Building Designers in Saint Stephen, MN

“Spring of 2014 my husband and I started planning our lake home. We had never built a home before and were tackling a cottage style custom home. After 8 weeks of pulling my hair out with terms I didn’t understand, countless hours researching on the internet, my lack of confidence in my ability to convey “charming” and “quaint” regarding the finished home would look, I was at the end of my rope. Marla Waseka, Graceful Spaces, was recommended to us by a friend and when we met her we connected immediately. It started with a simple, “so you are looking for a story and a half” cottage—and we were off and running. Marla is very knowledgeable, creative and resourceful. It was clear that the bulk of the decision making would be on my shoulders. With that said, my whole attitude about planning and building has changed and it now building the lake home that we are proud of is becoming a reality. 1. She took my random thoughts, ideas and pictures I had of likes/dislikes and helped us create the vision of what “our” cottage home would be. 2.She is our advocate and has provided so many creative options for design “issues” as we have gone along with the project. Her gentle guidance on design options and design alternatives has been so beneficial to our success. 3.When my eyes have glazed over and start to roll to the back of my head, Marla took over with the decisions—and this happened frequently! She understands what we want and can step in to make sure we get it. 4.Marla guided us on areas to save and where to splurge. In addition, she hunted down materials for our cost saving. She found us a reclaimed door that is half the cost of our budget and so unique and perfect for our space. And by the way, she’s always kept our budget at the forefront of our discussions. 5.In addition to all these other accolades, Marla has worked exceptionally well with our builder and subcontractors. Our lake home is not completed but we are so excited with each new stage of development. We highly recommend Marla Waseka of Graceful Spaces and will be using her again in the future!”

“Brandon designed our cabin for us and was always available to make modifications. He is very responsive and has great knowledge of everything! No question or inquiry will go unanswered. Very professional and meets targets on time. If you’re looking to build a house from sketches on the back of napkin or looking to do an addition, he is the guy to get the job done!”

“Darin is one of the most talented Residential Architectural Designers I've ever worked with. We've been working together on a number of projects ranging from New Home Construction, Kitchen Remodels, Basement Finishes, etc. for almost a year now and I'm constantly overwhelmed by his creativity, his service to my customers, and the overall professional nature that he takes with everyone of my projects. I highly recommend his services and look forward to working with him every chance I get.”

“Janet was a very hands on and helpful project manager/general contractor for our bathroom remodel. She was here everyday twice a day, keeping the sub-contractors on schedule, making sure everything was in proper order, and just making sure the whole process was running smoothly. The finished product speaks for itself, they look great! I would recommend her to other businesses.”

“Our Family had a set of plans that just didn't work for us. Dean helped us by reworking the print to work for our family. Working with Dean was great, he knows what he is doing and he listens. Thank you The Johnson Family”