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CommentsTucked-In Tudor
Period architecture perches on Lake Harriet shoreline
By Ruth Paarmann
Photo by Jon Huelskamp, Landmark Photography
“I wanted to do something that was evocative of the nice homes built around the lakes at the turn of the [twentieth] century,” says Charlie Ainsworth, vice president of the custom home division at Charles Cudd Company. The builder and owner shared a vision to make the most of the lake views and natural light. “We also wanted to give the rooms some identity, but keep it free-flowing with open communication between the rooms,” he says.
Classic stucco, stone facing, and copper roofing distinguish the home’s exterior, while dramatic landscaping brightens the front yard. Arched balconies enhance the owners’ suite and attic.
The full-arch front door directs guests into the heart of the main level, where dining room, great room, and kitchen meet. In the dining and great rooms, butternut paneling, molding, and beams lend a rich auburn glow. Stunning fireplaces with cast-stone surrounds complement stylized light fixtures. Oriental rugs top walnut floors while gentle arches embrace thresholds and windows.
For the family’s everyday meals, an informal dining area is adjacent to the kitchen and built-in buffet areas. The bright space includes a large cream island where bar-height seating and a sink boost functionality. Granite countertops grace the kitchen, as does a corner window sink. Tile lines the backsplash with a glass mosaic focal point under the stone hood. A built-in steamer and icemaker personalize the kitchen for the homeowner.
Just steps away, the office’s butternut cabinetry and counters make it an inviting place to conduct household business. A walk-in pantry meets additional storage needs.
Photo by Jon Huelskamp
Landmark Photography
The grand staircase features walnut treads and handrails. Turned butternut balusters zigzag past windows. On the second floor, two bedrooms include their own private baths, one of which boasts elegant tile borders and a corner shower.
The owners’ suite features walnut flooring, a charming porch, and a granite-faced fireplace with white mantel and shelving. The bath’s walnut cabinetry and patterned granite contrast against white ceramic tile floors and wainscoting. A steam shower and spa tub elevate the bathing options. The owners’ closet and laundry room complete the second level.
On the third level, two open, carpeted spaces create a family lounge. A brick fireplace provides a focal point when family members aren’t gazing at the lake from the balcony or working at the computer station. A ping-pong table fills the other area, while an additional bath with a claw-foot tub provides sixth-bedroom potential.
On the lower level, recreation is the theme. A striking fireplace crafted of stone from Virginia, Minnesota, warms the space. A wine room offers adult diversion, while the kids can help themselves to snacks, watch movies, or play video games. A workout room with a rubber floor keeps the whole family moving during the winter. A slate-tiled bath offers a spa tub and shower, as well as a cedar-lined sauna. Two guest bedrooms and a storage room round out the lower level.
From top to bottom, the home successfully blends the Tudor style appropriate to the neighborhood with all the amenities for an active family’s lifestyle.
Ruth Paarmann is an Iowa-based writer and former Minnesota resident.
Builder
Charles Cudd Co.
Home Location
Minneapolis
Suppliers
The Brass Handle
Enhanced Home Systems
Guyer’s Builder Supply
Harmony Melamine Creations
Minneapolis Glass Company
Pipeline Supply
11 ISSUES (1 YEAR)
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