Sandhill Residence

The project is a new modern home in an architecturally driven residential community. The clients’ design objectives included a mid-century modern-inspired home to reflect their contemporary lifestyle while creating a profound connection to nature. Design challenges included working within the community design guidelines and respecting the sightlines of the neighboring homes while maximizing the long views of the gentle hills, wetlands and wildlife. The designers responded to the site and the clients’ goals with a modestly scaled home nestled into the prairie to create a walk-out condition and minimize the impact on views from the neighboring homes. The open, loft-like floor plan allows the interiors to blend seamlessly into the lush landscape. Luxe handcrafted tile, hardware and fixtures lend warmth and character to the spaces. Ten-foot ceilings, modern windows and sliding glass doors allow the interiors to live big, while clerestory windows and skylights over the staircase fill the home with natural light and support well-being. To manage energy consumption in Minnesota’s four intense seasons, the designers incorporated sustainable geothermal technology, a solar panel array, Tesla Powerwalls and innovative automated systems to control HVAC, lighting and window treatments. The exterior is clad in resilient brick and durable corrugated metal siding with cedar accents—a nuanced materials palette that reflects the colors and textures of the prairie landscape while honoring the agricultural heritage of the site.