Fall Remodelers ShowcaseSM Dream Remodeled Homes
Category: Newsroom » Remodelers ShowcaseSM » Remodelers Dream Homes - September 14, 2010
This Fall the Builders Outreach Foundation presents three stunning Dream Remodeled Homes for your touring pleasure! All Dream Homes ask for a $5 donation at the door.
#61, John Kraemer & Sons, Inc.
470 N. Mississippi River Blvd.
History with a Twist
Who doesn't love beginning their home tour by strolling through a beautiful iron gate?
Stepping into this home feels like taking a step into a history book. Perched on one of the most desirable residential streets in St. Paul, this historic property, known as Longfellow Manor, has undergone an extensive renovation by John Kraemer & Sons while maintaining the charm of its bygone era. Architecturally re-designed by Charlie Simmons of Charlie & Co. Design, it combines traditional detailing and craftsmanship with state-of-the-art technology.
Built for the granddaughter of American poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow and completed in 1934, this classic example of Federal Style architecture features elaborate detailing that was borrowed from her grandfather's home in Cambridge, Massachusetts, known as Cragie Manor. These detailed features from the original construction were not lost or redesigned, but incorporated into the new architecture.
From the refreshed entryway, your eyes are drawn to the original grand staircase. This staircase was the first steel structured stair used in a residential application in Minnesota, hence its surface was refinished while retaining all its original appeal.
The updated dining room and completely renovated kitchen, back entry and mudroom are just around the corner from the entryway. The centerpiece of the new kitchen is the custom stone hood-range. Continue on to see the intricately remodeled bathrooms and secret wine room. The project was tastefully tied together with interior design work by Sandy LaMendola, of Twist Interior Design.
Although the scope of the renovation is vast, keeping the historic elements of the estate intact was central to Charlie & Co. and John Kraemer & Sons. Be sure to stop by and support the Builders Outreach Foundation by touring this historically significant home remodel.
#13, Stonewood Renovation, Inc.
4511 Edina Blvd, Edina
Perfect Balance - Preserving Traditional Style with Modern Comforts
Updating this charming 1930s Tudor-style Edina home was an exciting endeavor for Stonewood Renovation, Inc. They worked closely with the owners to preserve the original character of the structure, while fulfilling the family’s wishes to make all living space more energy efficient and functional to compliment their active lifestyle. The entire home received refinment in some way, including the heart of this home, the kitchen. Enlarged and newly designed, the kitchen features custom-built mahogany cabinetry, Carrerra marble countertops and quality appliances such as a wine refrigerator and ice machine perfect for entertaining. Other practical additions made on the main floor include a kid-friendly mudroom with built-in lockers, brick paver-style floors, half-bath and enlarged family room featuring the original fireplace and wainscot paneling.
Upstairs, the upgrades continue. All three original bedrooms, including the owners’ suite, have been redesigned while preserving the integrity of the home. Carefully thought out details grace the home such as wainscoting with v-groove walls, marble floors and countertops in the bathrooms, walk-in showers and ornate free-standing tub. Incorporating modern conveniences such as in-floor heat in all bathrooms and the second-story laundry room was an easy choice. Everything blended together naturally, including the fourth bedroom addition with an extended living and play area. This room contains a custom-designed walk-in closet, a private bath and oak hardwood floors.
Moving down to the lower level, this area has been completely redesigned to meet the owners’ specifications. The new spaces include a remodeled family room, mechanical room, second laundry area with lockers and additional storage, and a new sport court and garage. Many electrical, plumbing and energy efficient aspects have been added to make sure the home runs smoothly, efficiently and more green. Outside, a new faux-slate roof, copper gutters and landscaping provide the finishing touches to the whole home remodel and historical addition. Many years of family fun, comfort and efficiency guaranteed! All this for a $5 donation to the Builders Outreach Foundation.
#33, Plekkenpol Builders, Inc.
10569 Bluff Road, Eden Prairie
Latest Trends, Lasting Quality
Openness, light, and warmth flood the senses when you enter this Dream Remodeled Home. Once in the entry you are greeted by two-story windows that give way to views of the bluffs beyond. This grand visage sets the tone for your home tour.
Just off the entryway you’ll find the dining room, featuring new cabinetry and granite tops with integral glass shelves, a glass tile backsplash and new accent lighting designed to highlight the owners’ artwork. Through the dining room, the wide open kitchen displays Plyboo cabinetry featuring bamboo doors with a frameless construction. The island, with granite countertop, sits center stage however, the four-foot-wide kitchen sink is the real command center, the counters conforming to its shape, and showing off with views that impress time and again. There is also a functional office/workspace within the kitchen’s footprint.
The sitting room, which is adjacent to the kitchen, allows a spectacular view of the bluffs from the large windows surrounding it. For entertainment, there is a new contemporary-style gas fireplace with a flat screen television above.
A wine room flanks the other end of the main level: an existing walk-in closet adjacent to the kitchen was converted to a large wine ‘cellar’ complete with stone veneer walls, tasting table, case storage, and stainless steel racking. A well-placed window above the tasting table allows you to see into the wine cellar from the kitchen, or out onto the fountains in the front yard. An updated laundry room, pet area, and lower-level bar round out this phenomenal remodel.
Clean lines updated with the newest materials, punctuated with strong colors exude a warmth and richness that the homeowners’ will appreciate for years to come. Stop by to tour while you can, knowing your $5 donation is going to a great cause in the Builders Outreach Foundation.