural daylight, which is filtered through motorized draperies. Common textured glass in the interior spaces borrow light to aid the client’s Seasonal Affective Disorder.  The extensive use of Douglas Fir warms the space. A sprung floor system (similar to those in dance studios or gymnasiums) throughout allows for comfort underfoot, while a New Mat acoustical ceiling system maintains comfortable levels of sound in the wide open spaces. Runtal radiators virtually cover one window in the master bath, providing both warmth and a degree of visual privacy.  

 

The loft is designed with numerous thoughtful, though not obvious, universal design features, allowing for ease of use and long term self-reliance. 

2014 SOLD for approximately $1000 per square foot Star Tribune Article

2011 Dream Kitchens and Baths, "industrial Strength", Summer

2009 Perspectives On Design Minnesota, Chapter 4 "Elements of Design"

2006 Star Tribune, "Milled for Retirees", May 6 for AIA MN/Star Tribune Home of the Month Feature

2006 Beautiful Baths, "Sheer Strength", Fall

2005 Pioneer Press, "Washburn Lofts", August 6

2004 ASID MN Award - First Place Residential Multiple Spaces

 

 

 

 

 

 

Project Type: Renovation

Square Footage: 1,763 SF

Location: Minneapolis, MN

 

Contractor: Welch Forsman
Photographer: Alyssa Lee

 

The goals for updating this historic residential loft building common areas included turning the drab, under utilized ‘party’ room into an area the residents can functionally and comfortably share, updating the failing elevator cab interiors, and refreshing the long corridor and entry vestibule sequence to guest parking.

 

The party room, with a column centrally located, was seemingly divided into 4 equal quadrants with glass doors on one end, and glass windows on the opposite end.  In order to create a more “cozy” lounge space, a secondary set of glass doors were removed. A new off-center, 100” linear fireplace added an anchoring focal point finished in a corten steel found in many of the original building materials and throughout the historic neighborhood.  On either side of the fireplace are benches with acoustic panels above and period art lights to showcase a newly implemented art rotation program. 

 

A custom area rug was added to anchor lounge space. The dining table and high-top tables are comprised of multiple smaller tables which allows the residents flexibility to split them apart for their various clubs, association meetings, parties, and daily individual use.   

 

The lower level corridor was updated with new carpet tiles that mask the heavy use by residents, guests and steady stream of contractors.  Limited but meaningful accents were added to the corridor to help with way finding.  A custom made ‘Eventually’ sign references a similar sign that was on top of the building in the early 1900’s.  The large scale light fixture at the corridor intersection alludes to a ghost of milling equipment of the past. 

2016  ASID MN Judges Merit Award: Custom Design Object / Detail - Transformative Reuse of Historical Element - "Eventually"

 

 

LOFT COMMONS

MODERN MILL

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