The 22 acre site offers unique vistas: wooded ravine to east, lake to south, coniferous trees to west planted by WPA in 1930s, and to the northwest a view of the original farmstead. A winding drive turns you to view these features. In winter, corn stands along the drive acting as a windbreak, color edge and wildlife food. The lake becomes visible only when you move around and through the house. The land is still farmed and a transition of prairie grasses and wildflowers occur between the farm fields and the house.

The design reflects elements from where the client previously lived. From California, spaces which slowly unfold as you progress through the house. Day lit spaces with softened corners and the importance of the circular motifs came from New Mexico, while living and working with Navajo Indians. From childhood homes, a comfort with natural materials.

The exterior is clad with golden and grey shingle siding, contrasting the color and texture of the Mankato Kasota stone and reflecting golden hues of field corn. The stone wraps around the house recalling the stone base of the farmstead barn. Prairie influences of horizontal lines, curvilinear forms and plant motifs carry through the house.

The front of the house is intentionally understated. The slight curve of the entry portico plays against the straight lines of the house. As you move around the house, the geometric forms become bold and the circular core of the house is evident. The stair wedge pushes through the roof as a look-out tower.