SWAN FISH CAMPRustic Living Room, Minneapolis

The contemporary look of bamboo flooring complements gallery-like modern spaces, especially when paired with bold decor choices. Disadvantages of Bamboo Flooring It should be used with caution in humid climates. Bamboo grass readily absorbs water, and therefore bamboo floors may be susceptible to warping from water or excessive humidity. Because of the unpredictable rate of expansion and contraction of the flooring in humid climates, it is critical that homeowners in humid areas carefully monitor their room conditions (temperature and relative humidity) to prevent potential problems. It can scratch. High heels, pet claws, grit, sand or dirt can cause scratches on bamboo floors. Inexpensive bamboo flooring is more susceptible to scratches and dings than a premium product. Being mindful of your flooring and keeping a regular maintenance regime will help extend the life of your floors. It doesn’t work with all decor. If your decor style is not contemporary or spa-like Zen, bamboo flooring may not be the best stylistic fit for your home.

Question 10 has to do with timing. “Do you want to accomplish this all at once or in phases?” If it’s going to be a step-by-step process, your designer will be able to suggest which pieces should be purchased first and which later, so the room will be usable from the beginning.In this smart-looking contemporary great room, for example, phase one could have been the two sofas and the coffee table, and phase two could have been the cowhide chairs and end tables.

Modern furniture tends to be streamlined, with exposed legs that float the piece above the floor, so it doesn’t appear to take up as much space in the room. Imagine how much more crowded this room would feel if all the seating were skirted or extended to the floor.

Swan sees the form as a universal one: "It's a doghouse, a ship vessel, a chapel. It's uplifting and very spiritual," she says. This understanding is evident in the way she kept the living space open to the roof. The sitting room over the kitchen is open to the space, a nice touch that enables people there to look toward the lake (behind us in the photo) and enjoy the grand yet intimate space.

The soothing color palette of the exterior resonates within. The main living spaces were stacked toward the lake with furniture strategically placed to support the great view. The intent was to keep the layout small, intimate and cozy. Pillows: Pottery BarnLeather sofas, sheepskin throws/rug: IKEACowhide chairs: Room & Board

lovet he open floorplan upstairs is super interesting

Like the wood stove placement on dining wall between kitchen and living room.

Bamboo floor style - light color, softer, cheaper and also more durable than hardwood. Looks more natural than laminate floors.

Wood burning stove in open plan dining room