Client Perspectives
“Our home has surpassed all our expectations. Each moment spent within its walls reveals the meticulous thought and intention poured into its design, cultivating a palpable sense of joy and contentment…”
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Our home has surpassed all our expectations. Each moment spent within its walls reveals the meticulous thought and intention poured into its design, cultivating a palpable sense of joy and contentment. The layout effortlessly emanates a "feeling good" vibe, exceeding even our loftiest hopes. It's remarkable to reflect on the countless details we hadn't considered, seamlessly integrated to create this haven we now call home. We're filled with gratitude for the exquisite design you've bestowed upon us. The flood of compliments we receive is a testament to your exceptional work, for which you all deserve credit. Thank you for gifting us with a sanctuary of peace, happiness, and love—a treasure we'll cherish for generations to come.
- Jeff W., Northwestern Wisconsin
TEA2 embraced our vision: a modern, yet timeless, stone manor – one that was not cold, wet, dark or heavy. They nailed in on the very first sketch – with...
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TEA2 embraced our vision: a modern, yet timeless, stone manor – one that was not cold, wet, dark or heavy. They nailed in on the very first sketch – with strength and permanence, melded into the mountain and reflecting the serenity of Lake Waramaug and the Litchfield Hills beyond. Moreover, and completely unexpectedly, they imbued it with an inspiring grace, a warm charm, surreal details, and breathtaking beauty!
- Dale G., Lake Waramaug, CT
“They were excellent at listening to our vision and reducing it to a design that incorporated great insight and imagination. They were particularly helpful in overseeing the construction…”
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“We had a terrific experience with TEA2 in building a new home… They were attentive to our needs and respectful of the style and impact our new home would have on the neighborhood. They were excellent at listening to our vision and reducing it to a design that incorporated great insight and imagination. They were particularly helpful in overseeing the construction and assuring that plans were meticulously executed. They are artists and engineers with great taste. Always available. Always responsive. Considerate, empathetic, and trustworthy.”
- Adrienne & Steve O., Minneapolis, MN
“TEA2 did a complete remodel of our 50+ year old home. They were great advocates during the process, knowledgeable, positive and professional…"
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“TEA2 did a complete remodel of our 50+ year old home. They were great advocates during the process, knowledgeable, positive and professional. They explained things carefully, listened to and understood our wants and needs. They are amazing artists, a joy to work with and we couldn't recommend them more highly!”
- Lisa S., Deephaven, MN
“The impeccable interiors were carefully planned—from the art displays, perfectly laid out, to the windows, skylights, and the beautiful millwork, which is some of the loveliest…”
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“The impeccable interiors were carefully planned—from the art displays, perfectly laid out, to the windows, skylights, and the beautiful millwork, which is some of the loveliest and most tastefully done that we have ever seen. The perfect balance between the numerous materials used can’t be overstated. There is richness yet simplicity to the design, which makes for a very comfortable living space. We love our home!”
- Diane S., Arizona
“They have amazing vision and the skills to match. They helped create the homeowners’ vision by mixing various architectural styles seamlessly…”
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“TEA2 is great. They have amazing vision and the skills to match. They helped create the homeowners’ vision by mixing various architectural styles seamlessly. They accomplished this all while simultaneously taking into account the practical consideration necessary for the home to be a livable convenient structure.”
- Lynn M., Birmingham, AL
“When we purchased our 1940s stone and shingle home, we knew there would be challenges in creating a more open floor plan and in bringing more light into the north-facing kitchen…”
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“When we purchased our 1940s stone and shingle home, we knew there would be challenges in creating a more open floor plan and in bringing more light into the north-facing kitchen. TEA worked with us to find a solution that has exceeded all expectations. The millwork and architectural details add immeasurably to the appeal of the living spaces. Our project was completed four years ago, and we continue to be amazed at the compliments we receive on our home.”
- Cheryl A., Edina, MN
“TEA2’s ability to execute any style home from modern to classic is unmatched...”
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“TEA2’s ability to execute any style home from modern to classic is unmatched. I believe their design is second to none in Minnesota. I would argue TEA2 is one of the best residential architecture firms in the country.”
- Tom W., Edina, MN
“From the minute we walked into their office we knew we were home, and it panned out as we expected—top shelf! Attention to details was unsurpassed…”
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“TEA2 Architects… What can we say—they are awesome! From the minute we walked into their office we knew we were home, and it panned out as we expected—top shelf! Attention to details was unsurpassed. And some unique changes along the way just made it that much better. We love our home!!”
- Lisa & Ron H., Harvard, IL
“TEA2 is such a talented and collaborative firm! My husband and I were working in Italy but wanted to start planning our retirement home for when we returned…”
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TEA2 is such a talented and collaborative firm! My husband and I were working in Italy but wanted to start planning our retirement home for when we returned. We had noted that a majority of our favorite homes on Houzz were designed by TEA2. TEA2 was very thorough in explaining the process of arriving at a design, the timeline, and the estimated cost as well as listening to our needs and wants in the design. TEA2 was always professional, patient, and reassuring during a personal process which can be stressful when communicating between Italy, Minnesota, and North Carolina. We are extremely pleased with our home design and absolutely recommend TEA2 for anyone looking for a talented architectural firm.”
- Debra P., Connelly Springs, NC
“We purchased a property in a well-established neighborhood (1895) and were challenged to build a home that blended into the aesthetic of the period homes surrounding us."
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"We purchased a property in a well-established neighborhood (1895) and were challenged to build a home that blended into the aesthetic of the period homes surrounding us. Their design was exactly what we had in mind and accomplished all that we asked. We've had so many compliments, not only from passersby but also by all of the contractors and subcontractors. We would highly recommend TEA2 to anyone that is looking for a highly talented design team that not only does their homework but also listens to the needs of their clients.”
- Ann & Ray S., St. Paul
“Our family had grown but our house had not! We needed a house that better fit our needs now—but also with an eye to the future. TEA2 delivered everything we asked for and more…”
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“Our family had grown but our house had not! We needed a house that better fit our needs now—but also with an eye to the future. TEA2 delivered everything we asked for and more. It was a pleasure to work with them. They listened to our list of needs as well as our wishes and provided us with a well functioning, beautiful home. We couldn't be happier.”
- Marsha S., Minnetonka, MN
“Our goal was to create a home that felt like it was built in the early 1900s but with all of the modern conveniences, and TEA2 accomplished our goal completely…”
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“TEA2 has been involved with our project for all four phases: house and carriage house, garden house, underground banquet room and clock tower entrance, and finally the underground garage and workshop. The biggest compliment we get is when people ask how old the house is and we reply with, ‘We built it,’ and they apologize thinking the house was built many years ago. Our goal was to create a home that felt like it was built in the early 1900s but with all of the modern conveniences, and TEA2 accomplished our goal completely.”
- Warren H., Minnetrista, MN
Builders & Designers Perspectives
“Quite simply, TEA2 is the best residential architecture firm with whom we have worked…”
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“To put things in context, in our 30‐year history, we have worked with nearly all of the best residential architects in the Twin Cities. That considerable frame of reference puts us in a unique position to offer comparisons. Quite simply, TEA2 is the best residential architecture firm with whom we have worked.”
- Award‐winning general contractor with 30 years of high‐end residential experience
“The level of detail they produce gives us the tools to deliver accurate pricing and scheduling as well as keep production time to a minimum...”
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“As a general contracting firm with over 40 years of combined experience, we have worked with many architecture firms. I can attest that TEA2 has a unique approach I have not encountered elsewhere. Dan Nepp and his team are adept at crafting details that layer, to achieve a depth tailored for every project. The level of detail they produce gives us the tools to deliver accurate pricing and scheduling as well as keep production time to a minimum.”
- High‐end general contractor with 40 years of combined experience
“TEA2 Architects consistently produce the best-designed projects around…”
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“TEA2 Architects consistently produce the best-designed projects around. From the overall design, to the drawings and specifications, to the project supervision, they are head and shoulders above their competition. If anyone is in the market looking for the very best in design, then TEA2 Architects is the best choice.”
- Award‐winning general contractor
“From kitchen remodels to new homes, modern to very traditional, they can do it all…”
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“We have had the distinct pleasure to collaborate on many projects with TEA2 Architects over the past 15 years. We highly appreciate and admire the level of detail and thoroughness exhibited in all of their plans and specifications. From kitchen remodels to new homes, modern to very traditional, they can do it all.”
- High‐end general contractor
“By providing comprehensive plans and specs up front, TEA2 helps improve project coordination and minimize change orders, allowing us to adhere to the project timeline…”
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“At every step of the design and construction process, the TEA2 team went above and beyond, and the finished project is testament to your passion for excellence. While this caliber of work may be ‘business as usual’ for your firm, I believe it’s becoming a rarity in this business. Having been in the industry for 30 years, I have worked with numerous architects on more than 1,000 new construction or remodeling projects. Over the last 10‐15 years, I have seen a continuous decline in the quality of plans and specs. While this may be the result of pressure to reduce total design fees, this cost‐cutting measure does not eliminate the expense, as the work still has to be done by someone on the team. Your highly detailed plans and specs...make it easy for us to accurately bid the job, as we donʹt have to guess at the intent of your design. Your teamʹs meticulousness also eliminates the need for builders to make design decisions on site. While these individuals may excel at their jobs, they typically arenʹt the right people to decide the color and width of the grout, the placement of light fixtures, and other important (and highly visible) design details! By providing comprehensive plans and specs up front, TEA2 helps improve project coordination and minimize change orders, allowing us to adhere to the project timeline. This reduces stress on our clients, saves time and money, and ensures that the finished spaces are exactly what our clients envisioned.”
- Award‐winning general contractor with 30 years of high‐end residential experience
“Some of your creations challenge even the best of us, but make us better for it…”
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“Being in the custom-cabinet industry and having the pleasure of working on several of your projects, I recognize and greatly respect your diverse design capabilities. Some of your creations challenge even the best of us, but make us better for it. Keep up the great work!”
- T.M., Fine-cabinet maker with 27 years of designing and building experience
“Their project teams are highly professional and the level of detail in their plans and specifications are second to none…”
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“I have collaborated with TEA2 Architects on many projects over the past 16 years. Their project teams are highly professional and the level of detail in their plans and specifications are second to none. They have challenged us as a manufacturer to push the limits in design while keeping function and performance in the forefront. They are a true design team!”
- J.B., Interior designer
“I have observed first‐hand the respect and manner in which they work to provide their clients with beautiful, creative solutions specialized for each homeowner’s individual needs…”
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“As a professional interior designer I have had the joy of working with TEA2 on several of their residential projects. I value not only their quality drawings, attention to detail, and commitment to designing with architectural integrity—but more importantly, I have observed first‐hand the respect and manner in which they work to provide their clients with beautiful, creative solutions specialized for each homeowner’s individual needs. TEA2 navigates the architectural process with the utmost of professionalism and creates work that stands apart from others in the field... Simply the best!”
- S.W., Interior designer
“I referred a current client, who has thanked me profusely for introducing her to TEA2…”
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“TEA2 Architects are amazingly talented, professional, and thorough. I referred a current client, who has thanked me profusely for introducing her to TEA2. This project involves adding warmth and character to an existing home through the addition of gorgeous wood and millwork detailing, and a beautiful new front-door design. Whether new construction or remodeling, I highly recommend TEA2 to anyone who desires a top-quality experience.”
- J.H., Interior designer
Awards
Midwest Home Design Awards, 2023
Contemporary Farmhouse
view project1st Place, Category: Contemporary Architecture up to 4,000 square feet
Midwest Home Design Awards, 2023
Contemporary Farmhouse
view project1st Place, Category: Traditional Architecture up to 4,000 square feet
Midwest Home Design Awards, 2023
Sunny Lake Home
view project2nd Place Tie, Category: Traditional Architecture more than 4,000 square feet
Midwest Home Design Awards, 2023
Stone and Shingle Courtyard Home
view project2nd Place Tie, Category: Traditional Architecture up to 4,000 square feet
Midwest Home Design Awards, 2023
Stone and Shingle Courtyard Home
view project2nd Place, Category: Traditional Living Room/Great Room
Midwest Home Design Awards, 2023
Tudor Reawakened
view project2nd Place, Category: Traditional Interior Design
Midwest Home Design Awards, 2023
Tudor Reawakened
view project1st Place, Category: Small-Space Remodel
Midwest Home Design Awards, 2023
Stone and Shingle Courtyard Home
view project1st Place, Category: Traditional Foyer
Midwest Home Design Awards, 2023
Lakeview Shingle Style
view project3rd Place, Category: Traditional Foyer
Midwest Home Design Awards, 2022
Waterfront Stone and Glass
view projectCategory: Exterior use of Stone
Midwest Home Design Awards, 2022
Waterfront Stone and Glass
view projectCategory: Traditional Architecture over 4,000 square feet
Midwest Home Design Awards, 2021
Charming Hopkins Porch
Category: Conservatory/Screen Room/Sunroom
Midwest Home Design Awards, 2021
Nantucket Re-creation
view project2nd Place, Category: Remodel over 1,000 square feet
Midwest Home Design Awards, 2021
East Harriet Renewal
Category: Deck/Patio/Porch
RAVE Award, 2018
Craftsman Addition & Restoration
view project2nd Place, Category: Remodel 800 - 3,500 square feet
RAVE Award, 2018
Arts & Crafts Revival
Category: Remodel 800 - 3,500 square feet
BLEND Award, 2018
Arts & Crafts Revival
Category: Addition/Remodel
BLEND Award, 2018
East Harriet Revival
Category: Addition/Remodel
BLEND Award, 2018
Lake Place Prairie
Category: New Construction
BLEND Award, 2018
Crocus Hill Shingle Style
Category: New Construction
Marvin Architect’s Challenge, 2018
Excelsior Bayside Cottage
view projectCategory: Best Traditional New Construction
RAVE Award, 2017
Family Heritage Cottage
view project2nd Place, Category: New Home more than 3,500 square feet
RAVE Award, 2017
Kenwood Shingle Style Cottage
view projectCategory: New Home more than 3,500 square feet
BLEND Award, 2017
A Glorious New Garage
Category: Small Project
Minneapolis Heritage Preservation Award, 2017
Craftsman Cottage Addition & Remodel
Category: New Addition to a Historic Building
BLEND Award, 2016
Craftsman Cottage Addition & Remodel
Category: Addition/Remodel
Minneapolis Heritage Preservation Award, 2016
New Addition to a Historic Building
BLEND Award, 2015
Lake Harriet Charmer Revitalized
Category: Addition/Remodel
Home of the Month Award, 2015
Macalester Park Makeover
RAVE Award, 2015
Wild About Jones
2nd Place, Category: Outbuilding/Detail/Special Project, less than 800 square feet
RAVE Award, 2015
Rustic Retreat
view project2nd Place, Category: New Home, more than 3,500 square feet
RAVE Award, 2015
White Oaks Addition & Remodel
Category: Bath
BLEND Award, 2014
Wild About Jones
Category: Remodel or Addition
BLEND Award, 2014
Light In Context
Category: Remodel or Addition
RAVE Award, 2014
Transformed Traditional
view project2nd Place, Category: Remodel/Addition More Than 3,500 Square Feet
Home of the Month Award, 2013
Modern Mediterranean
RAVE Award, 2013
Gate & Carriage House
view projectCategory: Outbuilding/ Detail Project Less Than 800 SF
RAVE Award, 2013
Chagrin Falls Addition
Category: Remodel More Than 3,500 SF
RAVE Award, 2013
Modern Mediterranean
Category: Remodel/Renovation/Addition Less Than 800 SF
BLEND Award, 2012
Lake of the Isles Revival
Category: Remodel or Addition
BLEND Award, 2012
Mediterranean Revival
Category: Remodel or Addition
Architect of Distinction Award, 2010
Tom Ellison
Heritage Preservation Award by the Minneapolis Heritage Preservation Commission, 2010
Mediterranean Revival
Home of the Month Award, 2009
Curved Appeal
RAVE Award, 2009
Mediterranean Revival
Home of the Month Award, 2009
Balsam Lake Retreat
Architect of Distinction Award, 2008
Dan Nepp
Home of the Month Award, 2007
Seamless Neighbor
RAVE Award, 2007
Seamless Neighbor
Home of the Month Award, 2007
Rooms for All Seasons
Home of the Month Award, 2007
Forward Thinking
Home of the Month Award, 2005
Nautical Hideaway
Home of the Month Award, 2005
An Old New House
St. Paul Chapter of the AIA Award, 1996
Summit Avenue House
St. Paul Historic Preservation Commission Award, 1996
Summit Avenue House
Renovation CUE (Committee on Urban Environment) Award, 1994
Old Fire Station 28
Publications
Book: Boathouses of Lake Minnetonka
“A Contemporary Boathouse” June, 2017
Star Tribune: Homes
“Classic foursquare is kept in character” March 6, 2016
Spaces
“Change is Good: Historic Tudor in Edina” February/March, 2015
Mpls. St.Paul Magazine: Home & Design
“Design 100: No. 88 Light Slot Wine Cellar” October, 2014
Midwest Home
“Infill that Fits: Rebuilt Not Replaced” June/July, 2014
Star Tribune: Homes
“Modern Mediterranean” September 1, 2013
Architecture MN
Studio: TEA2 Architects, May/June, 2013
Old House Journal
“Old-House Insider: Saving Face” April/May, 2013
Book: Legendary Homes of the Minneapolis Lakes
“The LeJeune Morgan House 1996” July 4, 2012
Star Tribune: Homes
“Everyday Solutions: Creating a better dog kennel” May 26, 2012
Trends: Kitchen
“All Fired Up” Vol. 28 No. 2, 2012
Trends: Home and Remodeling
“Character unveiled” Vol. 27 No.2, 2011
Star Tribune: Homes
“8 Steps to Vintage Charm” December 19, 2010
Licensed Architect
“Featured Architect” Summer: Vol. 14 No. 2, 2010
Remodel
“Craftsman Character” May, 2010
Midwest Home
“Delighting with Impeccable Design” April/May, 2010
Star Tribune: Homes
“Revival Redux” January 10, 2010
Book: Perspectives on Design
“Perspectives on Design” 2009
Midwest Home
“Splendid Serendipity” November/December, 2009
Remodel
“Charmed Life” October/November, 2009
Remodel
“Above and Beyond” October/November, 2009
Trends: Home & Architectural
“Solid Success” Vol. 25 No. 1, 2009
Book: Not So Big Remodeling
“Not So Big Remodeling” 2009
Mpls. St.Paul Magazine: Home
“Mediterranean Revival” Summer, 2009
Star Tribune: Homes
“Creating a cottage” August 1, 2009
Trends: Kitchen
“Prairie School influence” Vol. 25 No. 2, 2009
Star Tribune: Homes
“Curved Appeal” February 7, 2009
Better Homes and Gardens: New Home
“No Sacrifice” August, 2008
Fine Homebuilding:Houses
“Neighborly From the Start” Spring/Summer, 2008
Midwest Home
“Grown Up Whimsy” March, 2008
Midwest Home
“Romancing the Home” February, 2008
Star Tribune: Homes
“Small site, big style” December, 2007
Book: Dream Homes: Minnesota
“Dream Homes: Minnesota” 2007
Book: Lakeside Living
“Lakeside Living” 2007
Star Tribune: Homes
“Rooms for all seasons” August 1, 2007
Better Homes and Gardens: Remodel
“Comfort Defined” August/September, 2007
Star Tribune: Homes
“Forward Thinking” March 3, 2007
Remodel
“Orderly Fashion” February/March, 2007
Spaces
“A Home for Two” Spring/Summer, 2006
Minnesota Moments
“Granite (Cold Spring home…)” March/April, 2006
Book: Idea Wise: Basements and Attics
“Basements and Attics” 2006
Lakestyle Magazine
“Lighthouse Tower Provides Stunning Views of the Apostle Islands” Winter, 2005
Mpls. St.Paul Magazine
“Russian With Love” September, 2005
Star Tribune: Homes
“Nautical Hideaway” September 3, 2005
Fine Homebuilding: Houses
“Follow the Light” Spring/Summer, 2005
Star Tribune: Homes
“An Old New House” February 5, 2005
Book: Home by Design
“A Not So Little Cottage” 2004
Style
“Natural Beauty” July/August, 2004
Midwest Home & Garden
“Grand Rounds” July/August, 2004
Midwest Home & Garden
“Old World anew” July/August, 2004
Midwest Home & Garden
“Singular Space-Kitchen” December 3 / January 4, 2004
Midwest Home & Garden
“Lumiere du Nord” September, 2003
Midwest Home & Garden
“Honoring Traditions: Kosher Kitchen” October/November, 2002
Decorating Ideas
“Perfect Harmony” Fall, 2002
Old House Interiors
“The Garaj Mahal” August/September, 2002
Better Homes and Gardens: Remodeling Planning & Products Guide
“Stairway to Heaven” Spring/Summer, 2001
Better Homes and Gardens: Beautiful New Homes
“Lakeside Escape” Spring, 2001
Book: Garage
“French Country Garage” 2001
Midwest Home & Garden
“Home Sweet Riverboat” June/July, 2000
Traditional Home
“A True Cottage” May, 2000
Log Home Living
“Repeat Performance” April, 2000
Renovation Style
“Solid Geometry” Spring, 2000
Trends: Home & Architectural
“Made to Match” Vol.16 No. 4, 2000
Renovation Style
“Seasons of Light” Winter, 1999
Mpls. St.Paul Magazine
“And the Winners Are…” September, 1999
Renovation Style
“Adding On Branching Out” Fall, 1999
Better Home and Gardens: Remodeling Ideas for Your Home
“Window of Opportunity” Summer, 1999
Fine Home Building: Houses
“An Undesigned House” Spring/Summer, 1999
Midwest Home & Garden
“Timeless Treasure” October 1998
Better Homes and Gardens: Kitchen Planning Guide
“Standout Style” 1998
Better Homes and Gardens: Home Plan Ideas
“Hilltop Sun-Catcher” Fall, 1997
Better Homes and Gardens: Home Plan Ideas
“Contemporary Statements of the Past” Winter, 1996
Renovation Style
“Seasoned to Taste” Winter, 1996
Better Homes and Gardens
Better by Design: A House with Character, February, 1996
Mpls. St.Paul Magazine
Character Counts, January, 1996
Minnesota Monthly
A House for Russian Art, September, 1994
Mpls. St.Paul Magazine
The Architect Listens, January, 1993
Mpls. St.Paul Magazine
The Ellison Edge, September, 1990
Remodeling
Remodeling, October, 1988
Homes
- Modern English Lakeside
- Lakeview Modern
- Waterfront Stone and Glass
- Sunny Lake Home
- Sonoran Modern
- Contemporary Prairie Style
- Linden Hills Cottage
- Lakeview Shingle Style
- Kenwood Shingle Style Cottage
- Timeless Lake Home
- Calhoun Contemporary
- Excelsior Bayside Cottage
- Modern English Country House
- Minnetonka Shingle Style
- Contemporary Cape Cod
- Stone and Shingle Courtyard Home
- Equestrian Country House
- Italian Villa
- Edina Arts & Crafts
- Shingle Style Reimagined
- Modern English Cottage
- Bluffside Home
Renovations
- Tudor Reawakened
- City Cottage Reimagined
- Nantucket Re-Creation
- Minneapolis Oasis
- Contemporary Coronado Condo
- Nouvelle French Kitchen
- Transformed Tudor
- Nautical Shingle Style
- English Arts & Crafts Revival
- Craftsman Addition & Restoration
- Transformed Traditional
- Gambrel Georgian Revealed
- Tangletown Addition
- Edina Classical
- Sunnyside Addition
- Oak Knoll Transformation
- English Country Addition
- Minnehaha Woods Renovation
- St. Paul Transformation
- Deephaven Revival
Retreats
- Modern Scandinavian Retreat
- Modern Scandinavian Cabin
- Rocky Mountain Retreat
- Contemporary Farmhouse
- Rustic Retreat
- Rustic Bunkhouse
- St. Croix Riverfront Retreat
- Family Heritage Cottage
- Wisdom Woods
- Lake Superior Retreat
- Modern English Manor
- Cabin Retreat
- Park Point Home
- Shingle Style Lake Home
- Storybook Mountain Estate
- Balsam Lake Retreat