Acclaimed architect Charles Stinson has designed projects all over the country and abroad, yet Minnesota remains close to his heart, especially with his roots growing up in Red Wing, MN. “There is something about the whole culture here. I love the variety of the seasons. All of it. The snow, the rain, the longer days and shorter days. I even enjoy the cloudy days. People just feel more connected to nature here. I’ve seen and lived in other places, but they don’t hold me like Minnesota does.”
The feeling is mutual, as many of his stunning designs grace the Lake Minnetonka area. His process is a fusion of old-school and new-school genius. Each project still begins with Charles crafting hand-colored drawings. Architect Chuck Thiss and team turn those drawings into 3-D computer models. What follows is a myriad of professionals, including structural engineers, interior designers, and landscape experts, all working together as the process unfolds.
One of the most critical decisions is where the house will be situated.
For lake properties, Charles stands on the site to determine the best orientation, considering views onto the water and views from the lakeside. It’s a full sensory process as he considers how the home will be used as well as how it will look.
“I try to be out there at different times of day. I stand with my arms out and move back and forth until I find the orientation I’m looking for. Then I do it again. If I find the same thing twice, that’s it. I imagine the functions living between the leaves, imagining how the homeowners want to live.”
In addition to remarkable projects for clients, Charles designed the lake home that he and his wife currently enjoy. “In our house, we wanted it to feel like a summer camp more than a house. We have a nautical feel inside. A lot of built-ins. Our grandson said it feels like the inside of a ship.”
Outside, the Stinsons spend time sitting around the campfire, having picnics, playing pickleball, and taking in a variety of wildlife sightings. Charles says, “Being on the lake is a dream come true.”
“The lake is such an incredible amenity. Open to everyone. All seasons. Something to protect for everyone. It slows us down and allows us to appreciate nature. “
Charles says, “Building a house is not for the weak of heart. You have to have incredible faith to step into the unknown. Believe in the invisible. But if you keep it simple and elegant to scale and allow the architecture to get out of the way, nature will do the hard work.”
Charles’ name is on the door, but he is crystal clear that this work is that of great collaboration with talented colleagues, engaging clients, and the great outdoors. His philosophy is, “The best idea wins.” The fusion of all of these ideas ensures the very best views are the ones from home.
See more of Charles Stinson’s incredible projects here: https://www.charlesrstinson.com/
