joyarchitecture.com

Joy Martin, AIA, LEED AP BD+C; Allison Landers; Laura Cayere-King, Assoc. AIA; Kayla Holzhauer

An Artful Retreat

Project Type: Remodel & Addition

Sponsors: Pella, Lelch Audio Video

The client wanted to remodel her 1952 story-and-a-half Edina home to support her new chapter of life: sending a daughter to college, running her successful law firm from a home office, and showcasing her extensive art collection. She sought a home that was colorful, modern, and edgy, while fitting into her neighborhood, and embracing her lush garden, making it easy to watch her dogs, and reducing maintenance.

The architects revised the main level floorplan, bumping out the back of the home and adding a full, new second story. On the main level, the living room was relocated to the back of the house with expansive double sliding-glass doors to connect to the back yard. A new home office was located at the front of the house where the space is cozier and has views of the street. Custom cabinetry was designed to provide storage for every home office need, incorporating beautiful wood and stone finishes. 

The new back entrance includes a mudroom and full bathroom that services all the needs of people and pets alike, with custom crafted built-ins, whimsical wallpaper, and inspired light fixtures that act as functional jewelry for each space. Throughout the home, circulation spaces were utilized to terminate views on original artwork, thoughtfully illuminated, and coordinated with furnishings and accent light fixtures. 

Design elements in the home were inspired by things the client loved: relaxing spa experiences, jewelry design, her collection of paintings and glass art, gemstones, her sweet dogs, hobbies, family, friends, and gardening. The technical method of construction for the home was inspired by energy efficiency, durability, longevity, and quality of craftsmanship.  

Connected spaces from the front to the back of the home allowed the architect to create an open floor plan on the main level and improve the ease of access to the backyard for entertaining and relaxing. On the second floor, both the efficient use of space and thoughtful execution of every detail was considered in creating three bedrooms, a hall bath, and owner’s suite with spa-inspired bathroom.

Maximizing natural light in every room of the home was part of the design teams’ mandate, which created happy spaces for relaxation. Unique elements in the interior were used to highlight moments of art and craft in the home, including rift cut white oak millwork with integrated lighting around niches for art display and large-format tile around the modern gas fireplace. 

The new primary suite has a roomy walk-in steam shower with lighting that can be adjusted for various moods. A cluster of designer glass "melt" pendants with dichroic colors were strategically placed in the upper-level stairwell to invite flecks of light and color to dance around the new Southern window, and coordinating artwork was installed to compliment the lighting.

Sustainable Design Highlights

Durable exterior finishes were an important part of the remodel project. The house is very well insulated and energy efficient. The new roof went above and beyond the standard modern-day energy codes, to help with ice dam prevention and maximize the attic's insulation. New closed-cell spray foam insulation was added, as well as all new and improved windows. We also improved the existing foundation (which had holes and erosion) and added a new mechanical system.

Framework for Design Excellence: Design for Integration

This home lacked views and access to outdoor spaces. The remodel allows the owner and her pets easy access to their outdoor space, which is invaluable for relaxing, gardening, entertaining friends, going for walks, eating outdoors and simply enjoying nature. The office is now separated from the living space, and the upstairs serves as a sanctuary.

This design and the easier interaction with the outdoors creates more steps, more movement, more fresh air, and more sunshine. Natural light now shines throughout the house, improving physiological wellbeing. The remodel also supported the needs of her beloved pets. Pets decrease stress levels, reduce loneliness, and improve mood.

What is the AIA Framework for Design Excellence? Learn more »

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