Purchased in 2017, this dated Lake Saint Louis home was in desperate need of a complete overhaul. Looking to incorporate an effortless sophistication while remaining grounded in comfort and livability, Tegethoff Homes, Link Architecture and Temple and Hentz Design

teamed up to complete this major renovation. “This project was all about redefining what a lakeside home can be,” says Wendy Steinbecker of Temple and Hentz. “Rather than leaning into a traditional or rustic lake aesthetic, the goal was to create a clean, modern and natural vibe—something elevated, more functional for entertaining and refreshingly unexpected in this setting.”

    The main living areas were opened up to improve the home’s flow and to encourage both visual and social connection. Utilizing their proximity to the lake, the updated layout reinforces an indoor-outdoor relationship, opening the walls to draw visitors’ eyes towards the water. “When we purchased the house, life was too busy to start a renovation, so we lived and entertained in it for seven years, which gave us a much better idea of how we actually used the spaces,” says the homeowner. What started as a few cosmetic changes turned into a full gut renovation, complete with a lofted ceiling in the guest bedroom, a florida room-turned-dining room and a bar and beverage station next to the kitchen repurposed from an indoor koi pond.

    Refined materials were used throughout the home to enhance its beauty and functionality. “The material selections really set this home apart from the rest. They abound at every corner and surprise you in every room,” says Matthew Cerretti, vice president of Tegethoff Homes. In the primary bathroom, large-format slabs are used to create a sense of calm and layered textures are incorporated throughout the main living spaces. To accommodate for guests, two islands were added to the kitchen, creating space for prep and gathering. “The lake view is absolutely the showstopper,” Wendy mentions. “But beyond that, it’s the subtle layering of design choices that make the home special: hidden storage solutions, unexpected moments of luxury and the balance between openness and intimacy in the layout.” A highlight of the transformation is the new hidden butler's pantry and a bar and beverage station, which now serve to accommodate guests while managing busy kitchen traffic. 

    The transformation wasn’t without some obstacles. “There were significant hurdles throughout the home,” says Matthew. “It needed some structural modificatons, and these were not discovered until the deconstruction of the project had taken place.”  During the renovation process, they discovered inadequate main-level support and installed three new steel beams to alleviate the issue. The transformation took about a year to complete, with additional changes made to create skylights in the primary bathroom and vaulted ceilings in the first floor guest suite. 

    Overall, the collaboration of the entire team created a seamless process that ensured the homeowner's vision was met and elevated throughout the renovation. “We had some vision for what we wanted but Temple and Hentz, and our architect Tom McGraw of Link Architecture, came up with ideas for reimagining the layout that we never would have considered and now just love,” says the homeowner. “They recommended Tegethoff Homes to us because their construction, workmanship and finishes are exceptional and they lived up to their reputation.” 

    With 180-degree lake views and ample room for entertainment, it’s no wonder the homeowners love to entertain in their refinished home. “Our first big event after the renovation completion was a 50-person party with a live band that we were able to host in the house with room to spare when it rained that night,” the homeowner continues. “It really is beyond what we could have even imagined. We walk into the house and feel both at home and on vacation at the same time.”  

Resources: 

Cabinetry: Miller’s Holzwerk

Carpet/Wood/Floor Covering: Pro Source

Closet: The Closet Company

Fireplace: Flooring Systems Inc, Fireplace Cladding

Granite Fabricator: SFI

Granite Supplier: Consentino, Midwest Tile Marble and Granite

Technology: HD Media

Appliances: Furguson

Plumbing: Immerse

Window Treatments: Primary Bedroom Cornices

Window/Door: Pella

Wallpaper: Tim Bodine - Installer