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 team of 21 professionals works collaboratively. Sharing, debate, ongoing refinement, and continued education drive us to elevate our process as individuals and as a team, and cultivate an uncommon level of creative energy that enriches each and every home we create. If you've seen our portfolio of work, you know we don't have a specific "style".
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 team of 21 professionals works collaboratively. Sharing, debate, ongoing refinement, and continued education drive us to elevate our process as individuals and as a team, and cultivate an uncommon level of creative energy that enriches each and every home we create. If you've seen our portfolio of work, you know we don't have a specific "style".
Services
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.
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.
The homeowners' goal: to create a home that feels one with the landscape, as elemental and natural as possible. The vaulted ceiling is anchored with the minimalist lines of a Kasota stone fireplace. The big slab stones were fleuri cut for a swirl effect, then sandblasted to age and enliven. Minimalist design and simple lines continue throughout the house, and are accentuated by the homeowners' personal style and carefully edited collections.
A 16-foot island allows the kitchen to be one-sided yet highly functional for our client, a fabulous cook. French doors to the left provide light, views, and easy access to courtyard dining. A spacious kitchen work area is essential to feeding throngs. Strategically placed eating areas-in the adjacent porch, dining room and tucked into the stair-graciously seat all.
It happens quite often. Prospective clients discover that the addresses they admire most - big or modest, classic or contemporary, prairie style or Italianate or any style at all - are TEA2 projects. That's because we design homes that not only delight the eye, but feel exactly right. These aren't set pieces; they're marriages of authenticity, integrity and livability.
Reviews (1)
Stuart Andreassen
Jul 14, 2017
Report
