After years living in Zurich, the clients returned home with a deep appreciation for Swiss design and architecture. They asked our team to create a dream home in Wayzata that reflected these principles while functioning beautifully for an active family of five. The challenge: to balance strict development regulations with the desire for abundant natural light, social spaces, and a clean, minimal aesthetic rooted in nature.

The design solution framed views of the adjacent preserve and maximized light at every turn. A wall of windows and transoms opens the main living space to the outdoors, while the den captures southern light and a screened porch flows seamlessly to the deck and landscape. Oak casings frame each view, transitioning gracefully from entry to living to kitchen, while Douglas fir beams in the den lend a distinct Nordic influence.

The palette is quiet and neutral, anchored in Simply White with touches of texture and warmth. Painted coffered beams lower the ceiling to human scale, while airy light fixtures provide illumination without overpowering. Character-grade oak floors ground the home, chosen for both their durability and their natural beauty in a family household.

Furnishings uphold the clean-lined aesthetic: modern, minimal, and unembellished, with subtle color pops in red, yellow, and blue — a nod to European classics. Natural wood frames, linen, cotton, and a hide ottoman enhance the tactile honesty of the materials. Grass shades filter sunlight and add organic texture, complementing the blonde oak floors.

Social interaction drives the plan: open gathering spaces encourage connection, from the expansive kitchen to the long dining banquette with its western light-filled corner window. The extended dining table invites conversation, while the kitchen bustles with activity and shared meals.

The result is a residence that feels at once Swiss and Scandinavian — precise, functional, and serene, yet warm and inviting. A house for daily life, family gatherings, and above all, a celebration of living simply and beautifully.

Location

Wayzata, Minnesota

Design Partners

• Interior Designer: Lucy Interiors

• Photographer: Spacecrafting

• Builder: Streeter Homes

• Architect: Swan Architecture