Photography by Rich Michell
It’s the classic cabin conundrum. What should you prioritize – the cozy embrace of the fireplace or the captivating water views? That’s a tricky question that’s been confounding homeowners for generations. “In a lakeside living room, the draw is always to enjoy views of the water, but when a fireplace fills an opposite wall, it feels “wrong” not to face furniture toward it,” says David Heide Design Studio Architect Chris Christofferson.
So, the brilliant solution here? Prioritize them both. Step into the light-filled living room, and you’re greeted by a wall of windows overlooking the lake. Then, cleverly tucked into a low-slung bookcase right below the glass, you’ll see the opening for a petite fireplace, its sleek chimney rising up like a modern sculpture. That’s right, in one fell swoop, they’ve combined both fire and water. “The finished result looks simple, but the architectural detail was complicated. Careful attention was paid to orchestrating venting and mechanicals without compromising the glazing,” Christofferson explains.
And while the big windows offer sweeping landscape views, an adjacent wall holds a playful surprise: a collection of little peek-a-boo windows arranged into an organic vignette. One by one, the glass openings frame colorful branches or snippets of sky — living works of art. “A miniature window provides a view of nature that is often just as beautiful [as that afforded by the larger windows],” Christofferson points out. “Each leaf and tree limb is filled with detail that is easier to notice through a smaller lens.” These unique windows are repeated in the family room and even a bathroom, becoming a beloved part of the design.
The cabin was built in 2021 for a St. Paul–based family of three who wanted a place for group gatherings and weekend getaways. They love fishing and four-wheeling, so this 3,400-square-foot home in northwestern Wisconsin is designed for easy living. Constructed by Keenan Companies in Hayward, Wisconsin, the idea was to update the existing space, which felt a bit dated and dark. “It was really something,” company principal David Heide recalls. “It looked like ‘The Flintstones go camping’ with all the log posts, railings and logs everywhere.” So, gradually, Heide’s team brought in a more modern Nordic aesthetic mixed with a nature-inspired sensibility.
They accomplished this with a savvy selection of materials. The ceiling is clad in vertical-grain white oak, while wood wainscotting covers the walls. You’ll also find touches of Japanese tile, matte stone and rich leather — all adding up to a tactile sense of tranquility. Then, for the furnishings, Heide interior designers Michael Crull and Elizabeth Mueller brought in clean, custom-made pieces and a smattering of well-loved Danish antiques. “This blend contributes to the warm feeling of ‘family cabin’ where it is common to have pieces handed down over the years or repurposed from other residences,” Christofferson notes. “The unexpected pairing of an Eames chair with an antler chandelier overhead creates a character-filled and whimsical space where no one needs to take themselves too seriously.”
This kind of spirited yet highly detailed work is a hallmark of David Heide Design Studio in St. Paul. A full-service architecture, interior design and historic restoration company, they tackle a variety of projects from contemporary cabins to period estates. Driven by a commitment to quality and craftsmanship, the 27-year-old firm is known for creating spaces with timeless appeal.
We see this approach in the kitchen, which feels like a hidden escape. A distinct shift from the white hues in the great room, the color palette here morphs into more earthy tones of gray and red. “At a cabin, where much of the day is defined by brilliant sunlight glinting off the lake, a darker kitchen makes sense for cozy mornings sipping coffee or relaxing evenings preparing a homecooked meal,” says Design Associate Leanna Kemp Kristoff. One of the most beloved features here is the open shelving lining the perimeter of the center island. Its mission? To discretely tuck away all those food containers and party snacks guests typically bring out for the weekend.
Finally, if fun is what you are looking for, head to the lower level where you’ll find a bar that’s inspired by vintage supper clubs in the area. It certainly looks the part with swank leather panels, complete with studded detail. Ditto for the zinc countertops and classic foot rail at the bar. Sip a gin and tonic while looking out the grand picture window framing the lake. All that’s missing is a relish tray and the prime rib special. “It was the perfect addition to this cabin,” Heide sums up. “The owner’s family once owned a Northwoods supper club, so it’s in his DNA — a full circle moment for sure.”
Architect: David Heide Design
Builder: Keenan Companies
Interior Designer: David Heide Design
