Building a life from the ground up in rural Minnesota is, simply put, the dream. Interior designer Carrie Valentine has been living this dream in Mora since 2021, shaping every square foot of her bucolic-inspired abode dubbed the Black House, recently listed for sale.
Photography by Lauren Krysti | Interior styling by Kelly Dorow
Nestled on five acres along a quiet stretch of the Snake River, the house draws inspiration from early American Colonial architecture. “With nature-inspired tones and thoughtfully chosen materials like an unlacquered copper soaking tub, antique lighting, lime paint, a marble plaster range hood, a limestone hearth and abundant natural light, I was able to fully explore what it means to create a truly lived-in, soulful space,” says Valentine.
The design collectively leans into a European farmhouse aesthetic that feels both modern and timeless, perfectly suited for a young family. The primary suite and adjoining bathroom feel like a retreat, complete with the oversized luxurious copper tub. “I always say I don’t need a vacation — I just need an hour in that tub,” Valentine playfully exclaims.
Another standout destination in the home is the warm, spacious kitchen. Large enough to host holidays, the family-favorite space is bathed in calming natural light and opens into the dining room. Calling it the heart of the home would be an absolute understatement.
“What I love most about the Black House is the patina — the quiet confidence of materials that get better with time,” notes Coldwell Banker Realty listing agent Mya Honeywell. “Even the landscape mirrors this ethos, planted with native species and fruit trees that bloom, fade and return, restoring the soil as they cycle through the seasons. It’s a design that honors time, touch and transformation.”
“As a native Minnesotan, I’ve always felt a deep connection to the rural landscape,” details Valentine. “With help from Minnesota Native Landscapes, we restored an acre to encourage pollinators and support a thriving ecosystem. We’ve also invested in the land with apple, pear and cherry trees. We would love to see the next homeowner build on that vision and enjoy the fruits of both the land and the home.”
Explore endless winding trails through the woods, enjoy summer evenings by the river or gather around the fire pit under the stars. Whether you’re dreaming of a peaceful retreat, a hobby farm or a place to grow and roam, the Black House offers unmatched potential.
For more information, contact Mya Honeywell at 651-329-3619.
