Issuu

M A R C H 2 02 1

Celebrating Home! HOME + DESIGN F RO M T H E G R O U N D U P WAL L PAPER T REN D S FO R 2021

901 Nicollet

Minneapolis jbhudson.com

612-338-5950

LIFESTYLE LETTER

MARCH 2021 PUBLISHER

Alexandra Patty | alexandra.patty@lifestylepubs.com EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Kassi Miranowski | kassi.miranowski@lifestylepubs.com

There Is No Place Like Home

AD DESIGNER

Miranda Read L AYO UT DESIGNER

Emily Lisenbee

THAT IS SOMETHING WE HAVE ALL LEARNED MORE ABOUT THIS PAST YEAR. The way you decorate each room and the memories you create in your home make it uniquely yours. 2020 saw many working from home, kids needing space for eLearning, and family members utilizing the same safe base like never before.

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Susan Baldani, Daniel Brashi, Gordon Glantz CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Lucy Hawthorne

Remodeling and home improvement remains steady during the pandemic as the community continues to adjust. As we move further into this new year, perhaps you still have ideas for a refresh. Maybe you’re in the market for a new home and are ready to build new memories. Kate and Sarah of Coldwell Banker Realty have teamed up to cover your needs, providing the power of two combined with years of experience. If it’s projects like window and door replacement to increase efficiency and update inside and out, Great Plains Windows and Doors can find solutions to fit your needs. Even if you have been putting off upgrading your furnace and air conditioning units, Standard Heating can offer options all year round and has a committed, dedicated team in place to help when you’re ready to go! For bigger remodeling projects, you may need to look for a general contractor. Minneapolis Lakes spoke with KG Contracting and learned more about how they got started, their organized online system, and focus on great customer service. For smaller updates, Hirshfield’s weighs in on the current wallpaper trends that can help transform a space and provide a beautiful, fresh new look.

CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson AD MANAGER Chad Jensen

Whether you are moving forward with a project, or in a holding pattern, Daniel Brashi provides some great wine and food pairing suggestions to enjoy in the comfort of

REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

wherever you might call home. Happy Spring Minneapolis Lakes and enjoy the issue! 514 W 26TH ST., KANSAS CITY, MO

COVER PHOTOGRAPHY CLAIRE FERRARA OF STANDARD HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING BY LUCY HAWTHORNE 4

Minneapolis Lakes | March 2021

CityLifestyle.com/MinneapolisLakes

Proverbs 3:5-6 Minneapolis Lakes™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Minneapolis Lakes area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Minneapolis Lakes™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

YEARS

INSIDE THE ISSUE MARCH 2021

FEATURES 10 Generations of Leadership Claire Ferrara and the Standard Heating & Air Conditioning Team

16 Dynamic Duo A Home Team for the Lakes Area

22 Tried and True Great Plains Windows and Doors Stand Behind Andersen Products

10 36

36 Wallpaper is Making a Comeback! Trends for 2021

22 DEPARTMENTS 4

Lifestyle Letter

Around Town

Locally Owned

Open House

28 Locals Only 34 Culinary Creations 36 Trend Setter

RELAX. PLAY. BE HAPPY.

KATIE BASSETT INTERIORS INTERIOR DESIGN | NEW CONSTRUCTION VACATION HOMES | RENOVATION INTERNATIONAL MARKET SQUARE – SUITE 525 | MINNEAPOLIS TELEPHONE: 612-385-1456 | KATIEBASSETT.STUDIO

CityLifestyle.com/MinneapolisLakes

AROUND TOWN years ago, Alejandro set out on his journey to keep the tradition alive. "The first hurdle was sourcing the corn, the second was perfecting the process. We are finally there." www.nicostacobar.com

SAVE BRYANT AVE S PARKING Keljik’s Oriental Rug Cleaning, Lake Harriet Veterinary and many more local businesses and residences located on Bryant Avenue South need your help to save their parking. The City of Minneapolis has planned for a 24 month renovation to reconstruct

OWL OPTICAL

the street starting in 2022 and will remove 70%

Owned by lovebirds Chris and Julie, Owl Optical

of parking in the area. Businesses and neighbors

is devoted to uniting you with the frames of your

agree with safer crossings and increased visibility,

dreams. Every fabulous face deserves extraordi-

but eliminating street parking will impact custom-

nary, uniquely-you, hand-crafted design. So if your

ers and residents alike. Learn more and help sup-

glasses don’t “spark joy” it’s time to ditch good

port small business and local neighbors by visiting

enough and go for glorious! Stop by our Linden

change.org/bryantaveparking to sign the petition.

Hills location or give us a call for your new look. Specializing in custom fit, Asian fit, petite eyewear, sunglasses, and plenty for kids too! Eye exams available www.owloptical.com | 612.367.4106.

SERGE & JANE ART INSTALLMENTS Serge & Jane in Edina is relaunching their Artist Series with a “Walking Gallery” within the shop. View local artist's work filled in their large (+ safely spread out!) stairwells over the next few months. All hanging artwork was inspired by, and created during the 2020 quarantine. Stop in during business hours to view this rotating gallery including pieces like Sheila Peterson's portrait art, as well as 11-year-old St. Paul student, Dylan Barsness, with his colorful, collage-like art with it's mesmeriz-

NICO’S HERITAGE NIXTAMAL TORTILLAS

ing detail. www.sergeandjane.com, 4532 France Avenue South. (612) 315-4638.

In late 2020, Nico’s Taco Bar launched their ancestral Nixtamal tortillas, using native, heirloom corn from their homeland of Michoacán, Mexico and

they are gaining a lot of attention! A sacred tradition

Would you like to get in touch with us? We would love

in his heritage, owner Alejandro Victoria has found

to hear from you! Contact us at CityLifestyle.com/

a way to bring this ancient Mexican technique to

MinneapolisLakes using the Get In Touch link and

his taquerias. When his father, a corn farmer, died 4

let us know what you think.

Minneapolis Lakes | March 2021

THIS SURE BEATS PLAYING SOLITAIRE! Solitaire not your game? Try Mah Jongg or Cribbage instead. Enjoy an inspiring, independent life at a SilverCrest community where friendships are made, delicious meals are shared and dedicated staff are available to assist when needed.

Safety is our main goal. SilverCrest is proud to announce that COVID vaccination clinics have been held on-site for all residents and staff.

ACTUAL SILVERCREST RESIDENTS DEPICTED PRE-COVID

Change is Good 5200 Wayzata Boulevard Golden Valley, MN 55416 Contact Mary at 763.278.8000 globalpointeseniorliving.com

INDEPENDENT LIVING

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ASSISTED LIVING

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6501 Woodlake Drive Richfield, MN 55423 Contact Judy at 612.861.1186 villageshores.com

DEMENTIA CARE

•

RESPITE

LOCALLY OWNED

Generations of

Leadership CLAIRE FERRARA AND THE STANDARD HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING TEAM ARTICLE SUSAN BALDANI PHOTOGRAPHY LUCY HAWTHORNE

STANDARD HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING WAS STARTED 91

to make sure we exceed all the expectations

YEARS AGO BY TONY FERRARA, IN THE BACKYARD OF HIS

we have to make sure the people who work

PARENTS’ HOME. In the late 1970’s Tony’s sons, Ted and Todd

here have the opportunity to contribute

Ferrara, took over the business and in 2019 Ted’s daughter, Claire

ideas and solutions.”

Ferrara, became President. Tony passed away when Claire was young, so she never had the opportunity to work with her Grandfather in the business. “He

To further guide her in her leadership role, Claire follows advice she was given by her mentors.

had such an entrepreneurial way about him,” she says. “I wish he

“One of the single biggest things the

could see how we work today and that I could hear stories from

people who have been mentors did for me

when he started. I ask myself all the time ‘what would Grandpa

was to help me find confidence in myself,”

think about this?’”

she says.

Since its founding, the business has survived wars, the Great

Another piece of their advice was to

Depression, a recession and other obstacles, including the cur-

redefine what her idea of success looks like.

rent pandemic. The success of the business through uncertainty

“It is no longer ‘Did I get everything done

is something Claire credits to the team of people who she works

today (or this week, or this month or even

with every day.

this year) that I wanted to get done?’ but

“The underlying theme is that when you’re surrounded by great

instead ‘Did I make more good decisions

people, everyone brings things to the table, and as a team you’ll

than bad decisions.’ It’s that simple. I’m

make it through,” says Claire.

a list maker, and I like checking things off

Of course, Standard has grown since its founding all those years

the list, but leadership is not about lists, it’s

ago and today they have a team of about 100 people. Claire values

about how you show up, even when every-

their input in making decisions about the company and how best

thing on the list isn’t actually happening.

to serve its customers. “We have high expectations for ourselves

Simplifying in this way has helped me move

about how we do business, Customers have the same, and in order

forward in my role.”

Minneapolis Lakes | March 2021

For advice to others, Claire stresses that nobody should wait

amazing career opportunities, and I say career for a reason. It is not

until they feel perfectly prepared to take their next step, to apply

just a job. The trades have great pay and great benefits, but beyond

for that new role, ask for a promotion, start their own business, or

that, there are so many ways for people to contribute, as individuals

reach higher for success whatever that means to them.

or as part of a team. Working with tools is only one portion of working

“Being perfectly prepared doesn’t exist. There is always

in the trades, there are tons of other ways to contribute, and these

something to learn, it’s impossible to know everything. If you

roles are so much more than many people think they are. You get a

want to wait until you know everything, you’re going to wait

chance to be part of repairing and maintaining and actually building

much longer than you need to or you may never even get

the community around us. How cool is that? I wish more women and

started on that next step” she says. “Also, be really proactive

men would take a serious look at joining us in this industry.”

about what you do want. Don’t wait for opportunities to come

Fittingly, Standard Heating & Air Conditioning’s mission is “To

to you. Go out and seek advice, find mentors. Make it clear

make lives better through the practice of our trades.” For Claire, this

to others what your goals are. Don’t wait for someone else to

is meaningful, both professionally and personally.

approach you to ask what it is you want.”

“Contributing to the world around us is something that is deeply

Claire also wants to educate people on the many opportuni-

rooted in our founding and my job is to make sure that continues,”

ties the HVAC industry has to offer. She comments, “There are

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/MinneapolisLakes

LOCALLY OWNED (CONTINUED)

she says. “I love that we have an opportunity, every sin-

we will donate $25 to a charity of their choice,” she says.

gle day, to leave a positive mark on the world because

“There are seven specific organizations we suggest as

we are working to live our mission. This can look like,

options for people to direct their donation too, but people

among other things, helping a Customer be more

can submit their desired charity if it isn’t listed.”

comfortable in their home, working with an employee

To help choose these 501(c)(3) charities, they have

to develop new skills or finding ways to support orga-

polled their customers and employees about causes that

nizations in our community. My personal values and

were meaningful to them. Since its inception over five

mission align with this work and it makes it fun to get

years ago, the program has raised over $50,000.

up and want to do this every day.”

Claire and members of her family are Dunwoody

The company and its employees are very involved in

Institute of Technology alumni and they, and Standard

the community, whether it’s donating time, money, or

Heating, are active in supporting a variety of local trade

products. “We try to find a variety of ways to add to the

school programs by sitting on program advisory com-

world around us. Sometimes that means a monetary

mittees, donating equipment for students to work on,

donation, when we can, other times it’s spending time

and providing mentorship.

mentoring at a trade school or donating a furnace to a

“Standard Heating & Air Conditioning is in the ‘peo-

family. This last year we had a couple of employees who

ple business,’” she says. “Yes, we are a heating and air

drove to Iowa and back, in one day, with a furnace and

conditioning company, but we serve people, we solve

air conditioner and all the supplies - and put in all new

problems for and with people, we employ people, we

equipment for a family that was going through a really

do business with people. And that has been true for

tough time,” says Claire.

all 91 years.”

In addition, Standard Heating drives charitable giving through their 5 for $25 Charity Drive. “For anyone who does business with us, if they take five minutes of their

To find out more about the company, its people, and the ser-

time to leave a review of any kind about their experience,

vices they offer, go to https://www.standardheating.com/.

L EAVE A POSITIVE MARK ON THE WORLD BECAUSE

“I L

O VE THAT WE HAVE AN OPPORTUNITY, EVERY SINGLE DAY,

A RE WORKING TO LIVE OUR MISSION.”

Minneapolis Lakes | March 2021

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Minneapolis Lakes | March 2021

Take comfort in years and generations

Four

years dedicated to Twin Cities homeowners years serving over 500,000 customers years Providing the Comfort You Deserve years and over 600 combined years of expertise

Tony Ferrara Founder 1st Generation

612-509-6996

standardheating.com

Todd Ferrara

Vice President, 3rd Generation

Claire Ferrara

President, 4th Generation

Ted Ferrara

Semi-Retired, 3rd Generation

OPEN HOUSE

Dynamic Duo ARTICLE SUSAN BALDANI

PHOTOGRAPHY LUCY HAWTHORNE

A HOME TEAM FOR THE LAKES AREA

SARAH BALESTRI AND KATE BUCKLEY ARE NEIGH-

“It made a lot of sense to join forces,” Sarah told us.

BORS IN SOUTHWEST MINNEAPOLIS, LIVING LESS

“We’re both big cheerleaders for the Lakes Area, and

THAN A BLOCK FROM ONE ANOTHER NEAR LAKE

it’s easy to sell what you love. Between the two of us,

HARRIET. They’re also both local real estate agents

we have over 27 years of combined real estate expe-

with a passion for Lakes Area living. It’s a scenario beg-

rience. We know what we’re doing, and we can lean

ging for some neighborhood drama…but these two are

on each other to provide the best possible service to

Minnesota Nice, born and raised. Rather than wrestling

our clients. Having four hands instead of two makes a

over the area they love, Sarah and Kate have made the

huge difference! One of us is always available to help

choice to team up on behalf of the whole community.

out a client.”

Minneapolis Lakes | March 2021

Sarah, who has been in the real estate industry for over 20 years,

“Harriet has been charming neighbors around her namesake lake

has a wealth of experience which is invaluable to their clients.

for over eight years now. She’s a 22-pound force of nature. She

Kate, in addition to seven years in the real estate business, holds a

thinks she’s a celebrity. And she’s not wrong!” Celeb or not, Harriet

CPA and an MBA. That education and her 25+ years in corporate

is the adorable symbol of this team’s deep connection to the place

America gave Kate the tools to overcome any buying or selling

they call home. And in an industry all about connecting people to

obstacle, no matter how complex.

places and homes, that connection goes a long way.

Together, Sarah and Kate work out of the Coldwell Banker

“The importance of home is tremendous and being able to help

Realty Minneapolis Lakes Office, offering the unparalleled per-

people find that feeling means everything to me,” says Sarah.

sonal touch that comes with being extremely passionate about

Kate agrees, “I really value the sense of place and the importance

and familiar with the neighborhoods and community they serve.

of having your home as your castle. I’m all about helping people

“It’s nice to be able to say that we live in the area and love it,” says

find their sanctuary.”

Sarah. “It gives us another layer of credibility. We appreciate the

Kate continues, “buying or selling a home is one of the biggest

walkability, access to parks, shops, schools, and cafes. We know

financial (and emotional) events of your life. It’s essential that cli-

where to find anything.”

ents trust that we are looking out for their best interests. When I

If you think you love Lake Harriet more than these two, think

represent someone, they come first, and they know it.” Sarah adds,

again. Kate’s Welsh terrier “Harriet” serves as their team mascot.

“we’re both very hardworking. Our clients know the lengths we’ll go CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/MinneapolisLakes

OPEN HOUSE (CONTINUED)

“Our clients know the lengths we’ll go to get the job done. If something needs doing we’ll either refer it, arrange it, assist with it, or get ‘er done ourselves.” to get the job done. If something needs doing we’ll either refer it,

possible light. Getting a home ready for sale can be a daunting

arrange it, assist with it, or get ‘er done ourselves.”

task, but this team’s goal is to take some of that burden off, so

In addition to their personal commitment and professional experi-

that home sellers can realize the best possible return. If cash is

ence, Sarah and Kate have the global resources of Coldwell Banker

an issue, Coldwell Banker has a program where they will pay for

backing them up. “The blue Coldwell Banker sign is meaningful in

repairs upfront, and sellers reimburse that cost at closing.

our neighborhood,” says Kate. “It stands for quality and integrity and

“It’s a much better deal than those newer agencies that utilize an

that’s what we stand for, too. Through Coldwell Banker, properties

‘instant offer’ business model,” says Kate. With a little guidance and

can be marketed anywhere and everywhere. “We have a sizable

some small changes, anyone can increase the profit margin on their

luxury wing of the company that broadcasts our listings all over the

home. Don’t give that opportunity away.”

world,” Sarah explains. “And we’re prominent in the local market too. Our properties are featured on every search portal, and the brand’s marketing appears in every ad channel.” A big focus for Sarah and Kate is getting the best possible price for their clients. This is done by showing homes in the best 18

Minneapolis Lakes | March 2021

To find out how this dedicated team can assist you with your real estate needs, contact Sarah at 612-590-7703 or call Kate at 612-817-7554.

CA LL TODAY FOR A FR EE ESTIM ATE Interior Painting | Exterior Painting | General Remodeling

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STEVE HAVIG | GARY BENNETT | MICHAEL OLAFSON 612.229.6972 JEANETTE KUNZ, Broker Residential, Investment & Commercial WI & MN Licensed 715.441.2804 jeanette@lakesarerealty.com

FOR SALE

SOLD! 2441 COLFAX AVENUE SOUTH, MINNEAPOLIS

880 COUNTY ROAD EAST, HUDSON, WI

Charming Lowry Hill East Home Beautiful custom-built home with stunning craftsmanship and rare 3-car heated garage.

Spectacular water views! Rare opportunity to own 82 acres with groomed trails. Two lakes, fenced pasture. Approximately 20 tillable acres. 40’ x 60’ shed with horse stalls & haymow.

5BR/5BA | 2,528 SF | SOLD AT FULL PRICE $450,000

4BR/3BA | $1,175,000 | 2,580 SF

Twin Cities commercial real estate at its most versatile

MICHAEL BREHM, CCIM, SIOR | 952.212.0575 MIKE DOYLE, CCIM, SIOR | 612.242.8820 NILS SNYDER, CCIM, SIOR | 612.240.7967

FOR SALE OR LEASE

FOR LEASE

THE SCHMITT MUSIC BUILDING, MINNEAPOLIS

CITADEL, 1516 W. LAKE STREET, UPTOWN MINNEAPOLIS

Half block from Nicollet Mall on 10th Street near multiple skyway connections. Easy access to 1-35W & 1-394. Walk to shops, entertainment, sports, green spaces. Home of the 5-story Musical Mural!

Awesome work, live, play environment. Office space from 20010,000 rentable SF. Recently remodeled common areas. Great access to transit, amenities & lakes. Off-street parking.

35,500 SF on 5 Floors | Lease rate $10-15 net | Priced at $6,000,000

AGGRESSIVE LEASE RATES If your home is currently listed, this is not a solicitation.

Calhoun Isles

Closed Sales

Homes for Sale

Avg. Sales Price (000s) $872 $1,080 $575 $1,110 -

+40.0% +48.2% -

24 7 2 7 5 3 -

35 1 2 5 3 16 6 1 1

$710 $718 $553 $708 $779 $682 -

-8.8% -9.8% -27.3% +45.1% +9.0% -

6 2 2 1 -

Bryn Mawr South Uptown Cedar-Isles-Dean East Calhoun (ECCO) East Isles Kenwood Lowry Hill Lowry Hill East West Calhoun

Southwest Armatage East Harriet Fulton Kenny King Field Linden Hills Lynnhurst Tangletown Windom

40 2 5 4 7 9 12 1 -

% Chg

Avg. Days on Market

Avg. Price per Sq. Ft.

57 62 4 47 72 83 -

$264 $257 $252 $269 $280 $246 -

38 30 115 11 -

$340 $378 $218 $388 -

COMMERCIAL MARKET STATISTICS by Multi & Single Tenant | Q4 2020 Minneapolis CBD Northeast Northwest Saint Paul CBD Southeast Southwest West Grand Total

# of Bldgs 162 223 99 47 179 236 98 1,044

Inventory 36,702,424 22,731,202 8,045,266 10,360,374 14,135,172 25,750,435 10,721,103 128,445,976

Total Available (SF) 7,149,170 2,237,033 667,881 1,276,143 2,341,096 4,285,697 1,938,573 19,895,593

Total Vacant (SF) 6,469,295 1,714,205 501,496 1,505,599 1,796,237 3,237,007 1,467,486 16,691,325

Total Absorption (SF) (94,265) 3,593 277,134 (12,186) (213,408) (112,170) (52,250) (203,552)

YTD total Absorption (SF) 151,950 102,599 249,821 (43,776) (323,877) (13,132) (211,177) (87,592)

Vacancy Rate 17.6% 7.5% 6.2% 14.5% 12.7% 12.6% 13.7% 13.0%

For Residential information contact Steve Havig | 612.867.5624 | For Commercial information contact Nils Snyder | 612.240.7967 Residential zip codes: 55403, 55405, 55408, 55409, 55410, 55416, 55419. Data updated February 4, 2021. Residential data obtained from Northstar MLS. Commercial data obtained from REDIComps.com. Data is deemed reliable but not guaranteed.

kenwoodcommercial.com

NILS SNYDER Partner, CCIM, SIOR 612.240.7967 | nsnyder@kenwoodcommercial.com

lakesarearealty.com STEVE HAVIG CEO/President, CRS, GRI, Broker 612.867.5624 | steve@mplslakes.com

TRIED AND T RU E

GREAT PLAINS WINDOWS AND DOORS STANDS BEHIND ANDERSEN PRODUCTS

Minneapolis Lakes | March 2021

ARTICLE GORDON GLANTZ PHOTOGRAPHY LUCY HAWTHORNE

NOBODY NEEDS TO TELL TONY FLINT ABOUT THE

Andersen Frame Company to focus more on windows.

IMPORTANCE OF TEAMWORK, AS HE HAS SPENT

Andersen’s reputation grew exponentially from there.

HIS ENTIRE LIFE PLAYING OR COACHING NUMER-

“There are quite a few different window manufac-

OUS SPORTS. What is true in sports is generally

turers out there throughout the U.S. and Canada,” said

applicable in the real world, as Flint certainly sees it

Flint. “But really, when you narrow it down, there are

every day at Great Plains Windows and Doors, where

only a few in which we compete. Ironically, we are all

members of the team each play an important role in the

within 4-7 hours of one another.”

success of the business.

Given the extreme weather conditions of the region,

The result has been a winning product for customers,

it tends to make sense that Andersen would call the

who are served in the seven-county Metro area as well

Twin Cities region home. “There is really no better

as parts of western Wisconsin.

testing ground than the Midwest,” said Flint. “You

“That’s an excellent analogy,” said Flint. “Everyone is extremely important to our Great Plains team. We

get the extreme cold of the winter and the heat and humidity of the summer.”

are kind of like a family, and that’s because we all wear

Flint believes Andersen sets itself apart with its engi-

quite a few hats and communicate with one another. At

neering, materials, and the amount of testing that is per-

the end of the day, it feels pretty good.”

formed to make sure they are the best in the field.

It doesn’t hurt to sell and install Andersen win-

He added: “As far as Andersen is concerned – and,

dows and doors from the nearby home base of the

maybe, I’m a little biased because it’s all I’ve done for

renowned company either, which was most recently

quite a while now – there is a tremendous amount of

awarded the 2019 Energy Star® Partner of the Year for

engineering that goes into the product. The product

sustained excellence.

lasts; it holds up. Andersen has been around for nearly

Flint said: “When it comes to replacing old, moldy,

120 years. That’s not by mistake. That’s why we feel

rotted out, or non-efficient windows or doors, all we do

extremely comfortable selling and installing Andersen

here is replace them with Andersen only products. We

windows and doors.”

don’t do roofing or siding or gutters or decks or anything like that. All we do are Andersen windows and doors.” Andersen – based a short distance away from the Great Plains office, was originally established in 1903 as Andersen Lumber, but in 1929 changed their name to

Flint, who has been in the window and door business a little less than 20 years, became the Director of the Sales and Operations at Great Plains Windows and Doors from its conception around a half-decade ago. CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/MinneapolisLakes

TRIED AND TRUE (CONTINUED)

Minneapolis Lakes | March 2021

AUTO HOME LIFE BANK “About six or seven years ago, there was an influx of phone calls from people looking for us to not only sell it, but also install the product as well,” said Flint. “Great Plains decided this would be a terrific addition to its already successful millwork business. With the right people and the right level of experience, know-how, and unsurpassed support from ownership, we launched Great Plains Windows and Doors and have never looked backed since.” “I enjoy it a lot. We are able to help people with what is their largest investment – their home. Replacing their old windows and doors isn’t like buying a car or a boat, but it certainly bodes

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well for people who are improving the energy efficiency and operation of their windows and doors.” Because his division has a narrow focus, that being only replacement windows and doors, Flint sees a major edge on the competition as being able to provide customer service. “We are able to focus on that particular entity,” he said. “It’s a form of remodeling. We are putting windows and doors into existing openings. Every now and then, there might be some unforeseen challenges. We could take out a window or door and find

Sam Sand

State Farm Insurance Agent (612) 351-3848 sam@eliteinsurancemn.com www.eliteinsurancemn.com

some additional rot. If that happens, we discuss it as team to figure the best solution for the homeowner. We are not going to put a new product into an opening that is not going to hold it.” Flint says, “It’s part of our culture to have a customer-first mentality. Communication is the key, with both the homeowner as well as our internal folks.” 2020 and the pandemic also changed the way folks were relating to their existing windows. “People were staying home,” said Flint. “They were operating their windows and doors more than usual, or at least looking at them more often…people were, and are still at home, not traveling as much and possibly saving more money. I would like to think that some of those dollars went toward remodeling.” Flint sees the arrow continuing to point upward for his division in 2021 and beyond. “I’d like to say it will be business as usual,” he explained. “And I say that in the best possible manner. We are going to keep doing what we usually do, and that’s reaching out to folks with our marketing and letting people know we are here for them, whether they are still at home, or back at the office. “We are certainly looking forward to additional growth. We have plans in place to do that, and with an established “customer first” focus, we are looking to help more and more people replace their old, worn out windows and doors today, tomorrow, and beyond!” To learn more, visit www.greatplainswindows.com , make an appointment (651) 207-4571 or visit their showroom located at 6866 33rd St N Suite #100a, St Paul. CityLifestyle.com/MinneapolisLakes

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Minneapolis Lakes | March 2021

y p p a Happy Women’s Month! H

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LOCALS ONLY

From the Ground Up

Minneapolis Lakes | March 2021

ARTICLE GORDON GLANTZ

KG 28

TALK ABOUT HUMBLE BEGINNINGS. When Josh Kloos drove around the Minneapolis area seeking painting jobs in his Honda Civic, it was what would blossom into fast-growing KG Contracting

(www.kgcontracting.com),

which

now boasts a five-star rating from customers for a variety of services. “I went out and just booked some jobs by knocking on some doors for about two weeks,”

He literally painted his way through the

reflected Kloos, a native of North Branch, Minn.

University of Minnesota, and continued plying

“I booked about $11,000 worth of paint jobs and

that trade as far away as Iowa and Georgia. He

went and bought my truck. I painted the first

sold real estate for a time, and also did roofing

house myself. I interviewed some employees, and

work in Florida and North Carolina before coming

then it just went on from there.”

back to Minnesota with a plan.

The St. Paul-based company, which has

He recalled: “It finally got to the point where I

evolved from door-knocking to going mostly

said to myself, ‘Why am I doing this for somebody

virtual, now has seven full-time employees and a

else? I’ve done the sales. I’ve done the labor.’ I had

range of within 15 miles of the Twin Cities.

pretty much done everything. The only difference

When Kloos launched his company, it was less on a whim and more the product of life experience.

was that I was putting my own name on the contract, instead of somebody else’s.” What he learned from working for others was the value of empathy for those paying for the services. “We are really good at customer service, and we are really good at getting a job done,” he said. “We are still a small construction company, we do a lot of things – roofing, commercial jobs, apartment remodels, siding work … We’ve done a lot of trades.” This also means promises are better kept, and not fitting into the negative stereotype of contractors who don’t deliver on the timetables they promised when contracts were signed. “The important thing when working in construction – and I’ve probably worked with more than a thousand clients over the years – is that no two jobs are going to go exactly as the contractor or the homeowner planned,” he said. “What we are really good at is handling the situation when CONTINUED >

O N T R AC T I N G

KG CONTRACTING IS MINNESOTA BORN AND BRED

CityLifestyle.com/MinneapolisLakes

LOCALS ONLY (CONTINUED)

there is a question, or communicating that something may take 2-3 days longer.” Because his company is still in the up-and-coming phase, Kloos looks toward an exciting future of more challenging projects without losing sight of its current bread and butter of residential painting and roofing. He said: “Right now, the minimum that we will do is a basement repaint…but we can definitely do a whole house – inside or full exterior.” The biggest hurdle to clear to get to where he wants KG Contracting to be is cutting through red tape involved with those bigger projects. “We’d like to get more into working on commercial spaces, with commercial building owners, but it’s challenging to get into those jobs,” he said. “Commercial projects have a longer cycle. If a homeowner wants a house painted, they will make a decision within a week. On a commercial project,

He explained that someone from KG Contracting

you first talk to a property manager. The property

will look at a project and take the necessary mea-

manager gives your bid to the owner to approve

surements, notes and photos. After an estimate is

it. Sometimes, there are two or three owners. A

written, they are available to text, call, e-mail, etc. It

commercial project we just got took about seven

has been completely positive as Kloos says he finds

months to close.”

clients respond better when you allow them to look

As he points KG Contracting toward the future,

at the estimate on their time.

Kloos is proud of how he turned a personal weak-

Said Kloos: “I don’t run into a lot of companies

ness (lack of organization with paperwork) into a

that are doing it this way. We’re just starting it our-

competitive edge.

selves. We switched over to one hundred percent

What that translated into was going completely

online about two months ago, and really like it.”

digital, which works out well for clients in today’s work.

Kloos admits to not being handy (a reason he does

He said: “We still have somebody go out and look

almost all of the sales), but can look back and laugh

at the project, but after that our clients can com-

at the fact that he ended up in a career that was a far

pletely communicate with us – book the job, change

cry from what he expected when he went to college.

orders, pay for the project – 100 percent through a

“I never envisioned this,” he said. “I actually started

digital account. It’s good for us too because we can

college to be a biomedical engineer. I spent a couple

send text messages through the program that we

years painting, and doing construction work, and

use. Our entire team can see it, and instead of one

ended up never leaving. I painted over the summers,

person, five different people can respond to it.”

and that’s how I worked my way through college. After that, I got a job as a maintenance guy. Oddly enough, that paid more than a job with my marketing degree would have. After 10 years of doing something you love, you may as well just keep on doing it.” To contact KG Contracting visit kgcontractingmn.com or call (651) 207-3055

Minneapolis Lakes | March 2021

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CityLifestyle.com/MinneapolisLakes

CULINARY CREATIONS

Wi ne, Food, a nd t he Com for t of Home ARTICLE DANIEL BRASHI

SO MUCH SUGGESTS HOW WE ENJOY WINE. Most often it is our setting. Whenever we’ve sipped on a glass at a Fattoria in Italy, Domaine or Chateau in France, Bodega in Spain or Chateau Bodega Domaine in California we are experiencing and tasting the place itself. It’s hard to deny manicured or wild vines, a sunset, mountains, a small and extremely hospitable host. These places offer ease and relaxation, but decisions are made easily and often by someone else, whether it be by a winemaker or a curated list. To have things handed to us is nice but oftentimes making things and taking things home is better. To be truthful, some of our greatest experiences with wine have happened in house: alone or with friends and family. At home you can experiment by trying a wine out of a different glass, playing around with decanters, and truly deciding if you like wine in its youth or reaching maturity. Discovering the importance of how your wine has been stored is also key. Has it been in control of humidity? Have the wines been on their side or upside down? Have they been stored dark and cool? 45 to 65 F is a great window, but around 55 degrees is best. Too cold can advance a cork into drying out. Although storing a wine on its side isn’t a must, it will help to keep that cork wet. Don’t worry too much about humidity. Around 70 percent is nice, but a few percentages this way and that won’t hurt the wine that much. Keep in mind most wine was shipped in a container over the open ocean. Wines are durable. Consistency is important. Just remember to avoid major swings in light/dark, humid/dry, cold/warm. 34

Minneapolis Lakes | March 2021

NEW IDEAS FOR A UNIQUE EXPERIENCE

Right now your dollar also goes a lot further at home. Find a local store you trust and ask about some of those rare bottles you’ve seen or read about. In a retail setting you’ll likely be able to buy two for the price of one. In the comfort and creativity of your own kitchen, you can have an Alsace inspired lunch of Pinot Blanc and Tarte Flambee or Quiche Lorraine. On a cold night, grab a bottle of Cote Rotie and barbecue some duck breasts. Drink and eat at your own pace, relaxing and enjoying what is around you, like loved ones, or that bottle of vintage rose champagne and roast venison. Curl up by that beautiful fire place and grab a bottle of Quinterelli or Dal Forno Amarone and a plate of pheasant with walnuts and truffle. But, don’t forget to treat yourself to dessert! Pedro Ximenez Sherry with biscotti or almond cookies, Sauternes with strawberries and cream or crème brulee. Vintage Port with Stilton accompanied by nut and dried fruits, or be adventurous with 20 year white port and include olives and salted almonds. However you make a memory or stamp a room with your own touch, remember to go big, go decadent and always have an extra bottle at hand! Daniel Brashi is a wine buyer at South Lyndale Liquors. Find a great selection at www.southlyndale.com or in person at 7300 Lyndale Avenue South (612) 827-5811. Follow @southlyndaleliquors.com

CityLifestyle.com/MinneapolisLakes

TREND SETTER

WALLPAPER IS MAKING A COMEBACK!

TRENDS FOR 2021

PHOTOGRAPHY BY HIRSHFIELD'S AND THIBAUT

WALLPAPER IS BACK IN A BIG BOLD WAY WITH NOT ONLY FRESH, INSPIRING DESIGNS, BUT WELCOME Gorgeous

FUNCTIONAL grass

cloths

UPDATES. are

being

joined by large scale patterns, panoramic murals of all design styles and exotic textures like shells and straw. Wallcoverings are adding drama to bedrooms, baths and main living area walls in addition to a fabulous new location: ceilings! And the ceilings aren’t just acting as a complement to other designs, they are their own statement. Dark and organic colors have been trending and they’re especially present in wall coverings as deep greens, navy and charcoal. With wellness in the home being a continuing trend, nature and the love for botanical designs are a strong design element in wallpaper, bringing the outside in and creating a sense of calm. Thibaut’s Tiverton Kingdom Parade

Minneapolis Lakes | March 2021

Patterns from any era can create an instant vibe. Looking for fresh Mod shapes, a shiny metal Art Deco backdrop or a warm and welcoming linen texture? There are thousands of designs and colors to customized papers.

WA L L PA P E R

choose from. And you can take it one step further with

Peel & Stick wallpapers are a great option when you want something a bit more temporary. Hirshfield’s car-

ries a line from Minneapolis designer, Robin Ann Meyer, with fun ready-made designs that you can have created in your favorite colors. Robin’s Peel & Stick wallcoverings are a great alternative to traditional pasted wall-

coverings. Easy and mess-free to install; easy removal with no damage to the wall. Made here in Minneapolis

by Robin using sustainable digital printing technology and eco-friendly water based inks.

Ready to get inspired? Stop by one of our Hirshfield’s

Tiverton

stores and peruse sample books with the help of one of our wall covering specialists who can not only help you find the

right accent, they can advise on application, durability and coordinating colors. Selections do vary by store. You’ll find

the largest book libraries at Hirshfield’s stores in Edina and

Roseville and at Hirshfield’s Design Resource Showroom in Minneapolis. www.hirshfields.com

Cardinals Embrace

wallpaper is a modernized take on a classic design featuring painterly flowers and fern. Leaves, palm fronds and trees in large patterns and in mural scenes are visual stunners. Cork, wicker and other organic elements are popular choices. Textures have a way of transforming a room. Added depth and dimension to the walls makes a room feel warm and complete. There is a big world of embossed vinyl and natural grasscloth wallcoverings to shop. When it comes to needing durability (think mudrooms, hallways, kitchens, playrooms), embossed vinyl wallcoverings like Woodrow and Fine Harvest are your go-to’s. These heavy-duty wallcoverings can be wiped clean. There are so many beautiful designs, you’ll have a hard time trying to figure out that it’s not the real thing. Natural grasscloth wallcoverings like Shang Extra Fine Sisal and Mosaic Weave are made with real woven materials and the beauty is in their inherent nature.

Jordan

CityLifestyle.com/MinneapolisLakes

GET INSPIRED EAT + DRINK SHOP LOCAL City Lifestyle YOUR DIGITAL DESTINATION FOR LOCAL LIVING

Minneapolis Lakes | March 2021

One of the best meals you’ve never made. Easter made easy. At Kowalski’s, our holiday meals are prepared by hand, with the best ingredients possible, like cage-free eggs in our Signature quiche, Naturally Raised spiral-cut ham, not one, but four types of cheese in our customer-favorite hash browns plus fresh squeezed orange juice. They’re holiday meals made the way you’d make them at home, but you don’t have to! In addition to quiche breakfasts, we offer ham dinners including all the sides, rolls and even dessert! Meals are available for in-store pickup, curbside pickup and delivery.

The joy of good food to go. Order online at kowalskis.com or call 651-313-6870 while supplies last.

Kowalski’s Signature Quiche Breakfast.

11 Twin Cities Locations |

W W W. K O WA L S K I S . C O M