2020 Home of the Month Look Book

PHOTOS: ALYSSA LEE PHOTOGRAPHY
Norfolk Scandi
Not long after returning to Minnesota their family doubled in size—adding two small children to the mix. It was then that they
decided they would need more space and hired us to help. We spent some time assessing different layouts that would be cost effective
while providing ample space for a family of four, and would integrate the Danish modern aesthetic that had become a fundamental
part of the family’s character. After receiving preliminary pricing for the resolved design, Jayme and Phil spent six months
looking at homes for sale to make sure they were making the right financial decision. The both came to the same enthused
conclusion: they would substantially improve the home they already loved, but it needed to be done on a modest budget.
We identified three ways to keep the budget dow but still elevate the form and aesthetic.
First, we kept the existing footprint exactly as it was and added up, rather than out. Second,
we decided to pursue a minimal amount of work on the main level in order to put the
majority of resources into the new upper level. Third, we simplified the form of the exterior,
but added texture and material changes to give the house definition. In doing so, we knew
we could provide the desired space for a family of four and also allow budgetary flexibility
for high-end finishes, which the homeowners identified as a primary importance early on.
The resulting design accommodates all of the homeowner’s program requirements. The
existing main level bedrooms were converted to a back entry/mudroom/laundry room,
and an office/guest room. The kitchen was fully remodeled in a similar location but
expanded to utilize some of the existing vacuous front entry space. The existing stairs to
the lower level remained, and a new stairwell stacked on top. The sides of the new stairs
were infilled with slatted white oak 2x2s to provide light and visual connection between the dining and the kitchen but maintain separate
spaces. The upper level fulfilled Jayme and Phil’s desire to have the kids’ bedrooms and bathroom on the same level as their master suite.
Jayme and Phil stayed true to their passion for the Danish Modern style but also wanted to retain and honor the character of their existing
rambler. We kept the existing red oak floors but finished them with a Nordic light whitewash. All of the wood cabinetry and ceiling
work is quarter-sawn white oak with a matte natural finish. The kitchen island top was sourced as custom full slab pieces of oak. For the
backsplash, Jayme and Phil loved the idea of doing the same plaster finish that they had in their Copenhagen apartment. The subtle
texture and off-white tadelakt finish was custom created to reflect the Danish aesthetic.
This is a house with drama in the exterior tones, but quiets the senses as soon as you enter—a
contrast that heightens the experience of the Danish modern interior and a more American
modern exterior. The home makes you want to run your fingers along every surface and
material, feeling the subtle differences in texture; where you want to curl up with a good
book and imagine you are on a Scandinavian vacation. But it is also a house where a family
of four can eat together, play together, and converse together,
while having their own individual spaces. In short, it is a house
that perfectly blends, in a cost-effective manner, a deep affection
of the Danish Modern aesthetic with the lifestyle needs of
an young American modern family.
K | Nelson Architects
www.knelsonarchitects.com • (763) 913-9912
Design team: Kari Nelson, AIA
Project type:
Remodel, Addition
When the homeowners bought their
first home, they were young and engaged
and thrilled to have a small 1950s rambler
home near the Mississippi River in St. Paul.
They refinished the basement themselves, and
were just settling in when life began to change.
Two years after buying the house, they were given
the opportunity to live and work in Denmark. They
spent the next three years in a Danish apartment
with textured plaster surfaces, raw natural wood and
dark metal accents. They were instantly drawn to the
true Danish aesthetic and knew they would forever be
influenced by this architectural style.
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