River Residence

River Residence is a renovation and accessibility upgrade to a longtime home along the St. Croix waterway, completed by Shelter in 2018. The project was initiated by clients who wished to remain at their established riverfront site while updating the house to better accommodate changing needs for daylight and mobility. Shelter’s intervention focused on revitalizing the existing footprint, reconfiguring layouts, and introducing an elevator to ensure full accessibility throughout. Interior design moves included adopting a bright color palette and installing an open staircase to draw daylight deep into all levels. The project also required compliance with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources’ Wild and Scenic Rivers program, which mandates careful consideration of materials, height, and setbacks to protect the surrounding environment. The renovation retained the original stone basement and deck, while applying muted and natural materials to new exterior surfaces, creating a reserved presence that responds to both the riverscape and regulatory context.

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