Maple Grove, MN March 2026

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Homes That Grow With US

I was the youngest of nine kids, which meant home was always full. Not metaphorically. Physically. Tight hallways. Shared rooms. And a steady hum of people coming and going.

My dad remodeled our house constantly. Walls moved. Doorways shifted. Closets appeared where closets definitely did not exist before. By today’s standards, the house would raise serious questions during an inspection. By our standards, it worked just fine.

There was always someone stopping by. Friends, neighbors, kids who weren’t technically ours but basically were. Doors unlocked. Space tight. Noise constant. We even had five cats and one dog. And we loved it.

The wild part is that my dad did all of this without YouTube, Google, or ChatGPT. Which feels impossible now. Somehow, he just figured it out.

At the time, I appreciated it, but I didn’t fully understand it. I just assumed walls moved when families got bigger. Looking back, I’m genuinely impressed. Not because everything was done “right,” but because it all held together anyway. That idea kept coming back to me while we put together this Home Issue.

Most homes aren’t perfect. They’re adjusted. Tweaked. Patched. Improved over time. They reflect the people who live there, not a single moment, but years of life layered on top of each other.

A home that works for real life often looks different than one designed to be admired from a distance. It prioritizes function over symmetry, durability over novelty, flexibility over perfection. It evolves as families grow, routines change, and needs shift.

That’s something you’ll see throughout this issue. Stories of homes that were shaped by the people inside them. Spaces that weren’t built to impress, but to be lived in. Kitchens that host homework and late-night conversations. Living rooms that have seen better days and better memories.

In a world full of perfectly staged rooms and curated ideals, there’s something grounding about a house that simply does its job. Holds everyone. Handles the noise. Makes room when it needs to.

And if your house feels a bit crowded, a bit imperfect, or held together by habit and optimism, there is nothing wrong with that. It might be doing exactly what it was meant to do.

Thanks for reading.

TIM DORAN, PUBLISHER @MAPLEGROVECITYLIFESTYLE

March 2026

PUBLISHER

Tim Doran | tim.doran@citylifestyle.com

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Annie Doran | annie.doran@citylifestyle.com

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

Ryan Siemers Photography | rps@ryansiemers.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Angela Broockerd, Amy Gale Maloney, Ana Meyer, David Scheller

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Abby Carbajal, Dan Jenkins, Amanda Proudfit

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Mary Albers

LAYOUT DESIGNER Lillian Gibbs

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Brandy Thomas

Word of Mouth Says It All –

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city scene

1-3: The Maple Grove Lions Club hosted a feel good waffle breakfast with hot waffles, sausage, coffee, and orange juice. Families laughed, kids enjoyed Lions KidSight vision screenings, and the bake sale featured treats from Nothing Bundt Cakes. A tasty morning that supports programs all year. 4-7: High school sports are in full swing with buzzing crowds, and school pride on full display.

business monthly

Styled Stems: Modern Florals With Personality

Styled Stems is a boutique flower design studio in Maple Grove. We have an incredibly talented team of 5 designers. Their designs are truly breathtaking, and mechanics are unbeatable. We keep up on the latest trends and specialize in wedding and event florals. We provide same-day flower and plant delivery. Regardless the destination, your delivery will arrive promptly and with care. 763.951.2772 | styledstemsmn.com

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Rogers Tech Center Cuts the Ribbon

Rogers Tech Center is a newly opened development in Rogers, offering modern new construction designed for industrial or commercial use. With flexible layouts, convenient access, the space is ideal for growing businesses or secure extra storage, providing functionality, efficiency, and room to expand for future needs. 21000 Church Avenue, Rogers

Condo Suites Cuts the Ribbon

Thinking about building a shop or garage, or a space for your hobbies? Consider a smart option. Condo Suites Otsego gives you secure, flexible space-without the time, cost, or commitment of building from the ground up. Condo Suites is perfect for: contractors, car collectors, powersports enthusiasts, small business owners, and hobbyists. Your hobbies. Your setup. Your rules. This is so much more than storage...it’s lifestyle space. 612.309.9563

Individual Therapy

Child & Adolescent Therapy

Family & Couples Therapy

Telehealth

Individual Chemical Health Counseling & Assessments

Parenting Support

ARTICLE BY ANNIE DORAN PHOTOGRAPHY BY RYAN SIEMERS PHOTOGRAPHY

Huge IMPROVEMENTS

A Story of Craft, Heart, and Humor

HOW IT ALL BEGAN

It is funny how a single suggestion can reveal the path you were meant to take. For Eugene and Michelle Kizzier, that moment arrived during a conversation with friends who were house hunting yet still deeply attached to their Maple Grove home. The couple loved their neighborhood but struggled with their splitlevel kitchen and dining room layout. When Eugene and Michelle encouraged them to consider renovating instead of moving, the friends replied with the idea that changed everything: “They suggested we should do it for them.”

It was a simple nudge, but it opened the door to the business they had quietly been preparing for over the years. “We were up for the challenge,” Michelle said, and they dove into the opportunity with enthusiasm. Eugene attained his contractor license, and just like that, Huge Improvements began taking shape. They describe it as the push they needed, and looking back, it was exactly the moment that set everything in motion.

THE SKILLS BEHIND THE STORY

Long before Huge Improvements officially began, Eugene and Michelle were unknowingly preparing for it. Eugene learned carpentry from his father, gaining experience through years of hands-on projects. His twenty-five years in Real Estate strengthened his understanding of how people live in their homes. Michelle’s career centered around children and education, but she always sensed “there was always a spark for interior design and

making spaces both functional and beautiful.” Together, these backgrounds formed a complementary foundation. One brought construction knowledge, the other design intuition, and both brought humor. As they explained, working as a true husband-andwife team means “there’s always a lot of humor along the way.”

They knew they were on the right path when a former client shared photos of neighborhood kids gathered around their newly renovated kitchen island. The project had required knocking down walls to create a space for gathering “on both holidays and everydays,” and seeing the home in action reaffirmed why they chose this work. “What a gift it is to be a part of that life-changing transformation,” they said.

ROOTED IN THE COMMUNITY THEY LOVE

Maple Grove has been home to the Kizziers for about twenty-five years. It is where they raised their three children, volunteered, and built relationships that continue to shape their lives. Building their company in the same place felt natural. “We love meeting new people who are a part of our community,” they explained. “It brings us so much joy to create beautiful and functional spaces in Maple Grove.”

A major part of their success comes from their team of subcontractors, whom they describe as “the absolute best in the business.” From cabinet makers and electricians to painters, plumbers, countertop specialists, and tile setters, each plays a role in bringing their projects to life. “It takes many hands to carry out a

“Home should always be a place to feel at ease, a place to gather, a place that tells your story.”

project, and we certainly couldn’t do it without them,” they shared. Their collaborative spirit strengthens every remodel and allows them to take on projects of all sizes.

GROWING INTO A FULL-SERVICE REMODELING COMPANY

Some of their most meaningful work has been for homeowners navigating difficult transitions. They spoke about “working with a few women who have lost their significant others too soon in life,” approaching these projects with sensitivity and care. “Our work is about so much more than the physical materials that make up a space,” Michelle said. “There can be a lot of feelings and hopes for the future involved.”

As the company grew, so did its capabilities. Today, Huge Improvements is completing an extensive in-house showroom featuring a fully renovated kitchen, dining room, family room, foyer, mudroom, and design studio. “Having a space in Maple Grove that our clients can see materials and features in person will be a huge asset,” they said. It offers homeowners the chance to “see and feel what is possible in their own home,” which often sparks ideas they may not have considered.

Their favorite projects frequently involve kitchens, where families spend most of their time. Reimagining these spaces allows for layout improvements and meaningful functionality. They also enjoy transforming bathrooms, laundry rooms, mudrooms, and basements, especially when those updates increase the livability of the home. As they explained, “An improvement that offers the best value is one that increases the livability of the space.”

DESIGN THAT REFLECTS PERSONALITY

Trends in Maple Grove show a desire for warmth, comfort, and personal expression. The Kizziers enjoy listening to each client’s inspiration while guiding them toward options that feel both fresh and timeless. Homeowners are exploring “unique millwork, vibrant wallpaper, or textured tile,” alongside warm wood tones and mixed metals like antique brass and matte black. Huge Improvements strives to help clients create “spaces that have personal and unique touches that create their own story of what home means to them.”

“An improvement that offers the best value is one that increases the livability of the space.”

LOOKING AHEAD

Looking to the future, Eugene and Michelle are excited for what lies ahead. They are proud of their evolution from handyman services to a full-service design and renovation company, and they value the relationships they have built along the way. They see enormous potential in Maple Grove’s older homes, many or which were built thirty-to-forty years ago. These homes hold character and endless possibilities, and they specialize in helping homeowners visualize those changes through complimentary

estimates and 3D renderings. “Home should always be a place to feel at ease, a place to gather, a place that tells your story,” they said. “Our goal is always for you to ‘Love Where You Live.’”

Working together brings levity and joy to the process. “We are constantly giving each other high-fives and cheering for one another,” they shared. “Investments in your home should be exciting and fun.”

And when the dust settles, families consistently share the best compliment of all: their home finally feels the way it always should have.

RETHINKING KITCHEN CABINETS: RTA VS. CUSTOM

WHY TODAY’S RTA CABINETRY OFTEN MATCHES CUSTOM QUALITY WHILE OFFERING SMARTER TIMELINES AND BETTER OVERALL VALUE.

ARTICLE BY ANNIE DORAN PHOTOGRAPHY BY RYAN SIEMERS PHOTOGRAPHY

Rethinking Kitchen Cabinets: RTA vs. Custom

For many homeowners, cabinetry is one of the most important decisions in a kitchen remodel. Cabinets set the tone for the space, shape how it functions day to day, and often represent one of the largest investments in the entire project. For years, the conversation around cabinetry felt simple. Custom cabinets were considered the gold standard, while ready-to-assemble cabinets, often referred to as RTA, were viewed as a budget-driven compromise.

“The best kitchens are not defined by whether cabinets are custom or ready to assemble, but by how well the space supports daily life.”

That perception has shifted significantly.

To better understand how today’s cabinetry options have evolved, we spent time with the team at J&K Cabinetry, whose Maple Grove showroom reflects just how far modern RTA cabinetry has come. Advances in materials, manufacturing, and quality control have transformed the category, allowing well designed RTA kitchens to rival custom cabinetry in appearance, durability, and performance, while offering shorter lead times and greater flexibility for many homeowners.

So how do you decide which option makes sense?

At its core, the difference between RTA and custom cabinetry comes down to how

they are made. RTA cabinets are produced in standardized sizes, typically in threeinch increments, and arrive pre finished before being assembled on site. Custom cabinets are built from scratch and can be designed down to the quarter inch. That level of precision can be valuable, but it is not always necessary.

In many kitchens, the actual difference between custom and RTA comes down to a few inches that would otherwise be filled with a panel or trim piece. Paying two to three times more for customization does not always deliver better function, durability, or long-term value for today’s homeowners. For those without highly

specific design requirements, RTA cabinetry often provides a smart balance of quality, appearance, and cost.

What matters far more than the label on the cabinet is how it is constructed.

Many homeowners focus first on aesthetics, but construction quality determines how cabinets hold up over time. Solid wood door fronts, plywood cabinet boxes, and strong joinery significantly increase longevity. Spending modestly more on better materials can result in cabinets that last decades rather than years.

Higher quality cabinetry also tends to retain its value. Future buyers are less likely to feel the need to remodel a kitchen

“Paying two to three times more for customization does not always deliver better function, durability, or long term value for today’s homeowners.”

when cabinets still feel solid, functional, and thoughtfully designed. In that sense, cabinetry is not just a design decision. It is a long term investment.

Lead times also play a major role in the remodeling experience. Custom cabinetry often requires three to nine months from order to delivery, extending project timelines and increasing disruption. Many modern RTA manufacturers, including J&K Cabinetry, have invested heavily in inventory and logistics, allowing cabinets to arrive in days rather than months and helping projects move forward more smoothly.

Beyond materials and timelines, the most successful kitchen projects start with a clear understanding of how the space will be used. Most homeowners remodel their kitchen only once, even if they live in their home for decades. The goal is not to chase trends, but to create a space that works for real life.

That might mean prioritizing storage over symmetry, durability over novelty, or flexibility over perfection. Thoughtful

cabinet choices help kitchens adapt as families grow, routines change, and homes evolve.

Today’s cabinetry landscape offers more strong options than ever before. Custom cabinets still make sense when a homeowner has a highly specific vision or unique spatial challenges. For many others, modern RTA cabinetry delivers exceptional quality, faster timelines, and strong long term value.

The best kitchens are not defined by whether cabinets are custom or ready to assemble, but by how well the space supports daily life, feels welcoming, and stands the test of time.

In the end, the right cabinetry choice is the one that helps homeowners feel confident, comfortable, and happy in the heart of their home.

For homeowners who want to explore materials, finishes, and construction details in person, J&K Cabinetry’s Maple Grove showroom offers a hands-on look at what is possible.

10901 Elm Creek Blvd N, Maple Grove | www.jk-cabinetry.com/minneapolis

A Healthier Margarita

DISCOVER THE DELICIOUS FRESH TASTE OF A CLASSIC MARGARITA MADE WITHOUT SUGARY MIXERS

ARTICLE BY ANA MEYER

Whether you’re hosting a pool party or simply enjoy sipping the sweet and tartness of an amazing Margarita, this healthier version with these natural ingredients is sure to make your palate happy. This is all fresh ingredients, no mixers. It’s just as easy, much cleaner and better for you!

INGREDIENTS

• 2 oz. Casamigos Reposado or Blanco Tequila

• 1 oz. Fresh Lime Juice

• .25 oz. Fresh Orange Juice

• .5 oz. Agave Nectar

• .5 oz. Orange Liqueur

• Garnish with a lime wheel through a skewer

INSTRUCTIONS

• Combine all ingredients into a tin shaker.

• Add ice, shake vigorously and strain into rocks glass.

• Add fresh ice and garnish.

REP AIR IT OR REPLACE IT, KNOWING THE RIGHT MOVE FOR YOUR SIDEWALK

ARTICLE BY ANNIE DORAN | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

SIDEWALKS

DONE RIGHT

Sidewalks rarely make the to-do list until one becomes a tripping hazard. Some issues can be solved with smart repairs that lift, level, and extend the life of existing concrete, while others call for full replacement. In this issue, we explore when repair makes sense and when starting fresh is the better long term solution for homeowners.

SIDEWALK REPAIR WITH DBS

Sidewalk repair is often the most practical solution when concrete is still structurally sound but no longer safe or comfortable to walk on. Uneven slabs, widening cracks, poor drainage, and slippery surfaces are common across Minnesota. Left alone, these issues can create trip hazards, accessibility concerns, and contribute to water problems near the home.

This is where DBS focuses its work. Rather than jumping straight to replacement, DBS prioritizes repair first. Their process begins with a free inspection to identify what is happening below the surface. Shifting soils and water movement are often the true culprits, and stabilizing those conditions is key to a lasting solution.

Repair methods such as lifting and leveling concrete, crack repair, sealing, and drainage improvements address the root problem without the mess, cost, or downtime of tearing everything out. For homeowners, this often means faster projects, less disruption, and a more environmentally friendly outcome by extending the life of existing concrete.

Sidewalk repair also plays a role in protecting the home itself. When concrete fails to shed water properly, pooling can occur near foundations, increasing the risk of wet basements, crawlspace moisture, mold, and structural concerns. Addressing sidewalk issues early helps prevent larger problems and keeps outdoor spaces functioning as they should.

Once structural repairs are complete, DBS offers surface enhancement options to improve durability, safety, and appearance. One growing trend is DuraStone, a resin bound stone overlay that is permeable and slip resistant. It allows water to pass through, improves traction, and delivers a refreshed look for sidewalks, patios, pool decks, and driveways.

From helping homeowners resolve city notices to improving accessibility for families and visitors, DBS approaches each project with care. At its core, their work is about more than concrete. It is about creating spaces, in and outside the home, where everyone feels safe and welcome. We coach our team to treat every customer like family, and we strive to WOW our customers with every project.

www.dbsrepair.com

SIDEWALK REPLACEMENT WITH AURORA ASPHALT & CONCRETE

When a sidewalk’s foundation is compromised, repairs may no longer provide a lasting solution. Widespread cracking, sinking sections, or ongoing drainage issues often indicate failure below the surface. In these cases, full sidewalk replacement is the best way to restore safety, durability, and long term performance.

This is where Aurora Asphalt & Concrete delivers lasting results. Their professionally installed concrete sidewalks are designed to be smooth, safe, and built to handle daily foot traffic. Whether connecting a driveway to a front entry or adding walkways throughout a property, concrete sidewalks create clean lines that enhance curb appeal and elevate the overall look of a home or business.

While asphalt may cost less upfront, it requires more frequent maintenance and typically has about half the lifespan of concrete. Concrete’s durability and lower upkeep make it a better long term investment. With proper care, a concrete sidewalk can last over 20 years, offering strong performance and long term value. Concrete also tends to increase home value more than asphalt, thanks to its longevity, appearance, and higher return on investment.

Aurora’s replacement process is efficient and homeowner friendly. Demolition is typically completed within a single day. The concrete crew returns one to three days later to pour the new sidewalk, depending on weather conditions. Because

“WHEN REPAIRS ARE NO LONGER ENOUGH, REPLACEMENT PROVIDES A FRESH START WITH LASTING RESULTS.”

concrete placement is weather dependent, rain or unfavorable temperatures may cause brief delays to ensure quality. After 24 hours, the new sidewalk is ready for foot traffic.

Replacement also allows Aurora to rebuild the base properly, restore correct grading, and improve drainage. Addressing these underlying conditions helps prevent future settling and premature wear.

When repairs are no longer enough, sidewalk replacement provides a fresh start. With expert craftsmanship, durable materials, and attention to long term performance, Aurora Asphalt & Concrete delivers sidewalks that improve safety, boost curb appeal, and stand the test of time.

www.aurora-asphalt.com

Advanced Care for Health & Beauty

Remedy Medical Aesthetics & Wellness™ is a premier clinic specializing in medical aesthetics, anti-aging, and restorative care.

We enhance the health and wellness experience for both women and men, focusing on the treatments and lifestyle solutions that support vibrant, healthy living—restoring beauty from the inside out.

ARTICLE BY AMY GALE MALONEY | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

TRAVEL THAT FEELS LIKE HOME

CULTURAL IMMERSION IS REDEFINING MODERN LUXURY AND MEANINGFUL TRAVEL

Immersive travel has shaped my journey to where I am today, guiding how I curate meaningful experiences that define modern luxury in travel. Luxury is not defined by how fancy a hotel is, but by access to exclusive experiences and a true sense of place wherever you go. It is about feeling connected, welcomed, and transformed by where you are.

I grew up in a family that believed travel should expand your understanding of the world and your place within it. My parents taught me to notice how people live, eat, celebrate, and find meaning in their everyday lives. That foundation shaped my love of travel and led me to specialize in culturally immersive, experience-driven journeys that prioritize authenticity over excess.

Today, I am seeing a powerful shift in how people want to travel. Travelers are no longer simply seeking beautiful destinations or upscale amenities. They are craving connection. They want to experience local traditions, taste regional cuisine, learn the stories behind a place, and feel genuinely cared for rather than processed through an online travel search engine.

Travel authorities such as Forbes Travel Guide and Travel Weekly have highlighted a growing trend toward meaningful, experience-forward travel rooted in cultural immersion. This movement reflects a broader desire for travel that feels personal, intentional, and emotionally rewarding.

I see this reflected in travelers right here in our community. Maple Grove resident Carolyn Huber recently shared how her family of 14 chose locally guided excursions during a Mediterranean cruise instead of standard ship-sponsored tours. “The experience was over and above fabulous,” she said. “The tours far exceeded our expectations and felt more personal, authentic, and meaningful.” By booking shore excursions with an independent tour provider, her family built a deeper and more genuine connection to the communities they visited.

On land, some of the most memorable immersive stays are found in properties with deep cultural roots. One example is the Grand Hotel Excelsior Vittoria, a historic family-owned estate in Sorrento, Italy, founded in 1834. Still run by the Fiorentino family,

the property began as a private home and now welcomes guests into a living piece of Italian heritage. Visitors enjoy regional Neapolitan cuisine, stroll through lemon groves overlooking the Bay of Naples, and explore nearby Pompeii, Capri, and artisan communities, connecting with local history, craftsmanship, and daily life.

That sense of belonging is intentional. Luca Fiorentino, whose family has owned and operated the Grand Hotel Excelsior Vittoria for generations, describes it not simply as a hotel, but as their home. With family members running operations and managing the guest experience while living on-site, the care guests receive is deeply personal. “We want travelers to feel they’re not just visiting our town,” Fiorentino says, “but truly coming home.”

At sea, experience-driven river cruising reflects the same philosophy. Companies such as AmaWaterways emphasize immersive shore excursions, regional storytelling, local

cuisine, and onboard cultural programming, all included as part of the journey. Guests might tour historic towns with local guides by day, then enjoy wine tastings, culinary demonstrations, or regional performances onboard in the evening.

Across both land and sea, true luxury is not defined by extravagance. It is defined by depth. When travel invites curiosity, care, and cultural connection, it does not just take us somewhere new. It changes how we see the world and how we come home.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Amy Gale Maloney is a travel advisor, writer, and travel community host specializing in culturally immersive travel. With a background in strategic storytelling, she curates meaningful journeys for culturally curious travelers who value depth, authenticity, and connection.

Join a community of culturally curious travelers by visiting www.luxrallytravel.com/the-team/amy-gale

REVOLUTIONARY SPORTS

BRINGING THE LOVE OF SPORTS TO ALL CHILDREN

ARTICLE BY DAVID SCHELLER

PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

1998. Coach John, fresh out of college, coaching soccer full time.

2001. Coach John, hired to coordinate a neighborhood soccer league in Minneapolis, and then a kindergarten program, followed by a preschool program. Later that very same year, Coach John was chosen by the city’s Park and Recreation Board to coach soccer year round, for a program that would soon become citywide, encompass multiple sports, and welcome five hundred groups annually.

2026. Coach John, now a coacher of coaches, spreading the powers of athleticism, positivity, and teamwork across the Twin Cities.

“And soon, hopefully, across Minnesota, and then someday the whole country,” said Coach John Richardson, founder of Revolutionary Sports, which provides world-class athletic programs for children of all ages to schools, community centers, park and recreation boards, early childhood learning centers, and sports associations.

“Revolutionary Sports is pretty unique among businesses that make it to twenty-five years,” Coach John continued. “We have never been driven by profitability. Instead, our primary goal is supplying as many great coaches as we’re able. The rest kind of just falls into place.

“That commitment makes Revolutionary Sports fairly selective of our team members. If we receive three hundred fifty applicants, only twenty-five will meet the criteria for professionalism, reliability, and genuine ability to connect with kids we require of a leader.

“We’re currently gearing up for growth: improving our administrative infrastructure, and establishing ties with new community partners who want the highest standard of coaching for their children. But as we add more and more full-time coaches to our current roster of seventy-five, we’ll never lose sight of our primary goal.

“I started out coaching the same sport I had played through college. Many of our new hires begin the same way, and become central to the robust single-sport programs we offer. But by following our proven ‘Learn, Practice, Play’ approach, any one of those novice coaches can quickly learn to teach baseball, T-ball, basketball, soccer, flag football, and any other sport they set their mind to.

“Multitalented coaches like those are invaluable. There is nothing inherently wrong with raising a child on only one sport, but I believe their life becomes richer when they play several. It helps them avoid burnout, make friends, and discover new pastimes they’ll cherish long into adulthood. In other words, I believe our renaissance coaches are making the world a better place.

“Remember: the best athletes play multiple sports! Michael Jordan’s stint playing outfield for the Birmingham Barons might not be as memorable as his time with the Bulls, but he certainly proves the rule.

“No matter how big we grow, we’ll never lose sight of sports’ true purpose: fun . That’s not to say we wouldn’t be delighted if someone we coached should happen to go on to play for the Vikings. But so long as they’re engaged and enjoying themself during their precious few years of childhood, we’ll consider our job a success.”

Revolutionary Sports is active in Champlin, New Hope, Plymouth, and Rogers. Visit those cities’ respective Parks and Recreation pages to participate. Visit RevSports.org to learn how you can incorporate Revolutionary Sports into your own community organization.

No family should have to choose between essentials. Your gift to CROSS Services provides food, financial help, and family support .

This March, your generosity is amplified through our partnership with Minnesota FoodShare.

ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAN JENKINS, AMANDA PROUDFIT

MID-CENTURY WARMTH, REIMAGINED

There’s a certain moment when a house stops feeling new and starts feeling like home. It isn’t marked by square footage or finishes alone. It is something quieter, more emotional. In this home, designer Kate Manz set out to do exactly that: give a newly built home a heartbeat and a soul.

Rather than treating the house as one sweeping statement, she approached each room as its own story, layered with meaning, memory, and texture. The result is a home that feels collected, personal, and deeply lived-in.

“My love for design goes hand in hand with the people and stories that bring it to life,” she says. “I absolutely love seeing the evolution from concept to completion and all the elements and people that help bring those ideas to reality.”

That philosophy becomes especially important in the home’s expansive open-concept living area, where scale could easily overpower intimacy.

THE OPEN CONCEPT, REIMAGINED

The main living space is defined by bringing the outside in with sweeping outdoor views and generous proportions. Rather than fighting that openness, embrace it.

“The big open concept room really highlights the expansive outdoor views,” she says, “but making intimate spaces within that open room was really important.”

A layered niche wall, created in collaboration with the interior architect Nick Flower, brings both structure and softness to the room. It introduces texture, depth, and a place for unique objects and family heirlooms to live, turning negative space into a personal gallery.

ENTRYWAY: A WARM WELCOME

The entryway sets the tone with a simple but powerful goal: Welcome to my home.

Natural stone underfoot grounds the space, while a soft vintage rug and living greenery immediately soften the experience. Art with personal meaning invites guests to linger rather than rush through.

POWDER BATH: SMALL ROOM, BOLD SPIRIT

If there’s one place Manz encourages clients to take risks, it’s the powder room. Here, she leaned into terracotta earth tones, layering textures and tile sizes for visual interest and warmth. Patterned and solid tiles work together, while textured wall coverings and a sculptural stone sink elevate the space from functional to delightful.

LOUNGE: A STUDY IN CALM AND DEPTH

Designed as a counterpoint to the openness of the main living area, the lounge is a cocoon, both peaceful, layered, and deeply versatile. It’s a place for reading, movie nights and slow mornings.

Rich tones and varied textures do the heavy lifting here, creating depth without heaviness. Soft lighting and custom upholstery make the room feel both intentional and effortless.

At its core, this home is a reminder that design isn’t about perfection, but rather it’s about feeling. By treating each room as its own narrative while weaving in warmth, history, and human connection, a space was created that already feels loved.

PROJECT CREDITS

Builder - Buildwell

Architect and Interior Architect - Flower Architecture

Designer - Kate Manz

Estate Experience You Deserve

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events

SUNDAY NIGHTS

Enjoy our Wine Dinner Series

Lookout Bar and Grill, 8672 Pineview Ln N, Maple Grove | 6:00 pm

The Lookout Bar & Grill Wine Dinner series returns with monthly four course meals expertly paired with wine. Each dinner includes guided tastings led by a wine expert, creating a relaxed and social dining experience. Guests need to reserve their seats in advance. Follow The Lookout Bar & Grill on social media to access the event's sign up genius.

MONTH OF MARCH

What's Happening at Mama's Happy

Mama's Happy, 7804 Main St, Maple Grove

March 5th - Mocktail Workshop - 6-8:30pm

March 13th - Clean Living Workshop - 1-3pm

MARCH 14TH

2nd Annual St. Patrick's Day Fun Run/Walk

Lookout Bar and Grill, 8672 Pineview Ln N, Maple Grove | 9:00 AM

The Lookout Bar & Grill kicks off St. Patrick’s Day weekend with its annual St. Patrick’s Day 5K Run and Walk. Hosted by Bob’s Lookout Foundation, the festive event begins and ends at the restaurant and combines fitness, community spirit, and holiday fun, followed by food, drinks, and celebrations to keep the party going. Sign up here: http://raceroster.com/.../ 113348/bobs-foundation-st-pats-5k

Natural House Cleaning and Home Organization

Clean

CLASSES, CAMPS & GAME PLAY

CONTINUED

MARCH 14TH

Maple Grove Home Show 2026

Maple Grove Community Center, 12951 Weaver Lake Road, Maple Grove | 10:00 AM

Since 2001, RevSports has delivered consistent, high-quality youth sports programs. RevSports has grown to be a leading programming partner for communities. Families trust RevSports experienced coaches, proven approach, and family-friendly structure.

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The West Metro’s #1 Home Show! One Day Only! Planning a home, lawn, or garden project this spring? Whether you're dreaming of a backyard oasis, finally updating that dated kitchen, or just curious about the latest in home trends. Unlimited Possibilities. All Under One Roof. Explore the latest products, services, and ideas across every corner of home improvement. 10am to 4pm.

MARCH 15TH

Vintage Spring Market

Maple Grove Community Center, 12951 Weaver Lake Rd, Maple Grove 10:00 am

YEARS OF QUALITY COACHING

The Maple Grove Vintage Market brings together local vendors offering timeless décor, retro finds, and one of a kind treasures. Held indoors at the Community Center, the market is a favorite spring stop for collectors, decorators, and anyone who loves the charm and stories behind vintage pieces. From 10am to 3pm.

MARCH 21ST

Rock Your Socks

Maple Grove Community Center, 12951 Weaver Lake Rd, Maple Grove 9:30 am

Year-round offerings. Over 10 different sports options! Metro-wide partnerships with these locations near you!

Rock Your Socks is a family friendly celebration of World Down Syndrome Day. The event features music, games, and interactive activities that promote inclusion and awareness. Families are encouraged to wear colorful socks as a symbol of acceptance while connecting with others and celebrating the value, joy, and abilities of individuals with Down syndrome. From 9:30am to noon.