Pondside
pondside
Eden Prairie
Ruth was honored to meet the retired couple who lived in this home, and loved their neighborhood, for more than 40 years. The trio discovered several serendipitous connections, including that the architect, Christopher Strom, Ruth’s frequent collaborator, had grown up down the street and his grandfather had built the clients’ home. The dream team was in place—and in agreement: a remodel to modernize the home, rework and open up the kitchen and living area to views of the pond and wildlife, and ensure comfortable, age-in-place, one-level living. Primary in the clients’ book of “things we love” was a textured, multi-toned, wool rug. Ruth had the fireplace resurfaced in a variegated stone that converses with the rug. She also added furnishings in a variety of complimentary textures: modern tweed, smooth leather, and neutral woven fabrics. Because the clients are tall, Ruth made sure the sofa back flips up for lounging, and the chairs swivel for TV watching and outdoor views. The sleek lines of the white-oak media wall indicate hidden storage, while floating shelves to one side house the couples’ art treasures. The project also included a new open staircase, office, pantry, and laundry room on the first level. The house blends updated mid-century modern with a little Scandinavian flair. “We were a tight team, with a lot of trust and collaboration,” Ruth says. “The final result flows beautifully.”
Photos by Scott Amundson Photography