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Murphy & Co. Design - Minneapolis Residential Architects
Minneapolis residential architects dedicated to creating exceptional homes. Architects providing full services for new residential construction, residential remodeling / renovations, and boutique commercial projects. Custom architecture and design services for homes in Minneapolis, St. Paul, Brainerd Lakes area, western Wisconsin, outstate Minnesota, and other locations.
Murphy & Co. Design: Contact
Murphy & Co. Design
2 Division Street, Suite 203
Buffalo, Minnesota 55313
Murphy & Co. Design
3109 W. 50th St. #133
Minneapolis, Minnesota 55410
Murphy & Co. Design
406 West Washington Street Suite 5
Brainerd, Minnesota 56401
Telephone (763) 682-9294
Facsimile (763) 682-9296
Murphy & Co. Design: About
Vision Statement: To create a dream home of exemplary design and quality with the utmost client delight. \n\nMurphy & Co. Design is an architectural firm specializing in distinctive homes, ranging in size from small lake cottages to large estate residences. We also engage in spirited renovation projects, from minor interior remodels or additions to major whole house transformations and expansions. Murphy & Co. brings a highly refined sense of design to all of our projects, resulting in a residence that distinguishes itself from the ordinary. We are dedicated to the pursuit of excellence in design and craftsmanship, while having a passion for details and fine materials.
Being recognized for our strong technical skills, we develop artistic hand-drawn conceptual drawings combined with sophisticated CAD documents to ensure that every detail is well thought out and guesswork is eliminated. We also employ three dimensional software and computer imaging work to assist in visualization.\n\nWe pride ourselves on the ability to listen to our clients and understand their aesthetic aspirations and functional needs. Our principle of close communication with our clients and contractors ensures a residence that is a highly evolved culmination of creative thinking and artisan level craftsmanship. This approach results in a process that warrants us to work close with our clients during the entire phases of design and construction, leaving no detail left unnoticed. In addition, we strive to create a personal relationship with each client which begins with our enthusiastic and friendly team, and ends with a lasting and enjoyable experience.
Murphy & Co. Design: Services
Zoning review and municipality meetings Site planning and design Site grading design Conceptual building design Colored renderings 3D computer visualization Construction Documentation Interior architectural component design Electrical design and schematic drawings Construction specifications Energy calculations Bidding assistance Contractor selection Collaboration with outside sources Construction observation
Murphy & Co. Design: Process
Murphy & Co. Process
Conceptual Design
The first phase of the design process is the conceptual design phase. This phase explores the overall concept of the project, focusing on the "big picture". Brainstorming sessions of design requirements, spatial relationships, and basic functions are tested. Multiple options may be presented for design consideration, reinforcing the decision to continue onto the next phase.
Murphy & Co. Process
Schematic Design
The schematic design phase involves starting initial design drawings based on the approved conceptual schemes. Rough draft floor plans, exterior elevations, and a conceptual site plan are developed with considerations made to budget, design requirements, and initial material selections. Zoning guidelines can start to be evaluated at this phase for early design compliance.
Murphy & Co. Process
Design Development
Design development focuses on an overall refinement of the design scheme, including detailed floor plans, exterior elevations, and the site plan drawn to scale. Square footage calculations are completed, while colored renderings and 3D modeling can be prepared if requested. Drawings can be delivered to the contractor for preliminary pricing estimates.
Murphy & Co. Process
Construction Documentation
The construction documentation phase includes developing the very detailed documents used to construct the building. Drawings and specifications are prepared, including all items to complete the "shell" of the building, interior architectural elements, and schematic electrical plans. Detailed cost estimates can be prepared by the contractor to assist in starting the construction phase.
Murphy & Co. Process
Construction
This is the phase where the concepts become a reality. Murphy & Co. represents the client's interests during the construction phase. We can assist you with contractor selection, on-site inspections, building component shop drawing reviews, and final interior and exterior material selections.
Work Portfolio: New Construction
Work Portfolio: Renovations
Robinson's Bay Residence
{ Deephaven, Minnesota }
Nestled on the beautiful shores of Robinson's Bay on Lake Minnetonka, this residence is rooted in the classic Deephaven lake cottage style. This major renovation resulted in a complete transformation of all interior and exterior spaces, while retaining the original footprint and foundation of the home. A team of artisans crafted the richly detailed arched walnut beams of the great room, the new pine paneled study, and the reclaimed timber ceiling of the romantic "Cabin" above the garage.
Itasca Building Loft
{ Minneapolis, Minnesota }
This is an authentic loft space in the historic Itasca Building of downtown Minneapolis. The design highlights the strong materiality of the space. Through the use of large sliding doors and movable furniture this 900 square foot loft can change its function from cozy sleeping quarters to art gallery in a matter of minutes. The primary design element is the steel and sandblasted plexiglass wall that not only separates private and public spaces but also serves as the main light fixture in the space.
Cottage on the Hill
{ Buffalo, Minnesota }
Built into a steep hill with close proximity to the water?s edge, the renovation to this lakeside cottage began life as a small addition & ended as a multi-room interior & exterior transformation. Warm rustic tones echo throughout the home, including a Screen Porch addition featuring a stone fireplace, phantom screens, and a timber ceiling with the owner?s vintage waterskis used for bracing. An additional level with a children?s bedroom suite was added, offering stunning lake views from high atop the trees.
White Oaks Renovation
{ Edina, Minnesota }
Located in the beautiful White Oaks neighborhood of Edina, this renovation not only involved a complete gutting of the lower level, but also removal of the existing floor slab and excavation down another foot for added ceiling height. The result is a series of warm, inviting spaces that reflect the European tastes of the owners. A dedicated wine room with imported street cobblestones and plaster barrel vaulted ceiling is a favorite spot for friends to gather at the tasting table.
Northome Addition and Lakehouse
{ Deephaven, Minnesota }
The homeowners of this stately 1963 built Lake Minnetonka home desired a renovation and expansion that would preserve the design integrity and balance of the home without increasing its footprint. This was accomplished by adding new spaces into the existing roof structure in the form of dormers, appearing original to the design of the home. A new 'lake house' was also designed, which features a seating area and sod roof that appears as uninterrupted lawn when viewed from the main house.
Colonial Renovation
{ Buffalo, Minnesota }
This 1970s colonial on the shores of Lake Pulaski was given a new life in the form of a major exterior renovation. A new roofline with gable dormers, cottage windows, cedar trim details, and an illuminated windowed cupola all contributed to this transformation. The owners' love for golf is evident in the three-hole putting green on the property.
Shingled Cottage Renovation
{ Buffalo, Minnesota }
The desire to transform this cozy lake cottage began with the need for an attached garage, new master retreat and a large screen porch. The decision was made to create a combination garage/screen porch, with the master suite above. The results are relaxed, semi-rustic rooms that offer unequaled views of the adjacent lake.
Pulaski Road Transformation
{ Buffalo, Minnesota }
The owners of this stucco house on the shores of Lake Pulaski wished to add interest to the exterior of their home in the form of French Beaux- Arts detailing, while preserving the existing rooflines, windows, and shape of the house. Intricate limestone detailing was used around the window and door openings, including watertable trim with limestone corbels. A modeled stucco material was also used to enforce the aged appearance.
Work Portfolio: In Progress
Mirror Lake Shingle Style
{ Edina, Minnesota }
Focused on an authentic shingle style house that would fit well within this established Edina neighborhood, our clients were adamant about designing a new house that would retain the charm, scale, and detail of a timeless east coast inspired residence. The house includes a custom Georgian inspired Living Room mantelpiece, doric columns throughout, paneled walls, a coffered ceiling, and fluted cabinetry details.
Tuckborough Kitchen
{ Orono, Minnesota }
A stong sense of architectural detail was the beginning requirement from our clients for this Kitchen remodel. These details include Tudor arches, guilloche coves, fluted pilasters, hand-carved rosettes, a coffered ceiling, and a carved limestone rangetop hood. A bar alcove and breakfast nook anchor the end of the room, while new "taller" glass will help bring much needed natural light inside.
Crooked Lake Carriage House
{ Deerwood, Minnesota }
Our discerning clients came to us looking for a new English Cotswold cabin & carriage house on a spectacular lot overlooking Crooked Lake in Deerwood, MN. The Carriage House not only functions as a storage building for all the lake items, but also includes a winding staircase to an upper level Bar, Lake Room {with balcony overlooking the lake}, and 2 separate Bunk Rooms for guests.
Aspen Retreat
{ Aspen, Colorado }
This mountain getaway is located at the base of Aspen Highlands ski resort. A large wall of windows and a spacious roof deck over the garage provide majestic views up the hill while relaxing after a day of skiing. The stone is supported by steel lintels, while the five foot overhangs shed the large amounts of snowfall. A spacious vaulted kitchen and dining space are anchored by a massive stone fireplace, while the Master Suite enjoys its own terrace and outdoor hot tub for those cool winter nights.
Indian Hills Hampton
{ Edina, Minnesota }
Beginning its life as a mid-century rambler, this Indian Hills home is in the process of a major interior & exterior renovation in the form of an East Coast Hampton Style. With its stunning two acre wooded site, much emphasis was placed on interior spaces that open & flow to the beautiful surroundings. Working in close collaboration with kitchen & bath designer Casa Verde Design on the interior spaces, elements will include a new Kitchen, Living Room, Piano Alcove, and Gymnasium.
Minnetonka Modern
{ Lake Minnetonka area }
This artist's home on a suburban infill lot was modeled in three-dimension to convey the simple yet interesting massing of this home. View of Lake Minnetonka from the upper level terrace & studio serve as daily inspirations to the creativity inside. The exterior material pallette is prefinished steel siding/roofing in a variety of profiles and colors.
Devils Lake Cabin
{ Webster, Wisconsin }
Tucked into a dense forest of mature white & red pines, this family cabin will enjoy spectacular lake views perched over an elevated bluff. The design concept of sharing spaces keeps rooms cozy, yet offers the ability to open to one another for large family gatherings. Sliding glass walls between the Kitchen, Lake Room, and Screen Porch enlarges the floor area while bringing the exterior openness in. Exterior elements will include five foot overhangs, reclaimed hand-hewn siding with chinking, and rustic timber rafter tails.
Chippewa River Normandy
{ Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin }
Inspired by an eclectic blend of French architecture, including French Normandy & French Provincial, this stately residence will be sited high above the Chippewa River on a densely wooded site. A stone exterior balcony will offer incredible panoramic river valley views, while the interior will enjoy historic detailing with modern day conveniences for an active family. Juliet balconies, a stone stair turret, and corbelled entablatures are among the exterior features.
Bay Lake Cabin
{ Deerwood, Minnesota }
Nestled into a beautiful west facing lot, this cozy cabin on Bay Lake lives large for a footprint of only 1260 square feet. The owner's desire for an efficient house with no wasted space resulted in intimate areas differentiated by seating alcoves, suspended log collar ties, a built-in banquette dining area, and a large central fireplace. Designed in the alpine chalet style, the exterior features deep overhangs with tapered log ends, and a log & tree supported deck to relax after a day of playing on the lake.
Villa Concetto
{ Your Site }
Envision yourself in this new concept villa designed for your site. From its warm inviting spaces to its abundance of natural light, this home sets a new standard in Minnesota living. Featured spaces include an Entry Loggia, Inglenook, Porch with eating nook and fireplace, and Rear Terrace with outdoor cooking fireplace. Careful attention was placed in creating a home that is a blend of European & Spanish Colonial Revival influences of the early 20th century. Please call for details & options.
Bohn's Point Mediterranean
{ Orono, Minnesota }
This graceful, time-tempered home was inspired by the rustic Mediterranean architecture of early 1900s Southern California dwellings, as well as the Spanish region of Andalusia. Situated on an elevated ridge of Bohn's Point on Lake Minnetonka, stunning views can be seen from the hand-forged juliet balconies, dining loggia, and upper-level covered terrace with hand-carved stone columns. Rich interior textures reflects the owners' love of Mediterranean, Moroccan and Italian houses.
Medina Shingle Style
{ Medina, Minnesota }
Inspired by classic East coast shingle style architecture, this family home is situated on the former site of a 19th century farmstead. Simple and understated, the weathered cedar shingle exterior recalls the seaside houses seen on Martha's Vineyard. Elegant enameled millwork and long leaf heart pine flooring contribute to the casual feel of the interior spaces.
Upper Peninsula Camp
{ Portage Charter Township, Michigan }
Surrounded by beautiful towering pines, this Adirondack inspired home in the U.P. is reminiscent of early 1900s camps as seen on the shores of Saranac and Upper St. Regis lakes in upstate New York. A study in maximizing the most of a small footprint, this home boasts five upper level bedrooms, including an open catwalk centered over a great dining hall. Large tree trunks form the front porch columns, while lodgepole pine logs compose the structural columns, ridge beam, and collar ties of the interior.
Laguna Beach Villa
{ Laguna Beach, California }
With stunning Pacific Ocean views, the owners of this Laguna Beach property realized the hidden potential of this house on the hill. With a penchant for detail, the owners began the process with an extensive interior renovation, followed with an exterior renovation based on an Italian villa aesthetic. Living spaces facing the ocean were increased with the addition of a roof terrace, covered balconies, and an entrance loggia.
Marysville Four-Square
{ Marysville Township, Minnesota }
Perched on a highly elevated ridge overlooking the tranquil rolling countryside of Marysville Township, this classically designed foursquare was to appear as though its been added onto over the years to accommodate a growing household. The home's activity is centered on its massive stone fireplace, which is open to the country kitchen, dining room, and upper loft. A large porch with a pass-through to the kitchen is the ideal place to enjoy lazy summer days.
Locust Hills Residence
{ Wayzata, Minnesota }
Located in the distinguished Locust Hills community on Gray's Bay, this home is designed as a blend of early 1900s Lake Minnetonka and classic European lodges. Developed as a virtual speculation home for a prominent builder, this home is currently for sale and can be custom tailored to your desire. This ideal cul-de-sac location includes views facing the lagoon, boardwalk, and the stone arch bridge.
Alpine Style Lake Lodge
{ Buffalo, Minnesota }
From its battered stone walls to its broad sheltering overhangs, this combination garage and guest house is the first phase in a family's lakeside retreat. The main level features a two-car deep garage complete with service lift to showcase the owners' collection of classic and current vehicles, while the upper level carries on the automotive theme in a contemporary setting. As the main house is constructed, this structure will serve as living quarters until its connection to the main residence.
Albertville Body Shop
{ Albertville, Minnesota }
With a steady increase of business over the years, the owners of this auto body shop on main street Albertville have acquired neighboring buildings and constructed additions to keep up with the demanding workloads. A design scheme was implemented to create a single cohesive look reminiscent of a 1930s service garage, complete with hand-made wood and iron service doors, double hung wood windows, gooseneck light fixtures, and antique paint manufacturers signs.
Lake Pulaski Prairie Style
{ Buffalo, Minnesota }
This modern interpretation of prairie style architecture will be nestled into a beautiful hillside site on the north shore of Lake Pulaski. Broad six feet overhangs, minimalist detailing, and a steel framed cantilevered deck all enforce the contemporary presence of the structure.