I still get goosebumps when I compare the ‘before and after’ photos.

I was honored to design this full renovation project located in Viola, Wisconsin, not far from the town where I grew up. The home owners had a clear vision of the possibilities for this run down house and intuitively knew it had another life to give. When I first saw the home, it looked as though it had been sitting there for over 100 years, waiting for someone to tear it down. While touring the house, I envisioned a forever home for my clients using simple materials, clean and modern lines, all while staying true to their minimalistic values.

A local builder was brought onto the job and ready and excited for the challenge, with a two year commitment to turn this dilapidated house into a pristine and modern home with rustic character. I was brought on to design the layout, specify the materials and finishes, plumbing fixtures, lighting, and flooring, along with a full kitchen and bathroom design.

Each skilled craftsman was local to the region, including the cabinet maker and millworkers, all doing high end finishing touches and making every corner precise. The entire team worked to make this family’s dream home come true, while architecturally, it sits quietly and effortlessly in the rolling bluffs of Wisconsin.

Interior Design: Calnin Design Studio

Photography: April Zelenka

Builder: Scott Roth, Marty Grosse, Lyle Construction, Falk Concrete + Construction, Travis Wertz

Cabinets and millwork: Karlstad Woodwork

Before

Kitchen and Entry

After

Kitchen Entry Bathroom