Homeowners Kate and Rob host mythical parties, therefore a house suited to entertaining was on very top of their list. Kate, proprietor of a writing and marketing communications firm, also needed her house to serve as an office space for staff gatherings and customer functions. “We saw that the possibilities and knew we could place ourselves in this house,” Kate says. Perhaps the most prosperous attribute of the house is that it is a true reflection of the homeowners that live there. “I have all the crazy thoughts,” she says,”And Rob masterfully engineers them.”
in a Glance
Who lives here: Kate, Rob, college-bound sons, Jon and Jacob, and their Yorkshire terrier, Lucy.
Location: White Bear Lake, Minn..
Size: 3,200 square feet
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Behind every great author is a motivational writer. In cases like this, the beloved Dr. Seuss. This vibrant mural covers the walls of the stairwell leading to the upper layer. “’The Cat in the Hat”’ is particularly poignant to me,” Kate says. “It had been the first book I ever read. I viscerally recall sounding out the letters on this first page. It was a light bulb moment for me personally — the moment I knew I could see.”
Painting: by Dave Willits
Sara Ballinger – 1130 Creative, LLC
Situated on a shady corner overlooking White Bear Lake, this 1940s house was originally a 1-story cabin later constructed to an envelope home. An envelope house is essentially a house in a house, a layout that captures thermal energy from a south-facing solarium. It’s since been constructed out and retrofitted with warmth, evolving into an eclectic lake house with modern sensibilities.
Sara Ballinger – 1130 Creative, LLC
The house offers sweeping views of White Bear Lake, among the area’s favorite recreational lakes. The lake adheres to sailing, boating and swimming in the summer, and ice fishing and fishing in winter.
The tree swing was created and hung by a family friend (and tree trimmer). He created the ropes from soft, hand-friendly hardware store rope.
Sara Ballinger – 1130 Creative, LLC
When you walk through the front entrance, you’ll have a clue into the mischief that awaits you. Notice the questionable claw adorning the front of the closet doorway. Hang your jacket and let the”Wild Rumpus” begin!
Painting: Dave Willits
Sara Ballinger – 1130 Creative, LLC
A curved couch breaks up the rectangular living room and can be comfortably positioned to soak lake views. A brick wall and walnut wood floors add warmth and depth to the space, even though a beloved historical chest adds a touch of classic. When you look back toward the stairwell, another hint of Seuss mischief, Thing 1 or Thing 2, awaits.
Sofa: Go Home, Minneapolis
Chest: White Bear Lake Area Historical Society Silent Auction
Sara Ballinger – 1130 Creative, LLC
A landing at the staircase overlooks the light and airy kitchen. White cabinets and neutral oak wood flooring allow vibrant splashes of color to be the primary attraction.
Stools: Home Decorators
Pendants: Menards
Sara Ballinger – 1130 Creative, LLC
The backsplash you see this is made of stainless steel squares bought at an industrial merchandise store. They’re fastened to the wall with velcro (yes, velcro!) Allowing for easy interchangeability. The colorful Mosaic drawer panels are handmade out of inexpensive dishes.
Sara Ballinger – 1130 Creative, LLC
Season-inspired displays set the mood from the kitchen. In the background, a colorful cascade of drapes takes focus on the art and beautifully dresses up the tall wall.
Sara Ballinger – 1130 Creative, LLC
When homeowners or guests are looking for respite they go in the Cabana room, which offers a comfortable blend of warm and traditional décor. On the ceiling, craft fabric is emptied by woven placemats. Based on Kate, she couldn’t stand to check out a different white ceiling. “I love this home, but I would not have a popcorn ceiling purpose.”
Sara Ballinger – 1130 Creative, LLC
Upstairs in the workplace, this comfy corner acts as a quiet reading nook. To create the distance, a round compartment bed from IKEA has been split and covered with fabric and soft cushions. The stainless steel wall files hold ongoing jobs and customer files.
Lantern and seats: Pier One Imports
Corner bed: Ikea
Sara Ballinger – 1130 Creative, LLC
Can you guess that enjoys the reading nook the many? Meet Lucy, Kate and Rob’s irresistible Yorkshire Terrier.
Sara Ballinger – 1130 Creative, LLC
An upper-level porch just off the workplace provides a creative, light-filled space where Kate’s team gathers weekly.
Sara Ballinger – 1130 Creative, LLC
A catwalk looks down to the porch below. The plants are out of the house’s original owner. It is a good deal of plants, Kate admits, but a sentimental approach to pay tribute to the original owner who passed out shortly after selling the house.
Sara Ballinger – 1130 Creative, LLC
Here is another view of this main-level porch. It is full of lots of natural lighting and comfy seating for your guests. Notice the idle hanging seats in back; they are one thing a lake house shouldn’t ever be without.
Furniture and hanging seats: Pier 1 Imports
Sara Ballinger – 1130 Creative, LLC
A clever alternative to drapes, clear CD/DVD pocket sleeves have been used to create an eye-catching privacy display on an inside window.
Sara Ballinger – 1130 Creative, LLC
Originally, Kate had used her walk-in cupboard for office storage. Her wardrobe and assortment of accessories and shoes needed other things in mind, though. Now it’s far more glamorous than just an organizational space for paper cutters. Notice the creative jewelry holders: that is chicken wire mounted onto a frame.
Sara Ballinger – 1130 Creative, LLC
Kate and Rob never let their guests leave without a party favor. These fun bouncy balls are the perfect souvenir from a joyous, happy place that follows no rules.
More Minnesota Tours:
Modern Meets Conventional in Eclectic Loft
A Home Full of History and Surprise
Conventional Splendor in Minnesota