A long-standing Eden Prairie home, owned by David and Bev Lohs since 1981, has undergone a significant renovation. The project aimed to create a more open layout, enhance views of a backyard pond, and incorporate age-in-place features. The couple collaborated with architect Christopher Strom, the grandson of the home's original builder, to reimagine their living space.
Key Takeaways
- The Lohs family home, built in 1981, received a major renovation.
- Architect Christopher Strom, grandson of the original builder, led the design.
- Renovation focused on open layout, enhanced pond views, and age-in-place features.
- The kitchen was relocated and expanded, becoming a central hub.
- New design earned recognition as a Home of the Month.
A Deep Connection to Home and Heritage
David and Bev Lohs have lived in their ranch-style home for over four decades. For much of that time, the house remained largely unchanged. Their connection to the property runs deep, a sentiment shared by their chosen architect, Christopher Strom. Strom's grandfather built the Lohs residence, as well as his own family home just two doors away. This personal history provided a unique understanding of the neighborhood's character and the home's original midcentury-modern design elements.
The couple initially considered renovating two decades ago but paused when proposed plans drastically altered the home's exterior. They prioritized family needs, caring for Bev Lohs' elderly mother, which further delayed any major changes. This time, the Lohses sought a design that respected the home's roots while addressing their evolving needs.
Project Recognition
The renovation project was selected as a 2025-26 Home of the Month, an honor presented by the Minnesota Star Tribune and the American Institute of Architects Minnesota. This award recognizes exceptional residential designs.
Opening Up the Heart of the Home
A primary goal for the Lohses was to liberate their kitchen from its previously enclosed, dark location. It was situated off the garage, disconnected from the main living areas, with only a small window offering a limited view. Architect Strom addressed this by extending the east side of the house by 14 feet. This expansion created ample space for a new, open kitchen.
The redesigned kitchen now boasts sightlines to the front door, living room, and the serene backyard. This central location fosters a more connected and inviting atmosphere for daily living and entertaining. The addition also incorporated a practical mudroom/laundry area, a pantry, and a compact office space. These new rooms mean the Lohses no longer need to use the downstairs for everyday tasks, enhancing convenience and accessibility.
"It [the old kitchen] just had a small window over the sink with a much more limited view," Bev Lohs explained, highlighting the dramatic improvement in the new space.
Embracing Natural Light and Scenic Views
The renovation prioritized bringing the outdoors in. The living room now features four expansive 5- by 6-foot windows. These large panes perfectly frame the picturesque views of the pond, surrounding woods, and a weeping willow tree the Lohses planted 25 years ago. The natural scenery itself serves as the primary decoration for the space, creating a tranquil backdrop.
Additional sources of natural light were strategically integrated throughout the home. A 12-foot-long counter-height window/backsplash on the north side of the kitchen floods the area with light. Even the previously windowless pantry now benefits from a new skylight. David Lohs enthusiastically added the skylight to his personal list of top-five favorite features, underscoring its impact.
Age-in-Place Design
The renovation thoughtfully incorporated "age-in-place" features, allowing the Lohses to comfortably remain in their home for many years. These elements are seamlessly integrated into the design, ensuring functionality without compromising aesthetics.
Thoughtful Details and Sustainable Choices
Beyond the structural changes, the renovation incorporated numerous thoughtful details. A striking, stand-alone wood-burning fireplace now separates the living room and entryway. Strom restored the existing fireplace, adorning it with a limestone pinwheel pattern. A vertical column of built-in wood storage was integrated along the kitchen-facing side, adding both functionality and aesthetic appeal.
White oak cabinetry and window trim create a cohesive interior aesthetic. However, Strom carefully avoided an overwhelming use of wood, opting to paint some upper kitchen cabinets white. This choice helps maintain an open and airy feeling throughout the space. For the flooring, the team selected ash wood from John Rajala of Minnesota Timber & Millwork, a company known for sustainable wood products. The wood features a vertical grain, described by Strom as "the nicest floor I’ve ever done."
- Wide passageways: Facilitate easy movement throughout the home.
- Matching grab bars: Bathroom grab bars blend seamlessly with other fixtures.
- Easy-grip cabinet pulls: Enhance accessibility for all.
- Slide-out cabinet shelves: Improve organization and reach.
- Full-extension soft-close drawers: Offer smooth and quiet operation.
- Spring-loaded lifts: For heavy appliances, reducing strain.
Modern Amenities and Enhanced Lifestyle
The renovation also brought the home's amenities into the modern era. A variety of task and ambient lighting options were installed, providing versatile illumination for different activities and moods. New, modern appliances further enhance the kitchen's functionality. This includes a built-in microwave/air fryer, which frees up valuable counter space, and an induction cooktop. Bev Lohs praises the induction cooktop for its efficiency and ease of cleaning, noting its environmental benefits.
The overall impact of the renovation has been profound for the Lohses. They now entertain friends and neighbors more frequently, and both report feeling more grounded and uplifted by their surroundings. David Lohs described the experience as "life-changing," observing how visitors immediately relax upon entering, sitting by the fireplace, and enjoying the views. The couple looks forward to many more years in their revitalized home.
"It’s been life-changing. We’ve had friends and neighbors here, and you could just see how they relaxed once they walked in, sat by the fireplace, and took in the view," David Lohs shared. "We feel that way, too, and are looking forward to the years ahead."
Project Team and Partners
The successful execution of this project involved a dedicated team and numerous partners:
- Architects: Christopher Strom, AIA; John Bergford, AIA; Brett Biwer, Assoc. AIA
- Construction: Crown Construction Co.
- Interiors: Ruth Johnson Interiors
- Engineering: A.M. Structural Engineering
- Windows: Marvin Windows
- Cabinets: Thomas Adair Cabinets
- Front Door: Ingrained Wood Studio
- Carpentry: ZK Carpentry
- Lighting: DMF Lighting
- Systems: Western Systems
- Ironwork: Loftus Ornamental Iron