SALA Architects, Inc.

06/10/2026

The feature window in this renovated cabin offers a human-size aperture for lake gazing. Its diameter matches the curved landing of a new, gentle staircase, and both measurements were derived from the preexisting spiral stair. Many new features in this renovation are inspired by the cabin's original elements. The existing elegant bowed roof, formed of hand-built trusses in 1963, is now inverted inside, with an arched ceiling replacing a seven foot flat ceiling, so the gathering space is taller and brighter. A fireplace chimney visually anchors its center.⁠ Designed by Bryan Anderson, AIA with Jessica Wilder and Matt Wingard⁠
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Construction: Tom Sagedahl⁠
Ironwork: ⁠
Landscape Design: Travis Van Liere Studio⁠
Cabinetry: ⁠
Photography: Troy Thies

06/04/2026

https://www.aia-mn.org/rad-26/

We are thrilled to report that David O'Brien Wagner, AIA, is the recipient of the 2026 Residential Architect of Distinction Award from AIA Minnesota. Presented biennially, the award recognizes excellence in design, craft, and materiality. David began his career with Seattle-area firms Cutler Anderson Architects and Olson Kundig, spending his formative years immersed in James Cutler’s approach to wood-based Pacific Northwest modernism. He's practiced at SALA since 2000 - we're honored to have him and celebrate this recognition! Thank you AIA Minnesota!

David Wagner, AIA, Receives 2026

05/30/2026

This new Wisconsin lake home (complete with suspended canoe light fixture!) is featured in the Summer 2026 issue of . It's varied use of stone and wood give it a rich material backdrop to pair with modern rustic interior design choices by Krystal Kellermann of O'Hara Interiors. Get a copy to learn more! Designed by Dale Mulfinger, FAIA with Jessica Kenneally, AIA⁠.⁠
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Construction: Nelson Construction⁠
Interior Design: ⁠
Photography:

05/28/2026

The Nest has two primary spaces, a Sunroom Pavilion and a Dining Pavilion, which shelter under sculptural roof canopies. Doubled heavy timber, Douglas fir ridge beams rise along the diagonal of each pavilion, adding a dynamic geometry to the ceilings. Joists and purlins extend from inside to out, while ceilings and soffits are left open allowing the structural members to become part of the building’s tectonic expression. The integration of steel with wood – using a hybrid flitch plate strategy – imparts the Douglas fir beams and joists with added bending strength, permitting longer spans with fewer columns. Materials were chosen to emphasize functionality, durability, and aesthetic appeal. ⁠
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Designed by David O’Brien Wagner, AIA and Jody McGuire, AIA.⁠
Construction: Ridgeback Builders⁠
Photography:

05/23/2026

This renovation infused the kitchen with vibrant oranges and pinks, reminding us that every corner of a home can be a source of delight. The cheeriness continues upstairs, where a full second level replaced a tiny half-story. Modernity seamlessly embraces tradition, evolving the home's possibilities while respecting its historical roots.⁠ Designed by Jody McGuire, AIA with Sarah Gastler.⁠
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Construction: ⁠
Photography: .three.photography

05/20/2026

This lakehome sits on a peninsula in Hayward, WI, offering 270-degree views of the water. The design's two wings are connected by a glassy bridge, framing the lake upon arrival. The exterior's black-stained cedar and charcoal metal roof lead to an interior articulated by fir ceiling beams and gabled end walls. Windows line the gathering spaces, and a generous screen porch captures the panoramic vista.⁠
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Designed by Dale Mulfinger, FAIA and Marta Snow, AIA⁠
Construction: Scott Jorgensen Custom Builders⁠
Photography: Troy Thies

05/19/2026

Backyard Bungalow is in the Spring 2026 issue of as a first place winner of a Midwest Design Award this year! The ADU offers hybridity and flexibility for indoor-outdoor entertainment, remote work and guest accommodations. Get a copy to see all award winners!⁠
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Designed by Jody McGuire, AIA with Katie Leaf, AIA⁠
Construction: ⁠
Landscape Architecture: ⁠
Cabinetry: ⁠
Photography: .three.photography

05/03/2026

Under Construction!⁠
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Doubled wood columns pair with single roof and floor beams to create a uniformly spaced structural system that carries through the main living pavilion. Space is enclosed with windows and walls that infill between the structure and create a delightful rhythmic pattern expressed to the outside. Dark vertical trim boards align with the beams and break the lighter grey siding into distinct panels, further expressing the structural layout of the building. Designed by David O’Brien Wagner, AIA, with Nate Ehrlich and Max Ouellette-Howitz, AIA.

05/02/2026

Under Construction!⁠
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North Shore cabin inspired by the Mid-Century architecture of Marcel Breuer. Featuring exposed beams, tongue-and-groove siding, and board-formed concrete, the simple forms are designed to harmoniously connect with the surrounding woods and lakeshore. Designed by David O’Brien Wagner, AIA, with Nate Ehrlich and Max Ouellette-Howitz, AIA.

04/25/2026

The material palette of this lake home is saturated with inspiration from the land - forms, textures, vegetation, and colors of the site were combined in assembling this shoreline stage. The forest and granite show up in structure and cladding, paired with colors of lichen and pine needles in the cabinets and tile. Counterpoints of black steel enliven these natural elements, resulting in a lake home in harmony with its site. Designed by Eric Odor, AIA with Caitlin Dippo.⁠
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Interior Design: ⁠
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