Concrete Splendor

a living roomAlecia Stevens is an Minneapolis interior designer and writer.
Photos by Jim Kruger, Landmark Photography

Palatial estate keeps energy conservation in mind.

Kyle Smith is on a mission. His company, Polar ICF, built this home entirely (almost) of concrete. And it’s clear that Smith and his team are passionate about the advantages of concrete construction.

“This home will stand for 300 years,” Smith claims with a smile. “But, more important, we are committed to taking into account the effect of our building on the environment. All materials are carefully considered and we use renewable resources whenever possible. Why cut down a tree if we are going to paint a panel? We’ll use medium density fiberboard in that case.”

Throughout the house, exterior walls of 2-inch thick poured concrete are sandwiched between siding and 2-inch panels of foam that is impervious to mold and mildew. The home’s thick walls provide excellent insulation summer and winter, while its state-of-the-art mechanical system uses geothermal technology to provide both heating and cooling. Although concrete construction costs more upfront, energy savings over the life of a home can be substantial. Smith estimates the annual energy bill for this 13,000-square-foot home at around $1,500. Smith’s team prepares an energy audit calculating projected heating and cooling costs for new homes before a single shovel of dirt has been lifted.

The homeowner worked with the design team of Polar ICF to create this traditional home in the French cottage style. Stone and stucco are the primary exterior materials with minimal use of wood. A majestic entry with marble floor and a soaring curved staircase are the first signs that this is a distinguished home. A wonderful sunny great room takes the place of a formal living room.
The handsome kitchen features popular two-toned finishes. North Star Kitchens chose natural maple cabinet bases to contrast with doors stained dark espresso brown. The imposing curved granite countertop on the island reinforces the color scheme. The mosaic-tile backsplash, stainless-steel hardware, and custom support brackets add to the interesting mix of materials.

The millwork throughout is enameled soft creamy white, while most walls on the first floor are papered in sage green grasscloth, unifying this large open space. Other rooms on the first floor include a formal dining room, a bedroom with bath, and a spacious mudroom. Across the back of the home, pavers form a terrace that offers views of the surrounding marshland.

Rich brown marble in the second-floor hallway leads to the master suite. The large and stunning bath boasts espresso-stained cabinets and marble floors and counters. The custom walk-in closet uses the same cabinetry found in the bath. Over the garage a large media room with a bar offers an escape. This wing of the home includes guest quarters as well. A small loft area with separate room for sound equipment is housed on the third floor.

This unique home is proof that alternative materials and better design choices can not only be eco-friendly, they can produce a striking and luxurious home as well.

BUILDER
Polar ICF

HOME LOCATION
Orono

SUPPLIERS
Harmony Melamine Creations
by Scherer Bros. Lumber Co.
North Star Kitchens
Roth Distributing Company
Shaw/Stewart Lumber Co.
The Tile Shop

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