With a love for architecture and an earnest desire to commission just the right team to design their new residence in Buffalo Lake, Minn., homeowners Nancy and Richard Dehmer knew there was no need to look any further upon meeting architect Charles Stinson on an AIA (American Institute of Architects) tour. “We hit it off right away,” Stinson says. Known for his timeless architectural style, and a distinct way of marrying the home and landscape together, Stinson worked with interior designer Kim Streeter and builder Kerry Hage to create this couple’s lakefront retreat.
Beautifully situated on 12 acres of scenic wooded property, the project commenced at ground zero, resulting in a sprawling 6,000-square-foot home that edges the rocky shore of Lake Martha. While Stinson’s signature prairie-style design with a strong modern influence was a success right out of the gate, the owners remained passionately involved every step of the way.
Emphasizing definition and character, the metal slat roof is expressive and the Chilton and Fon Du Lac stone columns — a tailored blend of warm tones and grays — are organic and striking. “They define the floor-to-ceiling glass walls in between,” the architect says. Spanning the entire length of the home and beyond is a deck with an airplane wire railing that creates a floating effect while allowing the house to open up to nature. Inside, Stinson created a flowing space with windows lining the back and a cedar ceiling topping clerestory glass to draw in natural light. Neutral and natural durable materials fill the home, where Streeter carefully selected furnishings to let nature be the main focus.
Echoing all of the natural tones found in the two-sided stone fireplace that is stacked up three stories high, the second-level great room welcomes with a comfortable hearthside social grouping in the living area. “The organic interior palette strikes harmony and balance rather than competing with outside elements,” Streeter says. Textures and finishes with movement were carefully chosen to draw the eye naturally and gently through the space to the dining area, kitchen and captivating lake views beyond. “We wanted one area for living, dining and cooking, a place to get together and to stay together,” Stinson says. Defining the social spaces from above, vertical clear-grain cedar planks with “zero knots” create a flawless and smooth look, while glass railings with maple handrails give way to the spacious lower level.
Maple makes its way into the master suite, where natural display shelving speaks to the overall vibe of the home. The custom bed appears to float center stage, while glass doors slide open to the private balcony beyond. A modern appeal flows into the master bath styled with cedar panels to continue the sense of serenity.
With natural materials throughout the home, rich texture play and the creative use of light, Stinson and Streeter brought this couple’s dream home to life — a year-round retreat filled with the beauty of nature both inside and out.
Story Credits:
Architecture: Charles Stinson, Charles R. Stinson Architecture + Design, Deephaven, MN
Interior Design: Kim Streeter, CRS Interiors, Deephaven, MN
Builder: Kerry Hage, Hage Homes, Minneapolis, MN
Landscape Architecture: Dan Bleeker, Bleeker Landscaping, Andover, MN
Photography: ©Paul Crosby, St. Paul, MN
Text: Regina Kaylie
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