At then end of a winding, secluded drive on a narrow peninsula on the St. Louis River sits our French inspired farmhouse with sweeping views of the St. Louis River corridor and Duluth hillside. The owners drew inspiration from their travels to the South of France, and wanted the look and feel of a traditional French farmhouse but with modern conveniences.
As you approach the house, you’re welcomed by a large pergola. The exterior of the home is reminiscent of the past with limestone and reclaimed timber that carries inside. A few exterior features that break the traditional mold are the large covered patio off the main room of the house and a rooftop deck.
The main living space is dressed in limestone with large vaulted ceilings, the master bedroom suite and sunroom located on either side appearing to be added over time as a nod to expanding a historic farmhouse. A gas fireplace anchors the space seeming to be carved out of limestone with large windows facing the river.
The sunroom has lower ceilings compared to the vaulted main room to keep with the theme behind the design of a traditional farmhouse with pieces added on over time. As you enter the kitchen from the sun room the shared wall with the kitchen is brick as though it was the previous exterior wall. The kitchen welcomes you with a large island serving a dual purpose for food prep and seating. The space also includes a limestone carved hood, ample counter space, and reclaimed timber beams.
The generous master bedroom and luxurious spa-like bath have a serene and calming quality achieved by a carefully curated palette of soft colors and textures. The colonial aesthetic is enhanced in the master bath by marble textures and painted wall panels. Accentuating the spa-like feel is a sunken wet space, highlighted by large windows and a vintage clawfoot tub.
Several materials are pulled throughout the house such as limestone interior and exterior walls, aged limestone flooring, and exposed timber beams. These details pay homage to the past while stark white ceilings, expansive windows, and gas fireplaces nod to the modern.
Formal dining room and grand staircase
Sunroom with views to the St. Louis River
Second story rooftop deck
Master bedroom
Photo Credit Andrea Rugg Photography
General Contractor Aaron Guski Construction
Structural Northland Consulting
Electrician Belknap Electric
Plumbing Caldwell Plumbing and Heating
project completed as part of the CF Design LTD design team