Minneapolis Lakes, MN September 2024

Promenade Limited Edition Tangente 38 Date From NOMOS Glashütte

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Stylin' This September

Is it really September already? I can’t believe it. Hopefully, things are smoothly evolving back into a typical fall routine. The Minneapolis Lakes Lifestyle kick off to fall is always marked by our Style issue, and it's a fun one encompassing many different areas. From accessories to fashion, to closets and design, style is in our lives daily, and is original and unique to everyone. I believe that getting to express one’s authentic style is a key to health and happiness.

We had a blast incorporating some fall fashion with the Serge + Jane team (store owner Jamie Carl, stylist Grant Whittaker, models Hannah and Jered, and photographer Andrew Vick) to showcase some of the season’s upcoming, cooler weather trends. Staged in iconic parts of this local, three-level boutique, Serge + Jane is filled with men’s and women’s fashion, kids' clothing, pet treats and accessories, gift ideas and even vinyl for the music lovers. It’s not just a locally owned boutique, it is an experience.

Locally owned Masa Modern Homes has completed several projects in the Minneapolis Lakes area you might recognize. Duo John and Sherri are the creators and curators of style behind this luxury, residential design firm. By optimizing space and using tons of natural light, Masa’s strength lies in creating modern and beautiful indoor and outdoor masterpieces.

If you currently love your space, then you already know the home is such an expression of personal style. Our team spoke with Ingrained Wood Studios about their unique approach to design and quality. Custom doors, cabinetry, millwork and furniture are Ingrained Wood’s area of expertise that can take your home’s style to a new level.

If organization is on your wish list, Closet Factory has provided some design advice on what is currently trending. Whether you are in the market for a new closet, mudroom or pantry refresh, they have the perfect solution to fit your needs.

We can’t cover it all, but our team aspires to inspire our readers, connect the Minneapolis Lakes community, and support everything we can locally.

“Style is something each of us already has, all we need to do is find it.”  - Diane von Furstenberg

We hope you enjoy the issue!

September 2024

PUBLISHER

Alexandra Patty | alexandra.patty@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Sarah Knieff | sarah.knieff@citylifestyle.com

PUBLICATION DIRECTOR

Susan Shannon | susan.shannon@citylifestyle.com

MARKET SUPPORT COORDINATOR

Kassi Miranowski | kassi.miranowski@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Sue Baldani, Sarah Knieff, Cate Marian

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Alyssa Lee, Andrew Vick

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Zach Miller

LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsi Southard

ALEXANDRA PATTY, PUBLISHER @MINNEAPOLISLAKES

city scene

WHERE

NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

Business Speed Networking Event hosted by Yumi Sushi along with the Edina & Minneapolis Lakes Lifestyle team.

Meet MacPhail's new CEO, Paul Babcock

The MacPhail Center for Music’s new CEO Paul Babcock is excited to officially start his new role this month. “I believe that access to music education is vitally important to our community and our society. I look forward to working closely with you, our fabulous community, as we innovate and expand music learning opportunities for students of all ages, backgrounds and abilities,” he states. Babcock has been acting as the CEO Emeritus since July 1 when the retiring CEO Kyle Carpenter passed the torch. Carpenter retired August 31. macphail.org

MÖV Hot Yoga Nourishes Your Mind and Body

Practicing at MÖV Hot Yoga isn’t just about getting a workout – it’s about nourishing your mind, body, and sense of belonging. After most classes, they offer a selection of Minnesota-based teas for students to enjoy a nice cuppa, sit together and connect. To sign up for a class, visit  movhotyoga.com. You can choose from 40 different classes weekly, each in different formats that are heated and unheated, shorter or longer, and with or without music.

Activate Your Money With Centered Wealth

Wellspoken and Centered Wealth Presents: A Women's Financial Empowerment & Impact Investing Brunch on Sept. 15 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Watson Block. "We invite you to embark on a transformative journey of wealth-building that aligns with your values and makes a positive impact on the world." This event is in collaboration with Invest for Better. Go to  eventbrite.com/e/activate-yourmoney for tickets.

BEAUTIFUL WOOD DESIGNS THAT STAND THE TEST OF TIME

Custom-Made Works of Art

ARTICLE BY SUE BALDANI | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ALYSSA LEE

Many things change over the years when it comes to home designs, but one thing that stays consistent is people’s desire for beautiful wooden cabinetry, doors and furniture that last.

Since 2003, Ingrained Wood Studios has been doing just that by taking rough hardwoods and turning them into works of art designed by architects and constructed by experienced artisans.

“We have people at our shops who really understand color selection and grain, so as they're selecting boards, they already know roughly how it's going to be used,” says Don Forsman, the president and former owner of the company. (Brian Ludvigson is the new owner.)

Don became involved in the construction industry in the late 70s, and early 80s as a carpenter and general contractor. “After being a general contractor for 20 years, I opened up a cabinetry shop that was mostly doing a lot of historical renovations and restorations. We outgrew that space, moved into another building and kept the old space. We've just collected space and people over the years, and we have some great talent.”

Throughout his career, he has enjoyed working with wood, a team that understands the finer points of woodworking, and his clients. “These days we're working for some fantastic design and architecture people that both challenge us and have high expectations, which we meet quite well,” says Don.

He explains there are a lot of characteristics to wood that many people don't understand. “We're in a very challenging climate here with the heat and humidity, so when it comes to anything made out of wood, our job is to create items and spaces that can actually breathe, move around and stay beautiful.”

Ingrained Wood Studios builds a lot of doors and because the outside may be exposed to the elements while the inside is not, his team has to choose the right types of wood. “We recently used white oak on the inside while having copper covering on the outside. It's a beautiful, beautiful door.”

White oak, says Don, has been in demand for almost a decade because it’s easily available in this part of the country and can have that aged or gray color that has been the trend for many years. “It's a very hard material that stands the test of time.”

Another recent project of Ingrained Wood was on Cedar Lake. “We made custom-recessed pulls in a lot of the cabinetry so that there was no hardware involved. We also developed this integral system in the pocket doors where you just stick your finger into the door and are able to open or close it.”

Besides White Oak, the team has also been using a lot of walnut recently. “We just completed a project on a new house that had a three-story staircase with walnut paneling on all the walls and the ceiling,” he says. Walnut has some unique color characteristics that are perfect for designs that require a very rich and dark wood.

No matter the project, all of these custom-made items are created in one of two production facilities located in Minneapolis and Bloomington. Along with doors, cabinetry and staircases, the team is often asked to build furniture, tabletops, fireplace surrounds and just about anything that people can dream up to make out of wood.

A big request right now are dog doors. “We have to build a disappearing door with no visible means of support that can be pulled closed to keep the dog out, but it can only be as tall as the dog. There's a lot of fun stuff happening out there.”

Since Don has been in the business for a long time, he loves visiting homes that he worked in 10 or 20 years ago. “People tell me how much they still absolutely love their spaces, and those spaces look the same as when I left.”

While he doesn’t do the actual woodworking any longer, he’s still very much involved in the day-to-day operations. “I’m engaged in every project and still oversee quality control to maintain c onsistency,” he says.

Chad Johnson, with whom Don has worked for over 40 years, is the current overseer of the entire operation. “He’s a vital part of the organization and an incredibly skilled craftsman who has an eye for detail like few people that I've ever known.”

Adds Don, “We have a great team here and I feel that a good architect coupled with our craftsmanship creates high quality pieces, and that's very satisfying to me.”

IngrainedWoodStudios.com

EVERY LEVEL OF FUN

ARTICLE BY SARAH KNIEFF PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANDREW VICK

THREE FLOORS OF CAREFULLY CURATED STYLE

Serge + Jane, a lifestyle boutique in Edina, is starting the fall season off right with a selection of clothing trends and accessories that are full of character.

Owners Casey and Jamie Carl created the store in honor of Serge Gainsbourg and Jane Birkin. Serge being a famous French musician, and Jane an English actress, singer, and Hermès muse for the Birkin bag; together the iconic duo created magic and mischief.

Inspired by the pair’s laid-back, rebellious, and passionate vibes, the Carls have matched the store’s decor and merchandise to fit this aesthetic. Offering three floors, each level has uniquely curated sections that feel like their own world.

Highlighted within are upcoming fall trends in fun Serge + Jane spaces. All outfits were assembled by stylist Grant Whittaker and Jamie Carl. Models are Hannan Peltier and Jered Sternaman.

OUTSIDE MURAL

Combining the Carls’ apparel line, North Coast Soul, and their favorite photo of Serge and Jane, the outside mural presents a vintage California vibe with pines of the North Coast.

Outfit details: Hannah is wearing the $290 Farm Rio Stitched Garden Midi Dress with a straw clutch. Jered is wearing $188 Rails pants, a $268 Rails blazer and $158 striped shirt from Faherty.

WET BAR

“We saw the Orange Big Chill Fridge by chance and fell in love with it, so we decided to make a vintage kitchen scene on our second level,” Jamie says. “We sell a lot of fun kitchenware, so the pairing works nicely."

On Hannah:  $54 One Teaspoon colorblock tank, $148 Free People chunky cardigan and $175 Lacoste tennis skirt. Jered is sporting a $98 Scotch & Soda waffle shirt, $238 Rails navy pants and $148 Rails denim shirt.

RECORD WALL

“Casey is a huge vinyl collector and hobbyist DJ, so it was natural for us to sell records in the store,” Jamie explains. “Serge was also a musician, so it’s another nod to him.”

Outfit details: Hannah is wearing the $425 Cynthia Rowley Leopard Satin Jacket paired with a $228 Pistola Jumpsuit, and Jered is wearing a $168 Rails quarter zip, $298 Scotch & Soda corduroy blazer and $148 Scotch & Soda plaid pants.

LEOPARD BATHROOM

All of the bathrooms in the store have unique wallpaper details, but the leopard is extra special. “I love animal patterns and am inspired by Gucci's Alessandro Michele use of animals in design,” Jamie says.

Outfit details: Hannah is wearing the $268 One Teaspoon Studded Blazer, a $78 K Too bow dress and $158 Pistola faux leather pants.

ROOFTOP

“We found a picture of Jane on a swing and that inspired us to create the boxwood wall and swing on our rooftop.”

Outfit details: Hannah is wearing the $210 Farm Rio Anika Flowers Dress, and Jered is wearing a $178 Rails crew sweater, $298 Rails navy blazer and $168 Scotch & Soda denim pants.

4532 France Ave. S | 612-315-4638 sergeandjane.com

Grant Whittaker, Creative Producer and Stylist

You can’t talk about local fashion without a nod to Grant Whittaker. He is a go-to fashion expert, who has helped bring the Twin Cities into the fashion limelight. Raised in Germany and surrounded by European fashion, style has always come naturally to him. But, more importantly, he has the imagination to take things one step further. Blend this fashion expertise with his extensive knowledge of the industry – retail, editorial, merchandising, production, buying, and fashion events – and you end up with pure style. Check him out on Instagram, @grantwcreative.

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Designing and Building Homes for the Modern Owner

Sherri and John of Masa Modern Homes Share Their Journey

From “The Shack” to High-End Estates

“We take pride in creating spaces that challenge conventional aesthetics, striking a balance between bold choices and timeless elegance.”

Six years ago, when couple Sherri Beier and John Nyagaka first crossed paths, they were immersed in vastly different careers. Sherri was working in events and operations at the Walker Art Center, while John thrived in the tech industry. However, beyond their professional lives, they shared a passion for real estate that would soon become the cornerstone of their journey together.

“Before we officially started our business, Masa Modern Homes, we were just two people dabbling in investment ventures,” Sherri explains. “We would buy duplexes and undertake small renovations – it was nothing major.”

Early on, Sherri decided to get her real estate license to make the couple’s own dealings easier and help some friends with their property sales.

“After a few projects, John and I both found that we had an aptitude for real estate and home design, which further piqued our interest in this industry.”

Inspired by this interest and creativity, Sherri enrolled in the Interior Design Program at the Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) to enhance her skills while simultaneously working on their first

ARTICLE BY SARAH KNIEFF

complete renovation — a small 400-foot home John had acquired before they met, affectionately known as "the shack."

With big dreams, the pair decided to tear down “the shack” and start from scratch, reveling in the hard work and learning experiences that came with it.

“Once ‘the shack’ was complete, we acquired additional properties to design and build, and John pursued his builder's contractor license. People also started coming to us for help with designing their homes and very quickly our ‘small’ side project was turning into a fully-fledged business,” Sherri says.

The couple recognized the potential to serve others seeking unique, modern homes, leading them to establish Masa Modern Homes in 2021. Named after a term fondly used by John’s family in Kenya, the firm focuses on creating designs that inspire and innovate.

Masa’s services have since diversified into three main offerings around the lakes and throughout the Twin Cities. Those include: “We can design and build a completely unique home, do design-only projects and serve as a real estate agent where I also offer my expert staging services,” Sherri says.

What sets them apart? Their commitment to authenticity.

Sherri and John are determined to bring something fresh to their community. They aim to design homes that exude character and uniqueness, and break away from the trends. Each of their projects, while maintaining a cohesive design language, stands distinct with its own charm.

“We take pride in creating spaces that challenge conventional aesthetics, striking a balance between bold choices and timeless elegance,” John says.

Adds Sherri, “And we have fun with each design. Every home is very different, and no matter if we are building from the ground up or redesigning an existing structure, each space will feel fresh. We really think of everything: from lighting, decor, layout, cabinetry and everything else that makes a home.”

She continues, “For instance, when developing homes in Minneapolis, we are passionate about thoughtfully laying every inch of the home to ensure no wasted space because we aren’t dealing with a ton of square footage. We have to make sure the flow of the home is extremely well thought out.”

John aptly articulated their mission: to think outside the box and take risks in a market that often favors the mundane. By providing design choices that resonate with individuality, they inspire homeowners to embrace their distinct styles.

A recent project of theirs, 2200 Drew Ave. S, showcases the pair’s eye for design.

“This was a full gut renovation, where we took an older luxury home and gave it the love it deserved,” Sherri says. “We added 1,000 square feet, kept the original mid-century window shapes but made them larger, brought in all new luxury features and materials, and kept some of the home's original features such as the roof line, open steel mono staircase and wood clad walls.”

Sherri continues, “It’s also important to note that for this project, but really any project, we work with a budget in mind. We do build expensive homes, but there are ways to spend wisely. We work with the client to help them choose where to go all out and where to cut back a little. It’s all about balance.”

In an industry where conformity is the norm, Sherri and John stand firm in their belief that your home should not only be a place to live but a genuine reflection of who you are. By helping people bring their unique visions to life, they’ve built more than just a business; they’ve made a community where creativity thrives. With each new project, they remain committed to their shared passion, reminding themselves that this journey, rooted in fun and collaboration, is just the beginning.

4406 Beard Ave. S | 612-812-2952 masamodernhomes.com

WOMEN IN SOVIET

ARTICLE BY SARAH KNIEFF

calm TRANSFORMING CLUTTER INTO

CO-OWNER THERESA WILLIAMS OF CLOSET FACTORY CHATS HOME ORGANIZATION TRENDS AND HOW TO START A NEW CUSTOM PROJECT

What’s trending in home organization right now?

People are spending more time in their homes and they are looking to create an oasis of comfort. That might mean adding a pop of color, specialty lighting, glass inserts and other personal touches. At Closet Factory, we recently did a pantry in ivory with all backing in a beautiful wood grain – this was a fun project that highlighted the client’s personality. We are also getting a lot more requests for home offices, which isn’t too surprising since more professionals are working from home now.

"Our designers thrive on finding unique organizational solutions. They truly set themselves apart by listening to the client, understanding how the client lives, taking inventory of what the needs are and pulling it all together."

What’s new in closet design?

There is always something new in closet organization. On a regular basis we have clients with a unique idea for their closet. That is part of what sets us apart – we like to take on a challenge and think outside the box.  We also work well with slanted ceilings and creating beautiful organization in even the smallest spaces.

If someone wants to reorganize their closet, where do they start?

Close your eyes and walk into the closet of your dreams. Truly imagine it. Think about things you may want in your closet – drawers, shelving, hampers, a shoe display, etc. Open your eyes and prioritize the features you like. Write a list. Then invite one of our designers into your home to begin the collaboration process. Work with your designer to incorporate those imagined features you love the most. You’d be surprised how the designer can convert your closet dream into a reality.

How can Closet Factory help clients organize their entire homes?

We don’t limit ourselves to closets.  We can work throughout the home – office, library, pantry, laundry, garage, etc. Our designers thrive on finding unique organizational solutions. They truly set themselves apart by listening to the client, understanding how the client lives, taking inventory of what the needs are and pulling it all together.

1991 Annapolis Ln. N, Plymouth | 952-551-9100 closetfactory.com

FIND US ON INSTAGRAM! @MOVHOTYOGA | @THEMARKETPLACEBYMOV

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YOUR DRINK DRESS UP

THESE BEAUTIFUL BEVERAGES ARE SURE TO TURN HEADS

BLUE MARTINI

WITH FLORAL ICE CUBES

BOLD COLORS Fresh florals. An eye-catching shimmer. The perfect embellishment. We’re talking cocktails, not the catwalk. But like fashion, the art of mixology is full of ways to push the limits with creative twists on classic recipes, and unique adornments guaranteed to turn heads. There’s no reason your personal style can’t extend to the drink in your hand, and this botanical beverage is bound to taste as delicious as it looks.

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 ounces Absolut Citron

• 1/2 ounce Blue Curaçao

• 1/2 ounce lemonade

• 1 ounce Sprite

• Edible flowers such as rose, lavender, hibiscus and nasturtiums

DIRECTIONS:

Pour Sprite into ice cube trays and add edible flower combinations. Let freeze overnight. Combine Absolut Citron, Blue Curaçao, lemonade and ice cubes in martini shaker. Shake and strain into a martini glass.

Allow ice cubes to melt, gradually filling the glass with Sprite and garnishing the drink with beautiful botanicals.

ARTICLE BY CATE MARIAN

FIG + THYME

SPARKLING LEMONADE

INGREDIENTS: DIRECTIONS:

• thyme simple syrup

• 1/2 cup sugar

• 1/2 cup water

• 1 bunch thyme

• 2 fresh figs

• 3/4 ounce lemon juice

• 3/4 ounce thyme syrup

• 3/4 ounce Sprite

In a small saucepan, simmer sugar, water and thyme leaves over low heat for 5 minutes or until sugar is dissolved. Remove from heat and let the thyme infuse into the syrup for at least 10 minutes.

For the cocktail, muddle figs and lemon juice in the bottom of a glass. Add ice, 3/4 of the thyme syrup and Sprite. Stir and garnish with fig and a sprig of thyme.

SEPTEMBER 2024

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

SEPTEMBER 6TH - 29TH

Fall Parade of Homes

Twin Cities

Shop new homes. Find builders & remodelers. Get inspired. Discover your perfect home on the Twin Cities Parade of Homes and Remodelers Showcase. Tour hundreds of new homes and remodeled projects across Minnesota. paradeofhomes.org

SEPTEMBER 6TH - 8TH

Minneapolis Greek Fest

St. Mary’s Greek Orthodox Church

Try a variety of Greek cuisines from many local vendors, from pita appetizers to baklava desserts. Enjoy live music and dancing at both outdoor and indoor stages, and shop from Greek boutiques and a bookstore. mplsgreekfest.org.

SEPTEMBER 20TH - 22ND

Apple Days

Lake Minnetonka

Just a short drive from Minneapolis, experience Excelsior Apple Days – a cherished lakeside festival that unites our community, art, local flavors, and a classic street dance. Since 1935, this event has delighted fans with a day packed full of activities like craft booths, a kids' corner, food vendors, history tours, Apple Pie contests, live entertainment from local talents and renowned bands, and a lively beer and wine garden at the heart of it all! excelsiorlakeminnetonkachamber.com.

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SEPTEMBER 21ST & 22ND

Lola Art Crawl

Longfellow Neighborhood

The LoLa Art Crawl is a friendly neighborhood art tour among the bungalows, gardens, and small indie businesses of the Longfellow neighborhood of Minneapolis. LoLa artists and makers show and sell their work at homes and businesses throughout the neighborhood, with many sites hosting two or more artists together. All sites, both indoors and outside, are open to the public at no cost to visitors. olaart.org/lola-art-crawl.

SEPTEMBER 21ST

Walk to End Alzheimer's

Target Field | 8:00 AM

Walk to End Alzheimer's is the world's largest fundraiser for Alzheimer's care, support and research. This inspiring event calls on participants of all ages and abilities to join the fight against the disease. While there is no fee to register for the walk, all participants are encouraged to raise critical funds that allow the Alzheimer’s Association to provide care, support and advance research. act.alz.org

SEPTEMBER 22ND

Twin Cities Veg Fest

Harriet Island Park | 10:00 AM

Twin Cities Veg Fest is the Midwest’s largest free vegan festival! It’s an annual event with something for everyone including vegan food vendors, cooking demos, speakers, music, art, informational booths, and vegan product vendors. exploreveg.org.