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Dream On

Photo by David J. Turner

Don’t think I’m spoiled, but I spent most of June surrounded by luxury—no, not at Hotel Ivy or The Marsh. Instead, I strolled through elegant great rooms, dream kitchens, sumptuous bedroom suites, and (my personal favorites) fabulously appointed bathrooms.

I wasn’t alone: Thousands of Twin Citians joined me for our annual luxury revel. For three weekends in June, all of us at Midwest Home dedicated ourselves to bringing you the eighth annual Luxury Home Tour, 17 homes throughout the metro area built by the Twin Cities’ top custom home builders. This issue is your chance to take the tour in print and continue dreaming at your leisure.

The tour is always a showcase of new products and ideas. One trend that stands out this year: green-building materials and techniques. Three homes are Minnesota GreenStar pilot projects: “Fit to Scale” (page 58), “Gracefully Green” (page 74), and “Beach Effect” (page 94). In each, you’ll see stylish examples of Forest Stewardship Council-certified woods, Energy Star appliances, non-toxic paints and finishes, and products from pavers to countertops made from recycled materials. All truly deserve the overused tag, “eco-chic.”

There’s something for everyone, however. If kitchens are your passion, you’ll see designs from contemporary “Organic Beauty” (page 66), to traditional “Cottage Charm” (page 82), to sophisticated “European Distinction” (page 102). Open kitchens that allow cooks to work and socialize continue to be all the rage. Also de rigueur: farmhouse-style sinks, pot-filler faucets, and islands that can seat the family with room to spare. Hanging over those islands are unique lights that add flair to utility. Check out the artisan-made pendants in “Art-Inspired Design” (page 50).

I promise you’ll find one (or several) bathrooms to covet. My favorite: The spacious, marble-draped number with the egg-shaped tub in “Relaxed Glamour” (page 78). Or, maybe it’s the elegant bath with stand-alone tub overlooking Minnetonka in “In Love with the Lake” (page 62). Decisions, decisions.

Love to enjoy the outdoors as much as possible? You’ll appreciate the livable porches—complete with motorized screens, fireplaces, and towering ceilings—not to mention the patios and swimming pools. For one of the showstoppers, see “French Fairytale” (page 54).

Whatever your dream of luxury, you’ll find it here. Enjoy!