Perched on the shores of Wayzata Bay, one of the latest completions from homebuilder John Kraemer & Sons stands as a testament to the power of architectural reinvention and the allure of one of Minnesota’s most unique locations. The home site is the closest residential parcel to downtown Wayzata, offering a highly exclusive blend of lakeside tranquility and urban convenience. A brief stroll from the front door, and you’re crossing off holiday shopping at local boutiques or enjoying the seasonal special at 6Smith. Once back home, the bustle melts away into Lake Minnetonka, visible from every room and tiered roof decks.
Photography by Spacecrafting
But before this modern 5,600-square-foot marvel took shape, another project laid the groundwork — quite literally. The would-be homeowners happened upon the extremely compact site after the helical pier foundation from a previous project was already in place. “Our challenge was to design and build a home that would align with the existing foundation, but in a completely different architectural style,” explains Vice President John Kraemer. The homeowners saw potential in the location and the award-winning homebuilder. “JK and Sons has a reputation for quality, craftsmanship and attention to detail, so we trusted them to bring our vision to life.”
That vision was clear: a modern, cozy home that would stand the test of time. With the house’s bones already established, the team turned to Alexander Design Group for the dramatic architectural shift. Sleek lines and expansive glass walls replaced the initial lake cottage design. “Our goal was to make the house look see-through,” says Kathryn Alexander, president and owner of the design firm. The architecture is enhanced by triple-pane Loewen windows and sliding doors, selected for their efficiency and sound barriers to withstand harsh winters and the liveliness of downtown. “We’re mindful that the house has to look beautiful, but it needs to perform, too,” adds Kraemer. Stained cedar siding and a pitched standing seam metal roof complete the exterior for a fresh take on modern Minnesota architecture.
Principal Interior Designer Brooke Voss expanded on these architectural cues, playing into a mix of natural materials that balance the industrial elements of the home with the cozy layers the clients craved. White oak is highlighted throughout, providing all the warmth of wood without the heaviness. It beautifully offsets the home’s industrial touches, such as the exposed steel beams and the cable rail staircase. Voss chose metal wire lighting fixtures to create an airy atmosphere with a touch of drama, suspending them at varying heights in the main stairwell to create an artistic installation so anyone can admire them, even from the front elevation.
The designers introduced pockets of pattern, texture and color throughout the largely open-concept floor plan. One side of the formal living room offers a panoramic water view. To the left lies a trifecta of fire, steel and stone: a linear fireplace flanked by blackened steel built-ins at the base. Stained wood slats ascend to meet a glass-and-limestone feature wall. “We love how the craftsmanship highlights our artwork and other features,” the clients said. One of their favorite spaces is the gathering room, a glass-encased porch that seamlessly blends the indoors and out. In the warmer months, multi-slide doors open to invite the fresh air in, while in cooler weather, the family can close up and cozy up, nestling near the fireplace. With its wood-paneled ceiling for added warmth, the space is perfectly designed for year-round enjoyment. Kraemer and the team incorporated built-in niches to display treasured art, adding a personal touch to this well-loved room. It connects to the kitchen via the pass-through bar, where Voss selected a hand-glazed metallic tile backsplash that captures the natural light throughout the day, giving it just the right amount of shimmer as it shifts between copper, gunmetal and bronze hues.
Designed with a large extended family in mind, the kitchen is a study in both form and function. The client requested a solution that could serve as a buffet for family gatherings without dominating the space. The design team responded with a counter-height table attached to the island — a waterfall of walnut acts as a stylish serve-yourself station or a casual eating spot for two, with backless counter stools that tuck right underneath when not in use. A swathe of white oak grounds this central gathering space, wrapping the sleek cabinetry by artisan Mark Hurley as well as the island and flooring.
The lower level had some restrictions due to site limitations and proximity to the water. Kraemer’s team tapped into their creativity, building lower-level solutions outside the confines of a basement. The boathouse echoes the architectural style of the abode and provides ample storage. The team took advantage of the square footage above the garage to make space for a fitness room. The entire upper level feels extra livable, boasting three guest rooms, an office and an additional living space that flows out to the main deck where exterior materials echo the palette inside. Limestone adds to the warm, organic feel of the home, connecting the deck to the terrace down below, which features a pool and hot tub — amenities that not just any builder could position on such a challenging site. “We’ve built on the tightest sites around the state. Nothing is too challenging for our team,” says Kraemer, who was proud to deliver the highly desired feature for the clients.
The upper balcony is also a complete destination. Accessible only by the spiral staircase ascending from the deck or a quick elevator ride, the space provides a bird’s eye view with a beverage fridge and other thoughtful essentials. This home and its unique location represent the perfect blend of worlds — an approach mirrored in the design and build process, resulting in a masterful fusion of modern comfort. Reflecting on the collaboration, Voss notes, “We’re fortunate to work with partners like John Kraemer & Sons, who are at the top of their game.”
Builder: John Kraemer & Sons
Architect: Alexander Design Group
Interior Designer: Brooke Voss Interior Design
