Update #1
Discovering the Lakeside Story
Anchor Team Member
- Barak Steenlage, Owner
- June 29, 2026
Every home and every homeowner is different. This is one of our favorite parts about designing and building homes. Even though it would make our jobs a lot easier, no two homes are the same. Our life experiences, favorite vacation destinations, previous home experience (good and bad), everything shapes what we like and don’t like, want and don’t want. Discovering your home’s story is something that starts from the first conversation.
The couple behind this Lakeside Story stood out right away. Some clients come to us looking for a plan, others come to us with a plan. They were the latter.
They were currently living in Chaska, MN, but wanted to be closer to their daughter and grandkids. They had already found a potential lot location in Apple Valley and wanted to find a partner to architect, design, and build their new home.
After our initial conversations, their vision and the story behind it became crystal clear:
The couple behind this Lakeside Story stood out right away. Some clients come to us looking for a plan, others come to us with a plan. They were the latter.
They were currently living in Chaska, MN, but wanted to be closer to their daughter and grandkids. They had already found a potential lot location in Apple Valley and wanted to find a partner to architect, design, and build their new home.
After our initial conversations, their vision and the story behind it became crystal clear:
Client Story
- 2 daughters + grandkids
- Active lifestyle
- Quality over quantity
- Precise construction timeline
Home Story
- Lake view
- Contemporary styling
- Open concept
- 3,000 sq ft
It is really important for our design team to learn what matters the most to you. As our architect, Katy Dale says, “I’m not here to spend your money, I’m here to make sure your money goes toward the things you value most.”
TIP: Don't worry if you don't have everything planned out.
We can help you assess lots, give advice on selling your current home, and find your design style.
Coming Up Next:
Let’s rewind the clock! We’ll reveal how we first met this couple and explain what the first few stages of new construction look like.