TEA2 Architects

We're a residential architecture firm located in historic Fire Station 28 in Linden Hills - a vibrant southwest Minneapolis neighborhood. Originally known as TEA - Tom Ellison Architects - we're the second generation of one of the oldest, most experienced residential firms in Minnesota. Since our start 40 years ago, our focus has been on the creation of custom homes and renovations: exquisitely designed, thoroughly detailed, beautifully livable custom homes and renovations. We've created sought-after homes for clients across North America, with projects in Minnesota, Wisconsin, Arizona, Alabama, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Illinois, Florida, North Carolina, Ohio and British Columbia.

Our clients wanted a traditional look for their new home on a lake-but the feel of a tranquil retreat. Limestone gable "anchors" lend traditional form. But in material execution and planning, it is modern, with glass expanses creating openness and light. Kasota stone conveys the sense that the home has been here forever, and provides a visual counterpoint to the glass. Exterior fireplace and outdoor "rooms" are integral to the design, and add to the joy of lake living. The cut-granite wall and landscaping design reinforce the clean horizontal lines.

The homeowners' goal of an evening glow was created with carefully selected woodwork, stone and lighting. The essence is of a handmade boat-reflective of Arts & Crafts style, but filled with light. Old row houses are long and dark, all rooms lined up front to back. This open floor plan expands the space; a large skylight over the stair and variety of strategically placed high windows fill it with light. We use features like this curving dormer to create little "moments" both in the home and on the roofline.

Updating this 1970s-built condo was a challenge due to sagging infrastructure, low ceilings, unmovable plumbing, limited layout options and a demanding timeline. To address the claustrophobic feeling, it needed more than refinishing. Removing kitchen walls and opening the space set the tone for the rest of the unit. We kept the material palette quiet so as not to compete with the homeowners' own color palette and spectacular views of ocean, harbor, skyline and mountains. A thin, elegant soffit was the magic trick for concealing the ductwork, sprinkler system, recessed lights, and motorized shades.