Kootenia Homes Featured in Artful Living’s Winter 2026 Issue

We’re honored to share that a recent Kootenia Homes project has been featured in the Winter 2026 issue of Artful Living Magazine. The article, Interior Impressions Designs a Seaside-Inspired White Bear Lake Home, highlights a thoughtfully crafted lakeside retreat built by Kootenia Homes in collaboration with TEA2 Architects and interior designer Amy Leferink of Interior Impressions.

Located along the shoreline of White Bear Lake, this custom home blends East Coast inspiration with Minnesota lake living. Designed as a gathering place for family across generations, the home reflects the homeowners’ love for the relaxed coastal architecture they admired while living in Boston. Shingled textures, natural stone and classic circular windows create a timeless exterior that feels equally at home on a Minnesota lake.

A Lakeside Home Designed for Living

Built on a three-quarter-acre lot, the 4,500-square-foot residence was designed to feel like a retreat without requiring the upkeep of a traditional cabin. The homeowners previously owned a historic farmhouse cabin, but they wanted a space where weekends could be spent relaxing with family rather than maintaining an aging property.

The design prioritizes both comfort and connection. Expansive windows frame sweeping lake views while filling the home with natural light. The open-concept main level connects the kitchen, dining area, living room, office and sunroom—creating an easy flow ideal for everyday living and entertaining.

One of the home’s most beloved spaces is the sunroom, where a stone fireplace and full-height windows create a year-round gathering place overlooking the water. Whether watching wildlife or enjoying the changing seasons on the lake, the room serves as a quiet retreat within the home.

Thoughtful Layout and Timeless Materials

Throughout the project, careful attention was given to functionality and longevity. The laundry room was intentionally positioned near the kitchen to minimize nighttime noise near bedrooms, and the primary bathroom was designed as a spa-like space focused on wellness and relaxation.

Natural materials were chosen to complement the lakeside setting while standing up to everyday life. Carrara marble brings soft movement to the primary bath, pebble stone adds texture in secondary bathrooms and Cambria quartz in the kitchen provides the look of natural stone with added durability.

The soft, neutral palette reflects the surrounding landscape, allowing the lake and sky to become the home’s most vibrant elements.

A New Approach to Gathering Spaces

In many Minnesota homes, entertainment spaces are often found in the lower level. In this home, the design shifts that tradition upward. The second floor features a spacious recreation room, three guest bedrooms and a balcony that captures sweeping lake views through elegant arched windows. This level has become the central hub when family and friends visit.

Outdoor living was equally important to the design. A stone wall separates the lawn from the sandy shoreline, while a built-in grilling deck with durable Dekton counters was designed to withstand high heat and harsh Midwest weather—perfect for summer barbecues and lakeside gatherings.

A Home Built for Generations

At its heart, this home was designed for connection. Every space—from the open living areas to the welcoming guest rooms—supports the homeowners’ goal of creating a place where their children and grandchildren can gather, relax and make memories together.

We’re proud to have partnered with such a talented team to bring this vision to life and grateful to see the project recognized by Artful Living.

Project Partners

• Interior Design: Interior Impressions

• Builder: Kootenia Homes

• Architect: TEA2 Architects