Perched on a ridge 20 feet above a private lake in Stillwater, Minnesota, the clients wanted an age-in-place home where strong design influenced by the natural surroundings informed the space and shape of the project. CITYDESKSTUDIO carefully sited the home in one of the many natural clearings within their wooded property alongside a private lake, maximizing connection to the land, while preserving trees and natural topography. The home is distinguished by a light-filled, vaulted living area, a continuous timber loggia forming the entry court and connection to the garage, and a landscape design filled with rain gardens and indigenous rocks and plantings. The home features one-level living with a walk-out lower level which maintains a low profile upon approach, allowing the home to fit gracefully within its context. Sustainable features include landscaping with rain gardens to control rainwater, thermal mass concrete, geothermal in-floor heating, and a 10 kilowatt photovoltaic array with home batteries to allow fully off-grid living. Locally sourced building materials were used where possible for cedar siding and patio paving, including re-used soapstone counters. Select trees were harvested directly off the land for the staircase, interior wall finishes and the 10-foot dining table. Project Team: Ben Awes AIA, Principal-In-Charge

Situated on one of the most prestigious streets in the distinguished neighborhood of Highland Park, 3517 Beverly is a transitional residence built by Robert Elliott Custom Homes. Designed by notable architect David Stocker of Stocker Hoesterey Montenegro, the 3-story, 5-bedroom and 6-bathroom residence is characterized by ample living space and signature high-end finishes. An expansive driveway on the oversized lot leads to an entrance with a courtyard fountain and glass pane front doors. The first floor features two living areas — each with its own fireplace and exposed wood beams — with one adjacent to a bar area. The kitchen is a convenient and elegant entertaining space with large marble countertops, a waterfall island and dual sinks. Beautifully tiled bathrooms are found throughout the home and have soaking tubs and walk-in showers. On the second floor, light filters through oversized windows into the bedrooms and bathrooms, and on the third floor, there is additional space for a sizable game room. There is an extensive outdoor living area, accessed via sliding glass doors from the living room, that opens to a patio with cedar ceilings and a fireplace.

Situated on one of the most prestigious streets in the distinguished neighborhood of Highland Park, 3517 Beverly is a transitional residence built by Robert Elliott Custom Homes. Designed by notable architect David Stocker of Stocker Hoesterey Montenegro, the 3-story, 5-bedroom and 6-bathroom residence is characterized by ample living space and signature high-end finishes. An expansive driveway on the oversized lot leads to an entrance with a courtyard fountain and glass pane front doors. The first floor features two living areas — each with its own fireplace and exposed wood beams — with one adjacent to a bar area. The kitchen is a convenient and elegant entertaining space with large marble countertops, a waterfall island and dual sinks. Beautifully tiled bathrooms are found throughout the home and have soaking tubs and walk-in showers. On the second floor, light filters through oversized windows into the bedrooms and bathrooms, and on the third floor, there is additional space for a sizable game room. There is an extensive outdoor living area, accessed via sliding glass doors from the living room, that opens to a patio with cedar ceilings and a fireplace.

Builder: J. Peterson Homes Interior Designer: Francesca Owens Photographers: Ashley Avila Photography, Bill Hebert, & FulView Capped by a picturesque double chimney and distinguished by its distinctive roof lines and patterned brick, stone and siding, Rookwood draws inspiration from Tudor and Shingle styles, two of the world’s most enduring architectural forms. Popular from about 1890 through 1940, Tudor is characterized by steeply pitched roofs, massive chimneys, tall narrow casement windows and decorative half-timbering. Shingle’s hallmarks include shingled walls, an asymmetrical façade, intersecting cross gables and extensive porches. A masterpiece of wood and stone, there is nothing ordinary about Rookwood, which combines the best of both worlds. Once inside the foyer, the 3,500-square foot main level opens with a 27-foot central living room with natural fireplace. Nearby is a large kitchen featuring an extended island, hearth room and butler’s pantry with an adjacent formal dining space near the front of the house. Also featured is a sun room and spacious study, both perfect for relaxing, as well as two nearby garages that add up to almost 1,500 square foot of space. A large master suite with bath and walk-in closet which dominates the 2,700-square foot second level which also includes three additional family bedrooms, a convenient laundry and a flexible 580-square-foot bonus space. Downstairs, the lower level boasts approximately 1,000 more square feet of finished space, including a recreation room, guest suite and additional storage.

If you can't fix it, feature it. We were stuck with a narrow area/short hallway leading into the dining room, which wound up being the perfect depth for a hutch. Glass front panels and a different style of hardware help distinguish the hutch from the rest of the cabinets. It has the character of a furniture item, without appearing too random. Photography by Schweitzer Creative

Property Marketed by Hudson Place Realty - The wait is over for this singular 2960 sq. ft. corner penthouse in the Historic Jefferson Trust Bank building. The one of a kind architectural elements featured in this circa 1900 beauty include a 23 ft. ceiling graced with the original 20’ x 20’ stained glass back lit skylight, the restored Jefferson Trust Bank clock, ornate plaster moldings, and the stunning original wrought iron window grates. Flawlessly designed, the space at 313 First Street offers a classic aesthetic with ultra modern amenities. Choose the elevator with direct keyed access into your home or enter through your private foyer into the lavish 46.7’ x 30.7’ sq. ft. great room. The kitchen is open yet set back from the living/entertaining space and distinguished by a semi-circular ceiling. Top-of the line appliances include; gas Viking 6 burner range The master suite features a large private spa bath and many closets. A dramatic mezzanine level spans the entire length of your home and overlooks the vast living area. With a 2nd bedroom, media room and full bath the mezzanine level is the perfect urban sanctuary. 2 garage parking spots are included in the price and an A+ Path friendly location

Handcrafted from high-quality solid mahogany, this door features a classic French design, characterized by elegant curves and intricate details that exude timeless sophistication. Equipped with impact-resistant glass and a three-point locking system, this door is located in Lauderdale-by-the-Sea, Florida. Beyond its stunning aesthetic, this door offers uncompromising performance. Engineered as a certified hurricane impact door, it provides robust protection for residential estates and elegant commercial settings alike. Security is paramount, delivered by a high-performance 3 Point Lock System featuring the distinguished Amalfi Lever. Choose this door not just for an entrance, but for a commanding first impression that blends enduring beauty with modern, durable security.

With Old World charm, this house plan features stone and cedar shake with stylish dormers. Inside, the gathering rooms are open to each other, individually distinguished by columns and ceiling treatments. The breakfast nook includes two pantries, and a cook-top island completes the kitchen. Upstairs, a bonus room awaits expansion.

Master baths are the holy grail of bathrooms. Connected to the master bedroom or master suite, master baths are where you go all-out in designing your bathroom. It’s for you, the master of the home, after all. Common master bathroom features include double vanities, stand-alone bathtubs and showers, and occasionally even toilet areas separated by a door. These options are great if you need the additional space for two people getting ready in the morning. Speaking of space, master baths are typically large and spacious, adding to the luxurious feel. The primary bathroom is distinguished by its proximity to and sole use by the primary bedroom. Some primary bedrooms will feature two complete bathrooms, one for each of the two primary bedroom residents.

For over 50 years, Troy Lighting has transcended time and redefined handcrafted workmanship with the creation of strikingly eclectic, sophisticated casual lighting fixtures distinguished by their unique human sensibility and characterized by their design and functionality. Features: Suitable for indoor locations only UL certified in compliance with nationally recognized product safety standards Specifications: Included Canopy measures as 5.25"" Diameter x 0.75"" Thick 72in of chain included Requires 6 x 60-Watt E62 Candelabra Base Incandescent Bulbs (not included)

For over 50 years, Troy Lighting has transcended time and redefined handcrafted workmanship with the creation of strikingly eclectic, sophisticated casual lighting fixtures distinguished by their unique human sensibility and characterized by their design and functionality. Features: Suitable for outdoor and indoor locations UL certified in compliance with nationally recognized product safety standards Specifications: Included Canopy measures as 5.5"" Diameter x 1"" Thick 72in of chain included Requires 1 x 60-Watt E26 Medium Base Incandescent Bulb (not included)

For over 50 years, Troy Lighting has transcended time and redefined handcrafted workmanship with the creation of strikingly eclectic, sophisticated casual lighting fixtures distinguished by their unique human sensibility and characterized by their design and functionality. Features: Suitable for indoor locations only UL certified in compliance with nationally recognized product safety standards Specifications: Included Canopy measures as 5.5"" Diameter x 0.75"" Thick 72in of chain included Requires 12 x 40-Watt E12 Candelabra Base Incandescent Bulbs (not included)

For over 50 years, Troy Lighting has transcended time and redefined handcrafted workmanship with the creation of strikingly eclectic, sophisticated casual lighting fixtures distinguished by their unique human sensibility and characterized by their design and functionality. Features: Suitable for indoor locations only UL certified in compliance with nationally recognized product safety standards Specifications: Included Canopy measures as 5.5"" Diameter x 0.75"" Thick 72in of chain included Requires 8 x 60-Watt E26 Medium Base Incandescent Bulbs (Not Included)

The best of the past and present meet in this distinguished design. Custom craftsmanship and distinctive detailing give this lakefront residence its vintage flavor while an open and light-filled floor plan clearly mark it as contemporary. With its interesting shingled roof lines, abundant windows with decorative brackets and welcoming porch, the exterior takes in surrounding views while the interior meets and exceeds contemporary expectations of ease and comfort. The main level features almost 3,000 square feet of open living, from the charming entry with multiple window seats and built-in benches to the central 15 by 22-foot kitchen, 22 by 18-foot living room with fireplace and adjacent dining and a relaxing, almost 300-square-foot screened-in porch. Nearby is a private sitting room and a 14 by 15-foot master bedroom with built-ins and a spa-style double-sink bath with a beautiful barrel-vaulted ceiling. The main level also includes a work room and first floor laundry, while the 2,165-square-foot second level includes three bedroom suites, a loft and a separate 966-square-foot guest quarters with private living area, kitchen and bedroom. Rounding out the offerings is the 1,960-square-foot lower level, where you can rest and recuperate in the sauna after a workout in your nearby exercise room. Also featured is a 21 by 18-family room, a 14 by 17-square-foot home theater, and an 11 by 12-foot guest bedroom suite. Photography: Ashley Avila Photography & Fulview Builder: J. Peterson Homes Interior Design: Vision Interiors by Visbeen

A large circular driveway and serene rock garden welcome visitors to this elegant estate. Classic columns, Shingle and stone distinguish the front exterior, which leads inside through a light-filled entryway. Rear exterior highlights include a natural-style pool, another rock garden and a beautiful, tree-filled lot. Interior spaces are equally beautiful. The large formal living room boasts coved ceiling, abundant windows overlooking the woods beyond, leaded-glass doors and dramatic Old World crown moldings. Not far away, the casual and comfortable family room entices with coffered ceilings and an unusual wood fireplace. Looking for privacy and a place to curl up with a good book? The dramatic library has intricate paneling, handsome beams and a peaked barrel-vaulted ceiling. Other highlights include a spacious master suite, including a large French-style master bath with his-and-hers vanities. Hallways and spaces throughout feature the level of quality generally found in homes of the past, including arched windows, intricately carved moldings and painted walls reminiscent of Old World manors.

For over 50 years, Troy Lighting has transcended time and redefined handcrafted workmanship with the creation of strikingly eclectic, sophisticated casual lighting fixtures distinguished by their unique human sensibility and characterized by their design and functionality. Features: Suitable for outdoor and indoor locations UL certified in compliance with nationally recognized product safety standards Specifications: Included Canopy measures as 5.5"" Diameter x 1"" Thick 1-6"", 2-12"", 1-18"" stem included Requires 3 x 60-Watt E12 Candelabra Base Incandescent Bulbs (not included)

Situated on one of the most prestigious streets in the distinguished neighborhood of Highland Park, 3517 Beverly is a transitional residence built by Robert Elliott Custom Homes. Designed by notable architect David Stocker of Stocker Hoesterey Montenegro, the 3-story, 5-bedroom and 6-bathroom residence is characterized by ample living space and signature high-end finishes. An expansive driveway on the oversized lot leads to an entrance with a courtyard fountain and glass pane front doors. The first floor features two living areas — each with its own fireplace and exposed wood beams — with one adjacent to a bar area. The kitchen is a convenient and elegant entertaining space with large marble countertops, a waterfall island and dual sinks. Beautifully tiled bathrooms are found throughout the home and have soaking tubs and walk-in showers. On the second floor, light filters through oversized windows into the bedrooms and bathrooms, and on the third floor, there is additional space for a sizable game room. There is an extensive outdoor living area, accessed via sliding glass doors from the living room, that opens to a patio with cedar ceilings and a fireplace.

Coral Honeysuckle at Garden in the Woods, the botanic garden of New England Wild Flower Society Photo copyright Ellen Sousa/THBFarm

The beautiful, old barn on this Topsfield estate was at risk of being demolished. Before approaching Mathew Cummings, the homeowner had met with several architects about the structure, and they had all told her that it needed to be torn down. Thankfully, for the sake of the barn and the owner, Cummings Architects has a long and distinguished history of preserving some of the oldest timber framed homes and barns in the U.S. Once the homeowner realized that the barn was not only salvageable, but could be transformed into a new living space that was as utilitarian as it was stunning, the design ideas began flowing fast. In the end, the design came together in a way that met all the family’s needs with all the warmth and style you’d expect in such a venerable, old building. On the ground level of this 200-year old structure, a garage offers ample room for three cars, including one loaded up with kids and groceries. Just off the garage is the mudroom – a large but quaint space with an exposed wood ceiling, custom-built seat with period detailing, and a powder room. The vanity in the powder room features a vanity that was built using salvaged wood and reclaimed bluestone sourced right on the property. Original, exposed timbers frame an expansive, two-story family room that leads, through classic French doors, to a new deck adjacent to the large, open backyard. On the second floor, salvaged barn doors lead to the master suite which features a bright bedroom and bath as well as a custom walk-in closet with his and hers areas separated by a black walnut island. In the master bath, hand-beaded boards surround a claw-foot tub, the perfect place to relax after a long day. In addition, the newly restored and renovated barn features a mid-level exercise studio and a children’s playroom that connects to the main house. From a derelict relic that was slated for demolition to a warmly inviting and beautifully utilitarian living space, this barn has undergone an almost magical transformation to become a beautiful addition and asset to this stately home.