Sandhill Residence | Stillwater, Minnesota | 2023

Architects: PKA Architecture
Project Principal: Kristine Anderson
Project Manager: Tammy Angaran
Design Team: Corey Schmitt, Claire Olson ,Cynthia Burns,  David Swan, Jason Briles
General Contractor: Redstone Builders Inc.
Landscape Architecture: TVLS
Interior Design: Client in collaboration with Ruth Johnson Interiors
Client: Private
Photographers: Spacecrafting

In the heart of an architecturally driven residential community, this modern home harmonizes contemporary living with the rich heritage of the land. The clients envisioned a dwelling inspired by their love of mid-century modern design that would also seamlessly blend into the natural surroundings of this development.

The project's complexity lay in meeting these objectives within the confines of community design guidelines, respecting neighboring sightlines, and optimizing panoramic views of the surroundings. The designers conceived a modestly scaled home gracefully nestled into the prairie. Tucked into the sloping condition of the site, the simple, loft-like floor plan allows expansive views from within, while also allowing a walk-out condition that minimizes any impacts on neighboring views.

Lines blur between outside and in as natural light spills into the spaces through strategically placed clerestory windows and skylights. Ten-foot ceilings and expansive modern windows magnify the scale of the natural surroundings, while sliding glass doors ensure a seamless integration with the landscape. The exterior, clad in resilient brick and durable corrugated metal siding with cedar accents, pays homage to the prairie's colors and textures while honoring the agricultural history of the site.

The refined materials palette within also mirrors the natural colors and organic textures found outside. Bespoke walnut and blackened ash cabinetry are complemented by oak flooring and locally crafted blackened steel panels. The kitchen showcases handle-less Miele appliances, luxe brass fixtures, and custom integrated cabinet hardware. At the heart of this home's commitment to sustainability lies the geothermal system. Both the pool and spa are heated using geothermal energy.

The integration of Tesla Powerwalls, designed to serve as a reliable battery backup in the event of power outages, ensures uninterrupted power supply during unforeseen circumstances by providing on-site storage for renewable energy. Furthermore, the residence incorporates the solar panel array above the garage, a feature that not only generates clean energy but also symbolizes the home's commitment to a renewable future. Span smart electrical panels interface with the solar array, enabling the home to efficiently manage energy consumption, especially when operating on battery backup.

The commitment to sustainability extends beyond energy management to encompass a comprehensive Lutron Homeworks system that orchestrates the control and automation of lighting, HVAC, and window treatments. This modern residence not only adheres to the community's architectural guidelines, but embodies a delicate balance between contemporary aesthetics, environmental sensitivity, and homage to the land's storied past.