A Minnesota home inspired by East Coast Colonial Revival architecture abounds with custom details and built-in character
“When designing a new lakeside home for repeat clients, Jean Rehkamp Larson of award-winning Minnesota firm Rehkamp Larson Architects sought to capture the grace and symmetry of an old house while ensuring all the comforts of modern living. Collaborating closely with colleague Angela Taffe Wingate, the clients, interior designer Sue Weldon of Harris Weldon Interiors, Streeter Custom Builder, landscape designers Keenan & Sveiven and a team of skilled local artisans, Rehkamp Larson not only achieved that balance but also filled the home with thoughtful, personalized details at every turn.”
Thanks to Houzz for an in-depth story about our project Classic Couture — and for highlighting some of the playful details in this new traditional house. See below for a few of those details.
Secret Dish Cabinet
“One of the home’s playful details: a secret dish cabinet that’s camouflaged in the [dining room] mural when closed. Rehkamp Larson says the clients brought the idea to the table.
“’It really is an Easter egg in this case, with that beautiful pink interior,’” she says.”
Retractable World Map
“Behind the banquette in the dining area hangs a retractable world map: a repeated detail from the previous home project with the clients.
“’While you’re reading the morning newspaper, you can pull down the map and and check on your geography skills,’” Rehkamp Larson says.”
Porthole
“A small brass porthole peeks from the butler’s pantry into a built-in desk on the other side of the wall. Rehkamp Larson says this is another playful detail from the clients’ previous project that they brought back.
“’The homeowners value design and quality craftsmanship, and they trusted the process,” says Jean Rehkamp Larson. “’This brings out the best in everyone — all involved brought their A game. The result is a home that is greater than the sum of its parts.’”