Custom Builder Steven Streeter has built houses for many nationally known firms, but when it came time to build his own lakeside house, he turned to local favorite PKA Architecture. He and the firm have a long history of collaboration on a variety of projects—some modern, some traditional, and some transitional. They have a comfort level in working with each other, knowing that both the design and execution—no matter what the style—will hit the intended mark.
“When you work with a builder like Steven, you know you need to bring your A game,” says Bob Le Moine, who, with Gabe Keller at PKA, spearheaded the design. “We also saw it as an opportunity to work with some of the best trades.” Indeed, the attention to craft and detail shines through the project—a true hybrid of cottage style and modern design. It’s a deft mix our judges appreciated.
Steven and his family were downsizing from a larger house, but their plan still called for 6,000 square feet and a three-car garage—all on a tight, narrow lot—and they wanted a modest elevation, in keeping with the relaxed neighborhood vibe. So Bob and his team “designed something that has a traditional vernacular, but modern insertions.”
On the exterior, cedar shingles and a steeply pitched roof keep the house contextual, while a more modern flat roof wraps around the house, covering both front and back porches. The front door is a modern blackened-steel-and-glass unit. Inside, the yin and yang of traditional and modern details continues—all beautifully wrought and striking the perfect balance between casual and elegant. “Everyone was allowed the space to do their best,” says Bob.
Citation
PKA Architecture
Cottagewood Beach House
Deephaven, Minnesota
Project Credits
Architect: Gabe Keller, Assoc. AIA, founding principal and designer;
Bob Le Moine, AIA, PKA Architecture, Minneapolis
Builder: Streeter, Wayzata, Minnesota
Interior Designer: Nada Bibi, Nada Bibi Interior Design, Los Angeles
Landscape Architect: Travis Van Liere, TVL Studio, Minneapolis
Custom Finishes: Darril Otto, Otto Painting Design, Chanhassen, Minnesota
Structural Engineer: Christian Soltermann, ALIGN Structural, St. Paul, Minnesota
Project Size: 6,049 square feet
Site Size: 0.27 acre
Construction Cost: Withheld
Photography: Paul Crosby Photography
Key Products
Entry Door: Brombal
Windows/Window Wall Systems: Loewen