Showcase Home ~ The Outdoor Room

The goal was to take this underutilized space and create an intimate outdoor room and entry.  A warm, inviting space that you can begin your day with coffee and the morning newspaper and then entertain guests for a quiet, relaxing dinner party and cocktails.  The entry needed to deliver the message that friends and family were welcome here.

To accent and compliment the architecture and setting of this historic Lake Minnetonka home without disturbing the the authenticity of the home as it was.  It was very important to choose patterns and use the correct color palettes that would be mindful of the beautiful landscaping and natural surroundings.

The space derives its calming energy from the use of five elements, fire, water, metal, earth and wood. The front patio is the perfect place to read the morning paper over coffee and breakfast.  Aged metal fencing creates a sense of space, while an eclectic mix of statuaries, urns and topiaries are tucked among the flowers and foliage to complete this relaxing retreat.

The organic striped cushion fabric compliments and accentuates the inviting feel of the patio, which has been turned into a true outdoor room.  The earthy reds and greens are inspired by nature's palette and tie into the garden and brick paver patio.  Many of the objects are round or curved to encourage the positive flow of energy.

In the entry, the curved concrete benches were custom designed to balance the home's substantial scale.  Earthy reds and muted gold tones were selected for the kidney-shaped benches to emulate natural stone and draw your attention toward the front door.  Their shape makes the entry feel "like welcoming arms".