What are some of the trends you are seeing in the cabin and lake home designs in the Brainerd Lakes area?
We are seeing rustic construction designs with open, spacious living areas and cozy places throughout. Lots of windows to bring nature close and lofts overlooking great rooms with timber accents are popular. Reclaimed timbers and rustic wood floors are desirable selections too. Kitchens continue to be a gathering place with the inclusion of islands with seating. The addition of natural stone counters and distressed wood floors and cabinets make the kitchen a warm and cozy central hub.
What are some lake home exterior trends?
There are many, including timber accents over front entryways and on gable ends. James Hardie fiber cement siding products with accents of board & batten and shakes are popular. They offer good weather resistance and low maintenance. Broad trim boards are used to add interest and visual appeal. Cultured stone on columns, select walls and accenting the home are also an exterior trend. Please note, that we not only are aware of and have experience in what is new and trendy- we also know the tried and true traditional and classic home features as well.
We plan on using our cabin as a family gathering destination, any special issues?
Overall design needs to accommodate for excess guests over holidays and busy summer season. Consider having a bathroom for every bedroom in order to provide ample privacy for guests and family. Sufficient indoor and outdoor storage is big as is providing ample parking space.
Being a Brainerd MN cabin builder, is there a way to lower my winter heating bill for my new lake home?
Yes. Besides upgrading your insulation, heat pumps are becoming popular and are an efficient energy alternative. Air to air heat pumps are popular preferences compared to ground source heat pumps. Air to air typically utilizes dual fuel electricity and costs much less upfront than ground source systems.