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Grandfather Clocks to Disco Balls: A Historic Remix of a Victorian Gem

Linden Hills, one of Minneapolis’s most cherished neighborhoods, is home to stunning historic architecture, but few homes blend old-world charm with modern-day living quite like this newly remodeled 1905 Victorian. Set to debut in the Artisan Homes Tour 2024 from October 18-20

Editor: Mathew W. Swenson
Photography: Taylor Hall O'Brien

Brought to life by the expert collaboration of Highmark Builders, Chisel Architecture, and Prospect Refuge Studio, this project redefines what it means to honor history while adapting to modern family life.This remodel is not just a project—it’s a collaborative enviroment. Highmark Builders, Chisel Architects, and Prospect Refuge Studio each brought their unique expertise to the table, ensuring that every detail—from the grand design to the smallest trim—was executed with care and precision.

The result is a home that feels both historically significant and refreshingly modern, offering its owners the perfect balance of functionality, charm, and personality.As you tour the home during the Artisan Homes Tour, you’ll witness firsthand how this once-dated Victorian has been transformed into a space that honors its past while embracing its future. From the playful spirit of the hospitality bar to the craftsmanship of the woodwork and cabinetry, this home is a true reflection of its owners—a young family that values history but isn’t afraid to have a little fun along the way.

Preserving the Past, Building for the Future

When the young family of four purchased this historic home, they knew they wanted to preserve its character while adding much-needed space and amenities. Rather than overwhelm the structure with grand additions, the design team’s challenge was to find harmony between old and new, adding “just enough and not too much.”

The homeowners enlisted a dream team to tackle this delicate balance: Highmark Builders, Chisel Architects, and Prospect Refuge Studio for interior design.Victoria Sass, founder of Prospect Refuge Studio, describes the approach as "evolutionary, not revolutionary." The goal was to highlight the home’s original architectural features—such as historic woodwork and a classical floor plan—while seamlessly blending new elements that feel like a natural continuation of the home's story. Trim, molding, and cabinetry were carefully considered, with the design team making thoughtful decisions about when to stay true to historical styles and when to add contemporary touches.

After getting to know the homeowners and their vision, the team crafted a whimsical fairy tale titled The Grandfather Clock and the Disco Ball. This charming metaphor symbolizes the union of opposites—representing the balance between tradition and modernity that defines the home’s design.

The story tells of a dignified grandfather clock, grounded and purposeful, meeting the dazzling, irreverent spirit of a disco ball. Despite their differences, the two form an unlikely partnership, bringing out the best in one another. This playful tale echoes the homeowners’ desire for a space that mixes timeless elegance with joyful, unexpected moments. “Imagine your home as a fairy tale,” Sass explains, “a love story between contrasts.

This is a space where tradition and whimsy coexist, bringing magic to both daily tasks and grand gestures.”The Artisan Homes Tour will take place from October 18-20, 2024. Don’t miss your chance to visit this beautifully remodeled Victorian home in Linden Hills.

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