Lake Elmo weeHouse / Alchemy Architects

Lake Elmo weeHouse / Alchemy Architects - Exterior Photography, WoodLake Elmo weeHouse / Alchemy Architects - Interior Photography, Kitchen, Table, Chair, WindowsLake Elmo weeHouse / Alchemy Architects - Interior Photography, WindowsLake Elmo weeHouse / Alchemy Architects - Exterior Photography, WoodLake Elmo weeHouse / Alchemy Architects - More Images+ 19

Lake Elmo, United States
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Lake Elmo weeHouse / Alchemy Architects - Exterior Photography, Wood
© Brooks Geenen

Text description provided by the architects. The design of the Lake Elmo weeHouse is a hyper-efficient home for clients who live in both Australia and Minnesota. The home was bound between several constraints: a modest budget, the flood plain below, and a 16’ maximum zoning height above. Nonetheless, the 990 sf box contains 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and ample open space.

Lake Elmo weeHouse / Alchemy Architects - Exterior Photography, Stairs, Wood
Lake Elmo weeHouse / Alchemy Architects - Image 18 of 24
Floor Plan
Lake Elmo weeHouse / Alchemy Architects - Exterior Photography, Wood

It hovers lightly above the surrounding wetland on helical piers embedded 22 feet underground. A custom weathering steel and black cedar skin blends the house into the trees. Its wide enclosed deck and entry porch extend the living quarters out over the yard, bridging the transition from inside to out.

Lake Elmo weeHouse / Alchemy Architects - Interior Photography, Dining room, Windows, Chair, Table
© Brooks Geenen

Inside, a white-on white palette is punctuated by a kitchen carved out of the core and highlighted in silver, a built-in bench to inhabit the wetland view at the hallway’s end, and two small but luxe baths. Mechanicals are tucked out of the way and accessed by a trap door in the kitchen. The house stays cozy with in-floor hydronic heat throughout.

Lake Elmo weeHouse / Alchemy Architects - Exterior Photography, Wood
© Brooks Geenen

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Cite: "Lake Elmo weeHouse / Alchemy Architects" 11 Apr 2020. ArchDaily. Accessed . <https://www.archdaily.com/936880/lake-elmo-weehouse-alchemy-architects> ISSN 0719-8884

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