Photos by Spacecrafting
What do you call a ranch home that’s more than one level? Or a farmhouse-style residence that goes beyond its shopworn trademarks? Greg and Karen Narr suggest calling it “transitional ranch”—and they recently built one on 11 bucolic acres five minutes away from downtown Wayzata.
The husband-and-wife home-building team collaborated with architecture firm Sharratt Design & Company and Liz Merry of interior design shop Willow Home to construct a 4,435-square-foot house aimed at empty nesters. The master suite, with a vaulted ceiling and a master bath connected to its walk-through closet, is sufficient to accommodate any couple looking to downsize or for main-level living.
Still, that doesn’t mean the house can’t host its fair share of friends and family get-togethers. There’s plenty of space in the lower walk-out level and in unfinished rooms above the garage for visiting kids young or old, or even live-in help. The lower level contains two of the home’s four bedrooms, complete with full baths, and the great room has plenty of space for everyone to gather. Besides the built-in bar, the room also features reclaimed barn wood along one wall, softening the overall feel, and a pair of glass doors that provides access to the backyard. “We really wanted the space to be elegant but also livable and comfortable,” explains Karen Narr.
On the main level, 14-foot ceilings soar over the main living space, which opens onto a kitchen with Cambria countertops and Sub-Zero Wolf appliances, as well as a dining area furnished with a unique cerused-finish table. Everywhere there are clean lines and warm and inviting spaces, which really isn’t a surprise considering the exterior’s white siding, cedar beams, and cheery blue front door. White oak floors, wood ceilings, and more reclaimed beams give the interiors distinct character, as does a set of fireplaces clad in Fond du Lac Buff limestone.
A pair of striking glass box pendant lights hangs over the quartz marble island in the kitchen, where things are kept tidy with the help of J&B Woodcrafts cabinetry. Guests can gather there on cushioned stools while someone preps food, or they can settle into a pair of comfortable chairs alongside the room’s gas fireplace. A small office and pantry adjoin the kitchen, and large windows afford views of surrounding foliage. A small private patio outside is sheltered in part by the overhanging eaves of the house as well.
Whether people are indoors or out, the home’s secluded location provides endless days full of peace. “There’s plenty of wildlife and amazing sunset views,” says Greg Narr. And soon, some lucky homeowners will be able to enjoy it all from the comfort of their transitional ranch home.
Home Details
- Builder: Narr Homes
- Home Location: Medina
- Square Footage: 4,435
- Bedrooms: 4
- Bathrooms: 4
- Style: Sophisticated country
Tour this project on Midwest Home‘s Virtual Tour here.
