A unique 1990 home in Golden Valley, designed by architect Sarah Susanka before her bestselling 1998 book, has entered the market. The property, located in the coveted Tyrol Hills neighborhood, is listed at $1,195,000 as its long-time owners, Peter and Anett Grant, prepare for retirement in Florida.
Key Takeaways
- 1990 Golden Valley home by Sarah Susanka is for sale.
- Features design principles from her 'Not So Big House' book.
- Listed at $1.195 million in Tyrol Hills.
- Offers 4,060 square feet, four bedrooms, and Japanese-inspired bath.
- Abuts 759 acres of Theodore Wirth Park.
A Home Ahead of Its Time
The Grants' home was a pioneering project for Susanka, predating her influential book, "The Not So Big House," by eight years. The book challenged the prevailing trend of large, often impersonal, 'McMansions' by advocating for quality over sheer size. The Golden Valley residence embodies many of these core design philosophies.
Anett Grant expressed deep affection for the property.
"We loved the warmth of Sarah’s houses," she stated. "This house has all kinds of places to tuck in and play, read a book or have a conversation. That was all Sarah. She knew how to make a house feel comfortable."
Property Snapshot
- Address: Golden Valley, Tyrol Hills
- Original Design: Sarah Susanka, 1990
- Listing Price: $1,195,000
- Square Footage: 4,060 sq ft
- Bedrooms/Baths: 4 bedrooms, 2 baths (plus lower level)
Innovative Design Principles
Susanka's design for the Grants incorporated several techniques she would later popularize. The main floor features clear sightlines from one end to the other, creating a sense of openness and engagement. This concept, known as "Long View Through," directs the eye towards focal points like a fireplace/art niche or a strategically placed window, a technique Susanka calls "Light to Walk Toward."
Instead of traditional full walls, varied ceiling heights, partial walls, or a few steps define distinct areas on the main floor. In the kitchen, maple cabinetry and a floating shelf near the ceiling help create a defined space without complete separation.
"It creates a sense of shelter around the kitchen without it being separated by walls," Susanka explained.
The 'Not So Big House' Philosophy
Published in 1998, Sarah Susanka's book championed thoughtful design over excessive square footage. It advocated for homes that are tailored to the owners' needs, emphasizing comfortable, well-crafted spaces that feel larger and more engaging through clever architectural techniques. This approach stood in contrast to the trend of building increasingly large, but often poorly designed, suburban homes.
Thoughtful Spaces for Every Stage of Life
The 4,060-square-foot home was designed for adaptability. The lower level includes a separate entrance, a bedroom, a bath, and a family room. This flexible space served as accommodation for a live-in nanny when the Grants' children were young. As the children grew, it transformed into a teenager's retreat. Eventually, Peter Grant converted the bedroom into a home office.
A large, built-in window seat under an arched window in the family room, another Susanka signature, proved versatile. It initially housed children's stuffed animals and later became a comfortable spot for party guests to gather and converse. These adaptable features highlight Susanka's focus on creating homes that evolve with their occupants.
Unique Touches and Forward Thinking
While Susanka's principles guided much of the design, Anett Grant contributed a distinct element: a three-story turret. Her love for circular forms led Susanka to incorporate this feature, using its curved walls to create inviting seating areas and unique views.
Peter Grant recalled an impressive detail from the initial design phase in 1990. Susanka foresaw the shift towards flatter televisions, designing the family room cabinet to accommodate future, sleeker screens. When the bulky cathode-ray TVs were replaced by modern flatscreens, no modifications to the cabinet were needed, a testament to Susanka's foresight.
Prime Location and Market Appeal
The home's location in Tyrol Hills is a significant draw. Listing agent Sara Kranz of Edina Realty highlighted its unique position.
"This is a very quiet cul-de-sac in a very private setting," Kranz noted. "It's in one of the most coveted pockets in Golden Valley because it abuts 759 acres of Theodore Wirth Park."
The Golden Valley real estate market has seen steady activity. According to the Regional Multiple Listing Service, 28 homes in the Tyrol Hills neighborhood have either received accepted offers or closed in 2025, with an average price of approximately $935,000. This indicates a strong demand for properties in the area.
- Community: Tyrol Hills, Golden Valley
- Proximity: Abuts 759-acre Theodore Wirth Park
- Market Activity (2025): 28 homes sold or under contract
- Average Neighborhood Price (2025): ~$935,000
Kranz has observed considerable interest in the property, including from Susanka enthusiasts traveling from as far as Chicago. She emphasized that while the home is architecturally significant, its practical design makes it suitable for various occupants.
"This was a forward-thinking, well-built home," Kranz affirmed. "It would function equally well for a family, a couple who like to entertain, or anyone who wants to live close to nature."
Susanka herself expressed satisfaction with the Grants' long enjoyment of the home.
"The houses I’ve designed are like my babies," she commented. "I like to know who’s taking care of them."The architect looks forward to the next chapter for this distinctive property with new owners.