Photos by Spacecrafting
It’s often the little things in life that can make a big difference, and it’s the same when it comes to homes as well. Take the small amount of brick detailing used on the exterior of this new modern two-story home that helps add dimension and beauty for a charming first impression, for example.
Located adjacent to the Gateway State trail and just blocks away from historic downtown Stillwater, the 5,592-square-foot, five-bedroom house was built by Divine Custom Homes for a local couple looking to build their dream home.
“The clients were looking for more space for their kids to grow up in but also somewhere with entertaining capabilities,” explains Jeff Warren, president of Divine Custom Homes. “The house actually sits on two lots that we ended up combining into one, which allowed us to position it to overlook the Stillwater Country Club’s golf course.”
The open-concept main level, which features 10-foot ceilings and expansive windows throughout, encompasses an oversized living room, dining area, and three-season screened porch, complete with floor-to-ceiling windows to maximize the indoor-outdoor connection and a large wood-burning fireplace for cozy nights.
The kitchen, inspired by a photo of celebrity interior designer Athena Calderone’s home in New York, set the tone for the rest of the house. Dark stained cabinets are contrasted by the stunning full-slab backsplash and ledge, while the range’s custom plaster hood is offset to create some playful, yet carefully planned asymmetry.
“The clients had no problem being bold and unique, and they embraced lots of high contrast and unexpected moments,” says Jess Kallman, co-owner of Haven Design Collective, which was brought into the project to oversee the interiors.
Tucked behind the kitchen is a huge walk-through pantry, where plentiful white oak cabinets and multiple appliances (including a coffeemaker, double oven, freezer drawers, and a second sink and dishwasher) create a stylish, yet practical space, while its location just off the porch and exterior door to the backyard make it more than ideal for entertaining.
“The screened porch is my own favorite space since it’s a place we Minnesotans want to use as much as we can after our long winters,” says Haven Design Collective’s other co-owner, Amanda Heinecke. “This particular one has vinyl windows, so hopefully the clients will be able to enjoy it in some of the colder months as well.”
The clients’ appreciation for texture and natural materials shines in the stone countertops, white oak flooring, and custom concrete fireplace surround in the living room. The lower level, which showcases marbled concrete floors and includes an elegant bar and recreation area as well as an in-law suite for Grandma to stay, is dark and moody (the clients had requested a “speakeasy vibe”), as is the upstairs office—another favorite space thanks to its dark grasscloth wallpaper, dark ceiling trim, and stunning views to the surrounding property.
“The entire house is elevated, so all of the upper-level views are incredible,” Warren explains. “It’s rare to be able to build this type and size of home in Stillwater. … You usually have to get out of town for that!”
