Bayside Residence by PKA Architecture

Embedded into a sloping lakeside property in Wayzata, Minnesota, Bayside Residence by PKA Architecture is a streamlined, multigenerational home that seamlessly blends connections to nature with a modern, private lifestyle.

The studio envisioned a home that would allow for a sense of openness to the surroundings while accommodating elevated amenities for large family gatherings. Drawing inspiration from the site itself, PKA Architecture divided the design into two horizontal planes: a solid, natural stone base and a lighter, fibre-cement-panelled upper level. Despite their contrasting material expressions, the elongated rectilinear floors merge effortlessly to host seven bathrooms, nine bathrooms and generous communal spaces within an envelope that evokes durability against the tranquil waterfront setting.

On the first floor, the full-height glass walls recede from the waterside edge, carving out sheltered balconies that capture exclusive views of the bay.

PKA Architecture pierced the home’s solid structure with expansive glazing, framed by bold, deep metallic profiles and partially shaded by an operable louvre system. On the first floor, the full-height glass walls recede from the waterside edge, carving out sheltered balconies that capture exclusive views of the bay. On the ground level, operable glazing enhances both visual and physical permeability, connecting Bayside Residence’s private backyard and lakefront with the carefully landscaped central courtyard. The courtyard acts as a landscaped hearth, nestled low into the heart of the house and kept open to the elements to foster greater interactions between nature and each quadrant of the home. This openness draws in daylight, ventilation and visual porosity across flanking programs.

The indoor sports court is visible from the kitchen, the kids’ hangout space is visible from the sports court and the family room is visible from the bedrooms, reinforcing an active continuity across the internal zones. External stone pavers and interior tiles on the ground floor are precisely aligned, developing an additional sense of flow from indoors to out, while the raised stone benches and plantings echo the overall design. Every element is thoughtfully underscored, positioned and connected back to reflect the dwelling’s essence.

Expressive details were integrated sparingly within the design’s pared-back linear forms, enriching the home’s sleek aesthetic with mechanical surprises.

Internally, finishes and fixtures were selected in collaboration with the team at Nada Bibi Interior Design to complement specific lighting schemes around Bayside Residence. A powder room on the main level exemplifies this light-focused approach. Despite its small footprint, the room is anchored by a full-height mirror that draws the eye upwards to a deep slice through the ceiling that reveals the sky. Set against dark, textured plaster walls, the light well becomes an even more dramatic feature, casting a striking spotlight effect in the moody space.

Multi-tonal timber accents and flooring introduce moments of warmth into the communal spaces, creating distinct junctions with crisp white or mineral grey cabinetry, ceilings and reveals. The stony base of the home pulses through to the upper level in the form of a crafted floor-to-ceiling fireplace. Similarly expressive details were integrated sparingly within the design’s pared-back linear forms, enriching the home’s sleek aesthetic with mechanical surprises. Beyond the dynamic external louvres, a bespoke entrance showcases the moving gears and mechanisms of the front door, adding layers of intrigue to the home’s refined contemporary character.

A collection of bespoke furniture and joinery pieces were vital in achieving the clients’ vision for adaptability while also introducing pops of colour to the neutral material palette.

A collection of bespoke furniture and joinery pieces were vital in achieving the clients’ vision for adaptability while also introducing pops of colour to the neutral material palette. Custom dining tables on the lower level are designed to be rearranged for larger gatherings or separated for more informal, intimate dining experiences. Artificial lighting elements further enhance the dynamic nature of the space, positioned along a magnetic track that allows them to be easily adjusted, as needed.

Bayside Residence uncovers a deep connection to the natural environment through a thoughtful interplay of materiality, transparency and flexibility, with a commitment to both functionality and polished aesthetics. The residence offers a versatile sanctuary grounded by an enduring architectural presence that both complements and elevates its setting.

Architecture by PKA Architecture. Interior design by Nada Bibi Interior Design. Build by Streeter Custom Builder. Landscape design by D/O Architects.