In the small town of Gary, MN (pop. 227), big ideas are taking root. On Mike and Brenda Chisholm’s fourth-generation family farm, the harvest isn’t just about crops — it’s about cultivating healthier soil for healthier people. From their fields to your fork, the Chisholm family is milling a bounty of Mother Nature's best.
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THE RESIDENCE AT VALLEY VIEW ESTATES | THOMSEN HOMES
Fresh from the BIA's Fall Parade of Homes, we're taking a Thomsen Homes tour of three beautiful abodes in Fargo's newest premier community, The Residence at Valley View Estates. On our first stop, we introduce you to Rebecca Rydell, a beloved interior designer, mom, NDSU alum, and now, president of Thomsen Homes. Rebecca brings equal parts vision and heart — shaping not just homes, but the future of Thomsen Homes.
PAGE 46
THE JAMES 2.0 | KRUEGER CONSTRUCTION
Featured on the BIA's Fall Parade of Homes, Krueger Construction's new model home, the James 2.0, does not disappoint. This English Tudor two-story in West Fargo's Rivers Bend neighborhood checks all the boxes, with four bedrooms, a loft, a sunroom, Venetian plaster, over-mortared stone, and elegant Tudor archways. We loved the original James model, but James 2.0.... It's next-level comfort and oldworld craftsmanship.
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THE ART OF BEAUTY | CENTER FOR PLASTIC SURGERY
The Center for Plastic Surgery & Medspa may specialize in outer aesthetics, but our interest is focused inward, to the tranquil beauty of its newly completed 9,300-square-foot South Fargo practice. Here, Dr. Nicholas and Alissa Adams' architectural endeavor was led with surgical precision, a team effort flawlessly executed by Enclave, Strom Architecture, and Brandi Youngmark Interior Design. In a place designed to catalyze confidence, this team's pursuit of perfection comes naturally.
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GALLERY 4 AT 50 | DOWNTOWN FARGO
At 50 years young, Gallery 4 is in its prime — shining even brighter than the day it was born in 1975. As Fargo's oldest art co-op gallery—and the nation's oldest consecutively-running artist cooperative—this crafty collective has mastered the art of community impact and creative evolution. To mark the milestone, we toured the gallery, browsed the Made in Fargo shop, and met the makers themselves— from one of the founding visionaries to beloved veterans and emerging artists— those coloring the next 50 years of art, community, and connection.
Cover Photography by Dan Francis Photography
MOOSE DIXON PENTHOUSE
DOWNTOWN FARGO
It's showtime! Overlooking Broadway in the heart of downtown Fargo, the Moose Dixon Penthouse sets the stage for a VIP view of Fargo Theatre’s iconic marquee. Inside, broker John Knosalla, along with interior designer Brandi Youngmark, took on a 3,302-square-foot renovation and historic preservation, completing an extraordinary design inspired by the original vision of its previous owner and local entrepreneur, the late Ace Brandt.
read the full story on page 14
MAGAZINE
North & Nest Magazine is a free, local publication distributed quarterly in print and online, with new issues arriving each January, April, July, and October. North & Nest invites readers on an exclusive tour of the Midwest’s most extraordinary homes, businesses, galleries, outdoor environments, and day-trip destinations. Welcome home to the warmth of the north!
PUBLISHER
tracy nicholson
GRAPHIC
sarah
GRAPHIC
dennis krull
SOCIAL MEDIA
tracy nicholson
EDITORIAL
tracy nicholson
CIRCULATION hal ecker
WEBSITE DESIGN
sarah geiger
WEBSITE CONTRIBUTOR
erica rapp & ethan mickelson
ADVERTISING SALES
tracy nicholson
NORTH & NEST, LLC
PRINT
forum communications printing
PHOTOGRAPHY
dan francis photography chase evert, chase chapters morgan allora, studio freshly dennis krull, 5foot20 design lounge britta the photographer karisa shuck adshark marketing tiffanie honeyman, opgo marketing brenda chisholm
CONTRIBUTORS
brandi youngmark
john knosalla brenda chisholm karisa shuck kimberly krueger-tehan dennis krull lauren huff
2008 Ann Street | West Fargo, ND 58078
North & Nest is distributed in all major grocery stores and hundreds of retail locations across Fargo-Moorhead-West Fargo, Horace, Grand Forks, Wahpeton, and select lakes area locations. Read North & Nest each quarter online at northnestmagazine.com and issuu.com. ADVERTISING INQUIRIES | QUESTIONS tracy@northnestmagazine.com
SAVE THE DATE!
October 4-5: Studio Crawl 2025 | fmva.org
anyways, we gather
'Tis the season when life starts to resemble a three-month-long potluck — a little bit of everything we love, plus a few dicey dishes we politely decline. This time of year, we all have a lot on our plates. Armed with tiered to-do lists, family recipes, a trio of themed decor, and a fridge full of leftovers and lefse, the mission is simple — make magic happen, no matter how messy life gets.
Really, it's the same sentiment that got this publication through its first two years, despite me not having the time and means to do it. Last night, at Olivet Lutheran's Family Faith Night, my kids and I were introduced to a similar life perspective by Dr. Jacqueline Bussie, who spoke of holding onto hope and faith in hard times. She explained why the world needs "anyways people," those who wake up, show up, and do the good work despite the challenges.
October 4: Oktoberfest at Drekker | Drekker Brewing Company, Fargo
October 4-5: Fall Festival at The 44 | Colfax, ND
October 4: Red River Market Harvest Fest | Fargo Broadway Square
October 5: Brewhalla Fall Craft Market | Brewhalla, Fargo
October 11: Red Rover Market - FM Area Foundation | Fargo Broadway Square
October 11: Unglued Fall Retreat | Crooked Lane Farm - Colfax, ND
October 17-18: 2025 Fargo Mini Marathon | Fargo Civic Center
October 18: Unglued Fall Retreat | Crooked Lane Farm - Colfax, ND
October 18: Red River Market - Market Day | Fargo Broadway Square
October 25: Red River Market - Closing Day/Halloween | Fargo Broadway Square
October 25: Trick or Treat Wish Walk | Downtown Fargo
October 28: Moorhead Farmers Market | Hjemkomst Center
November 9: Fraser Ltd.’s 25th Annual Festival of Trees | Fargodome
November 23: HollyDazzle: Festival of Lights | Town Square - Grand Forks
November 28: Folkways Christkindlmarkt | Fargo Civic Center
November 28: Plaid Friday - Wear Plaid, Shop Small | Downtown Fargo
December 2: Holiday Kick-Off & Tree Lighting | Hjemkomst Center - Moorhead
December 7: Xcel Energy Holiday Lights Parade | Downtown Fargo
December 11: Holiday Business After Hours | Delta Hotels by Marriott- Fargo
December 18: Rock & Roll Christmas | Historic Holmes Theatre - Detroit Lakes
One could say North & Nest was made to tell the story of "anyways people," from a broker who devoted years to finishing a dream that another had started, to a Gary, MN, family who flipped 100 years of tradition to embrace regenerative agriculture practices. Two families of builders who have beat the odds, a successful plastic surgeon raised on a Grand Forks farm, and the 12 founders and 50 artists who ensured Fargo's oldest art co-op gallery exists to inspire... they also match the description. None of them had 24/7 cheerleaders rooting them on along the way, but they all did it anyway. They embraced the uncomfortable, made sense of the mess, and looked for the magic within themselves and others, realizing that life is less about what you bring to the table and more about who's gathered around it.
Before we start filling our plates for the holidays ahead, I want to sincerely thank our team, readers, and the many anyways people who have filled our cups with inspiration over the last two years. And as always, this is your friendly reminder to please shop small and show your support for the local non-profits and small businesses that help our community survive and thrive.
Seasons Greetings & Gratitude,
Tracy Nicholson Editor | Publisher
photo by ab images
CONTRIBUTORS
Dan is the lead architectural photographer for North & Nest Magazine and owner of Dan Francis Photography in Fargo, ND. Dan brings 21 years of experience to North & Nest, a Master's and Craftsman degree in Photography, and nearly eight years of experience as a Photography and Photoshop instructor for M-State College. His architecture photography seamlessly blends precision and artistry to elevate his clients' brand impact. Dan's work can be found at DanFrancisPhotography.com or on Instagram @danfrancisphoto.
day, Tracy is an architectural writer at JLG Architects in Fargo, ND, specializing in the communication of architecture, landscape, sustainable construction, and interior design. After hours, she is the owner and editor of North & Nest Magazine based in West Fargo, ND. Tracy's work has been published in over 100 magazine editions, earning over 40 local and national journalism awards from the North Dakota Professional Communicators Association and the National Federation of Press Women, in addition to several publishing awards from the Minnesota Magazine & Publishers Association and the ND Chapter of the American Advertising Federation. Tracy earned a BS in Mass Communications - Public Relations/ Advertising at Minnesota State University Moorhead.
Morgan is the owner of Studio Freshly, a queer-woman-owned photography company based in the F-M area. Specializing in small business branding, she enjoys documenting products, process, experience, portraits, and events. Morgan is a firm believer in elevating a business’ special sauce by translating exceptional product or service into visuals that share with the public what she refers to as "badassery." She earned a degree in Graphic Design and Public Relations from Concordia College, later discovering the art of photography in serving her passion for connection, community, and storytelling through imagery. To find her work, connect with her on Facebook or Instagram @ studiofreshly, or view her full portfolio at studiofreshly.com
Sarah is North & Nest's layout graphic designer, web designer, and owner of a freelance design studio in Fargo, ND. She provides a variety of creative services, including brand identity, logo design, icon and infographic development and social and advertising materials. Sarah also brings over eight years of magazine design, having been the lead designer and art director for several local publications. Sarah attended Minnesota State University Moorhead, where she earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design. Find her work on Instagram @imsarahgeiger or view her portfolio at sarahgeigerdesign.com.
As the owner of Amdak Productions, LLC, a creative services company based in Fargo, Micah brings 25 years of experience specializing in photography, videography, drone, and Matterport services for clients across the nation. Amdak is highly regarded for its exceptional work, spanning from Minnesota's northern lakes to New Mexico deserts, Rocky Mountains peaks, and Mexican beaches. Amdak goes wherever the work is, partnering with companies big and small, near and far, to help them #ownthelook. Follow him on Instagram @zhotography & @ amdak_productions.
Dennis is a Midwest-based photographer, graphic designer, illustrator, encaustic/fine artist, and owner of 5foot20 Design Lounge in Moorhead, MN. He received his BFA in Graphic Design from Minnesota State University Moorhead and has spent the past 30 years working on a wide range of creative services for local and national clients. When Dennis is not designing or working in photography, he can be found at Gallery 4 artist coop in downtown Fargo. View his work at Gallery 4, 5foot20.com, or follow him on Instagram @5foot20design
Jill is a contributing photographer with 22 years of photography experience. Her award-winning work engages natural light and professionally curated lighting techniques to produce high-quality organic and expressive imagery, primarily focused on home interiors, commercial business, and architectural photography. Jill has a BA in Mass Communications from Minnesota State University Moorhead with an emphasis in photojournalism and broadcast journalism and a Post-Bachelor Independent Study in commercial video production. Jill's work can be found at ockhardtphoto.com or on Instagram @ jillockhardtblaufuss.
Kristen is a brand designer and photographer based in Ottertail, MN. She is a creative, with the passion to share and preserve business owners' God-given gifts and talents, whether building brands or capturing products and services. Fueled by connection and creativity, collaboration is a huge part of Kristen’s working process. Her background in art and knowledge with a camera provides clients with an authentic photo gallery of intentional and connective imagery that speaks for them - boosting both confidence and professionalism from the getgo. Follow Kristen on Facebook + Instagram @kristenjyrkas.creative or view her portfolio at kristenjyrkas.com
By
JILL OCKHARDT BLAUFUSS
MICAH J. ZIMMERMAN
MORGAN ALLORA
DAN FRANCIS M.PHOTOG, CR. CPP
DENNIS KRULL
SARAH GEIGER
TRACY NICHOLSON
KRISTEN JYRKAS
Alyssa is a contributing writer with an innate flair for storytelling, a passion sparked in her childhood as she filled notebooks with songs and short stories. With a degree in Management Communications from NDSU, her journey into writing blossomed, leading her to capture the essence of architecture, interior design, and business in the FM area. A creative soul with an eye for detail, she later ventured to Southern California, where she honed her copywriting skills for a financial services firm before later contributing to the internal communications of Microsoft's Customer Service & Support organization. Now, Alyssa is thrilled to bring her passion for building connections and crafting compelling tales back to her home state.
Chase Evert is an FM-based photographer. Commercially, he specializes in architecture, interior design, accessory fashion, and real estate photography. As a creative outlet, he found a passion for documenting life around him. His nostalgic, candid style has brought him from downtown Fargo into elusive artist's studios, onto saddles on horse ranches out West, and documenting state and national parks across Minnesota and North Dakota. His fine art prints of rolling hills, sentinel skyscrapers, and vibrant friend groups are all snapshots of where these lifestyles take place. You can find his work on Instagram @ChaseEvert or through his website www.chasechapters.com
Alison is an ad designer for North & Nest Magazine and the owner of Creative Monke. With over 15 years of experience in graphic design and marketing, Alison has a passion for simple, clean, and effective design. She strives to not only understand her client's needs but also the client's audience in order to create the best visual design to speak to them. Find her work on Facebook or Instagram @ CreativeMonke or creativemonke.com.
As North & Nest's Circulation Manager, Hal ensures magazines get premium placement at hundreds of local retail locations, grocery stores, events, and outlying markets. Hal, originally from Grandin, ND, is a graduate of NDSU and a super fan of Bison Football. He contributes a background in sales from AmeriPride Services and Sanford Health, along with over 20 years of circulation management experience for The Forum and several other local publications.
Owner of Britta the Photographer, Britta has been making images that capture personality and purpose for just over 20 years. Specializing in business photography including headshots, brand storytelling, and events, she also runs Studio Borealis, a versatile photography studio for rent. Known for an approachable, collaborative style, she helps clients feel comfortable and confident, prioritizing authenticity, connection, and a relaxed, natural approach. You can see her work at www.brittathephotographer.com or on socials @brittathephotographer.
ALISON MONKE
CHASE EVERT
ALYSSA NISHEK
HAL ECKER
BRITTA TRYGSTAD
Moose Dixon Penthouse DOWNTOWN FARGO
by TRACY NICHOLSON
It’s showtime! Overlooking Broadway in the heart of downtown Fargo, the Moose Dixon Penthouse sets the stage for a VIP view of Fargo Theatre’s iconic marquee. The sky-high penthouse crowns a landmark 1905 building that was once home to Dixon Laundry, Dixon Hotel, and the Moose Lodge. Inside, broker John Knosalla, along with interior designer Brandi Youngmark, took on a 3,302-square-foot renovation and historic preservation, completing an extraordinary design inspired by the original vision of its previous owner and local entrepreneur, the late Ace Brandt. Although Ace wasn’t able to see the home he envisioned come to life, his legacy lives on by design, stealing the show from floor to rooftop patios.
photos by DAN FRANCIS PHOTOGRAPHY & CHASE EVERT
JOHN KNOSALLA JK Property Partners Oxford Realty
photo by DAN FRANCIS PHOTOGRAPHY
SKY’S THE LIMIT
Bypassing the heated underground parking, we’re riding this elevator straight to the top, where a breathtaking fusion of historic elegance and contemporary sophistication harmoniously resides. Inside this two-bed, two-bath luxury penthouse, striking architectural forms are born to invite natural light, framing Fargo’s iconic skyline like a work of fine art.
A HISTORIC INVESTMENT
The Moose Dixon Penthouse, at 305 Broadway North, was listed in August by John Knosalla of JK Property Partners/Oxford Realty for $2.5M. Today, the penthouse and the entire building are officially under contract, in record time. To John, the building and penthouse were more than just another hot listing, a meaningful two-year investment that revitalizes a local legend’s decade-long downtown dream and the Moose Dixon’s historic prestige.
When John and his partners purchased the Moose Dixon building in 2023, its penthouse had been sitting empty since 2007 — unfinished but fully architecturally drawn for the vision of Fargo entrepreneur Ace Brandt. Before his passing in 2021, Ace was a transformative force in Fargo’s development — blending agriculture, real estate, sports, and hospitality into a dynamic national and regional legacy, including founding Brandt Holdings, Brandt Hospitality Group, and the Fargo Force hockey team, among others.
Ace was well known for his exquisite design eye, inspiring John to invest over a year of researching and planning to uncover the original penthouse plan. To help decipher the complexities of its unique floorplan and global finish selections, John recruited Brandi Youngmark Interior Design, who meticulously balanced historic preservation, Ace’s original contemporary design, and today’s warmer, emerging styles.
A BLANK CANVAS
When John first acquired the property, much of the building had been gutted by Ace’s team, primarily a shell, with minimal rough-ins of plumbing and electrical, along with a completed excavation for heated underground parking. The penthouse had also been entirely overhauled, including a complete reconstruction of the roofline. Ace had worked with a Chicagobased architect to create the extraordinary barrel ceiling and turnbuckle beams in raw Douglas Fir, which John discovered still wrapped in plastic. The barrel form strategically places 26 skyline windows around the entire perimeter of the great room, kitchen, and dining room.
photo by DAN FRANCIS PHOTOGRAPHY
ACE + ARTISTRY
Throughout the penthouse, Brandi and John referenced Ace’s design as inspiration, tracking down and sourcing many of the light fixtures chosen in the original plans, including the dining room’s Louis Poulsen Enigma pendants by Japanese designer Shoichi Uchiyama. This pendant is designed with thin layers of concentric circles and floating shades held by ultra-thin wires, creating the illusion of selfsuspended light expression.
To contrast and complement the more contemporary illusion, John worked with Fargo Woodworks to design a seamless 12-foot live-edge walnut dining table, which required eight people to transport. The entertaining space is accented with bold splashes of color from a trio of original canvases by Fargo artist Kate
Baldock. “I love Kate’s work; it really helped bring the space to life,” said Youngmark. “Although several of Ace’s selections were Italian, we felt it was really important to incorporate the work of local artists and craftsmen whenever possible.”
To complete the original framedout niche near the elevator, John went further into the Midwest to find a perfect vertical fit within the gallery of HUDA, a Detroit artist who created the natural oxidation steel patina abstract sculpture.
“We tried to stay true to Aces’ vision as much as we could,” said Knosalla. “He kind of gave us the template, and we wanted to pay homage to what he had envisioned. It may be unassuming from the outside, but the inside is a New York luxury penthouse in the heartbeat of Fargo.”
photos by
DAN
FRANCIS PHOTOGRAPHY
CUCINA MODERNA
At the heart of the penthouse is a state-of-the-art Italian Valcucine kitchen, renowned for its sustainable and ergonomically designed kitchen systems. The company was founded in Pordenone—the heart of Italy’s “kitchen valley”— and designed for intuitive, reach-first interaction. This architecturally-orchestrated system, chosen by Ace nearly a decade ago, preserves the sleek aesthetic of the open floor plan by concealing everyday appliances and tools in recyclable glass, aluminum, steel, and walnut.
When Ace’s assets were liquidated, John and his partners negotiated a deal for the Moose Dixon building, which included this kitchen. “The entire kitchen system sat in climate-controlled storage in boxes and crates for about eight years,” explained Knosalla. “We didn’t know what it was, if all the pieces were there, or if it was in good shape — nobody knew, and the instructions were in Italian. There was no way to take an inventory, so we rolled the dice.”
Searching for an elite installer of the Italian line, John eventually tracked down Kevin Mullally through DOM Interiors in Minneapolis, the only installer of Valcucine kitchens in this part of the country. Despite thousands of pieces laid out across the entire penthouse floor, the installation process only took three weeks, thankfully with every finite piece accounted for. Ace’s timeless taste and John’s roll of the dice paid off — in pristine condition, this distinct style remains a sought-after system at Valcucine today, with a bold $500,000 price tag.
Once installed, the chef’s kitchen was outfitted with top-of-the-line Miele appliances, including an induction cooktop architecturally camouflaged by an elevated sliding chop in Corian. Dishware and common kitchen tools
are also aesthetically hidden beneath lift-up cabinet panels constructed in lightweight aluminum and a high-gloss thermo-lacquered finish. Other hidden features include a corner pantry, matte glass backsplash,
and an oversized walnut spice rack. One of the kitchen’s signature Valcucine features is its back-painted glass doors and transparent glass-bottom drawers, which lend the illusion of floating flatware and cutlery.
Traveling around the perimeter, wet bar, and island are ultra-thin Penins granite countertops, a walnut waterfall bar, dual sinks, a climatecontrolled wine fridge, a built-in icemaker, two beverage fridges, and an espresso machine — complete with coffee cup warming drawers. The nearly 12-foot island includes a separate walnut counter on the seating side, with a sleek granite surrounding the sink’s hidden stainless steel amenities, including built-in outlets, a plumbed-in drying rack, and arm’s-reach storage for cleaning essentials.
BUTLER’S PANTRY
Beyond the chef’s kitchen, a butler’s pantry provides necessities for both entertaining and utility, including additional storage, mechanical, ovens and warming drawers, and a limited edition Valcucine tambour garage door that reveals a full-size washer and dryer.
photo by CHASE EVERT
photo by CHASE EVERT
photo by CHASE EVERT
photo by DAN FRANCIS PHOTOGRAPHY
GREAT ROOM
In the great room, the openconcept flows effortlessly under exposed I-beams and barrel ceilings from dining to living, featuring automated shades, a dual-zone furnace, invisible speakers, and smart lighting, all powered by a full smart home system installed by Signature Home Technologies.
Alongside exposed, Europeanstyle suspended can lights, the penthouse’s 24 Caden pendants add elevated interest and dimension between the barrel form’s upper windows, Douglas Fir beams, and 17-foot cedar ceilings.
The stunning great room expanse is divided into two distinct entertaining zones that extend to the rooftop patio through a glass door and six poplar and custom steel-framed windows. A formal seating lounge includes a fusion of more contemporary and structured vintage pieces around concrete nesting tables and a glassed-in linear fireplace by Hebron Brick. The larger, more informal seating space positions the original brick wall as its focal point, inviting curated comfort, with distressed jewel-toned suede, sleek sofa lines, and organic linen blends.
“All of Ace’s projects have been monumental, from the design of his Fargo homes to his lake homes,” added Youngmark. “He has worked all over the world on his hotels and other projects, with a vision that is so much more than what we would typically see in the Midwest. His plans for this penthouse showed a lot of really forward design thinking.”
BRANDI YOUNGMARK Interior Designer
Brandi hand-selected all of the furnishings at the South Carolina Market, where she sourced several one-of-a-kind pieces from high-end global collections. “With the furnishings, we really wanted to keep the great room open and airy, but include some warm, eclectic pieces — a design that was a little more linear, contemporary, and low-profile,” explained Youngmark. “We chose a few more masculine pieces that were a nod to Ace’s original intent and that period of his life, including a variety of warm tones and natural textures with contemporary leather and suede elements.”
ILLUMINATE THE WAY
Signature to the more private living spaces are eight-foot solid wood Bayer Built doors with striking chrome inlays and historic hallways that preserve the building’s weathered brick Wrigley branding, now a poetic urban canvas.
The walkways are further illuminated with an artistic interpretation of in-wall lighting more commonly used in commercial hospitality settings. This InvisiLED lighting, installed by K&D Electric, surrounds
the elevator arrival before architecturally bending corners with a linear design into the private living corridors; a unique feature first envisioned by Ace nearly ten years ago.
“The biggest challenge of this project was time; it took about a year longer than I thought to source everything,” said Knosalla. “We were very particular about the fit to finish. Going back to Ace’s vision, then trying to marry it all together — we had one shot, and we had to do it right.”
photos by DAN FRANCIS PHOTOGRAPHY
PENTHOUSE PRECISION
The penthouse’s private primary suite is where good mornings are gifted a front row view of Broadway and the iconic Fargo Theater marquee. Here, John went to great lengths to preserve the building’s original brick through dry-ice blasting by Bradco Restoration, cleaning and revealing remnants of the wall’s historic Dixon Steam Co. branding. While visually experiencing a bustling Broadway, this primary is designed to quiet the action, including two layers of 3/4” plywood, a 3/4” rubber membrane, and spray foam across the entire subfloor of the penthouse.
“With this view at the heart of the city, I think this is the most iconic home in downtown Fargo.”
JK Property Partners Oxford Realty
Brandi and John curated every captivating element to effortlessly frame the skyline and historic features without distraction. The signature marquee, first installed in 1926 and upgraded in 2019, was the clear focal point, inspiring the suite’s Art Deco surroundings
of mid-century modern globe pendants, marble tops, and a fluted walnut headboard. Bringing the room’s branded brick further into the design, Brandi and John highlighted its full expression with a suspended corner fireplace and cozy club chairs.
JOHN KNOSALLA
photo by DAN FRANCIS PHOTOGRAPHY
photo by DAN FRANCIS PHOTOGRAPHY
In this penthouse retreat, even the primary bath puts on a Broadway performance, directing natural light to wall-hung walnut vanities, European Riobel plumbing, three-inch quartz tops, largeformat porcelain tile, and backlit smart mirrors. Brandi created visual separation for his and hers vanities with exquisite velvet benches, original Kate Baldock canvases, and an oversized acidwash mirror that leans into the building’s original brick, glowing from above with an installation of discreet LED lighting.
Follow the restored brick wall past a private toilet room and into a semi-private soaker tub room, where a glass-enclosed shower is set aglow by the nostalgia of electrical insulator sconces — a nod to downtown Fargo’s industrial past and Ace’s original design. On this brick wall, John removed a large window that looked directly into another building, working with Bradco to infill new brick while preserving the original archway form.
photo by CHASE EVERT
photo by DAN FRANCIS PHOTOGRAPHY
photo by DAN FRANCIS PHOTOGRAPHY
photo by DAN FRANCIS PHOTOGRAPHY
BE OUR GUEST
Within the private living corridor is a serene and contemporary guest quarters designed with soffit lighting and an alternate entrance through a coordinating chromeinlay sliding barn door.
“Most people think interior designers are just picking out pillows and going shopping, but there is a lot of project management that goes into figuring out how to execute and
construct a design so it achieves the desired function and flow,” explained Youngmark. “John and I made a really good team; it was all about collaboration.”
“I’ve been in a lot of projects, but until this one, I truly have never seen how well interior designers can make a space come alive,” said Knosalla. “Brandi nailed it — every step of the way she understood my vision, and it felt like we were on the same page.”
ELEVATED ENTERTAINING
Designed to be an extension of the great room, the primary rooftop patio is a destination for elevated entertaining. Here, John and Brandi chose Hebron Brick’s pedestal tiles to complete the once rubbercoated roof, then worked with Mayhem Metal for custom steel café light poles. They also added a sustainably designed privacy wall in architectural MAC steel siding from Hebron Brick, installed by Knoke Seamless. This wall transitions its woodlook recyclable steel from the new wall to partial-height wall cladding throughout the patio’s expanse. To prime sky-high dining for 21 guests, the two returned to Hebron Brick to add the finishing touches, integrating a premium line of outdoor kitchen grills, cabinetry, and furnishings alongside a linear gas fire table.
photo by DAN FRANCIS PHOTOGRAPHY
photo by DAN FRANCIS PHOTOGRAPHY
photo by CHASE EVERT
photo by CHASE EVERT
Off a private entrance on the fifth floor of the penthouse is a second walkable rooftop patio directly behind the historic pediment panel at the face of the Moose Dixon building. This patio is plumbed for a hot tub and planned for an alternate
entertaining space, with a putting green overlooking Broadway. From this patio, a small path takes guests on a walk past the Ipe-cladded entrance and the interior’s barrel ceiling windows, with an overlook of the penthouse’s primary patio.
PRESERVATION FOR THE NEXT GENERATION
The Moose Dixon’s encore offers far more than penthouse views; it’s an entirely revitalized building, now home to 11 fully occupied apartments and streetlevel amenities, including The Toasted Frog and Starion Bank. John considers the building “the nicest 120-year-old building in downtown Fargo,” and for good reason. With the blood, sweat, and tears of John, Brandi, two architects, and a talented team of Midwestern artisans, Ace’s vision has come full circle as the centerpiece of historic Broadway.
“From picking selections to making sure Ace’s vision lived on in every detail, this felt personal at every step,” said Knosalla. “Late nights and early mornings here became the norm. My wife Danielle held down the fort and gave me the space to dedicate so much of myself to this building. In many ways, we became ‘downtown people.’
Our date nights were dinners at The Toasted Frog and evenings brainstorming by the fireplace overlooking the Fargo Theatre.”
“It’s hard to put into words what it means to see this building move into its next chapter. The Moose Dixon isn’t just real estate; it’s history, vision, and countless hours of work. I know Ace would be proud, not only of the final result, but of the person stepping in to carry the Moose Dixon forward.”
JOHN KNOSALLA JK Property Partners Oxford Realty
DESIGN DETAILS:
Realtor-Developer: John Knosalla, JK Property Partners/Oxford Realty
In the small town of Gary, MN (pop. 227), big ideas have taken root.
On Mike and Brenda Chisholm’s fourth-generation family farm, the harvest isn’t just about crops — it’s about cultivating healthier soil for healthier people. Embracing regenerative agriculture practices, they’re letting the soil do what it does best: thrive naturally. Think of it as farming in harmony with Mother Nature’s original blueprint.
From their fields to your fork, the Chisholm family is serving up a bounty of naturally bred buckwheat for fresh stone-milled flour and pantry staples as wholesome as they are sustainable.
by
TRACY NICHOLSON photos by BRENDA CHISHOLM drone images by TIFFANIE HONEYMAN
Fertile Soil
When Mike Chisholm’s great-grandparents first tilled the fertile soil of Gary, MN, 125 years ago, they built the foundation for a legacy of farming excellence. Today, the family’s pride and a growing field of knowledge are carried into the future by Mike and Brenda. Together, they’re filling pantries around the country with farm-fresh ingredients grown with care, packed with nutrients, and bursting with Mother Nature’s goodness.
Brenda, who is originally from Watertown, SD, met Mike while attending Moorhead State University (MSUM) in 1993. Eventually, she settled an hour away in the small town of Gary, where the two married in 2001. While their two older daughters pursued other career paths—Savannah as an LPN and Morgan, a senior at NDSU, majoring in accounting—their 20-year-old son, Alex, farms alongside them, helping carry on the family tradition.
Cultivating & Regenerating
In the early years, Mike and Brenda farmed more conventional crops like corn, soybeans, small grains, and alfalfa. When Mike started hearing about regenerative farming practices, he dug into the research and couldn’t ignore the homegrown logic of healthier soil and grains. Ten years into building their family and farm, the Chisholms took the leap, officially shifting their operations to more sustainable, regenerative farming practices.
Buckwheat & Berries
Chisholm Trail Farm, which opened in June 2024, specializes in growing, milling, and packaging buckwheat groats and flour, hard red spring wheat berries and flour, and rye berries and flour, all grown through regenerative agricultural practices. Their farm’s staple is naturally bred buckwheat, grown without genetic modification and without glyphosate-based herbicides — making it cleaner and healthier to consume.
“Chisholm Trail Farm had been a dream of Mike’s since he was 18 years old,” said Brenda. “He has always wanted to process, package, and sell direct to consumers. There was never a right time until then; it just felt right. Prior, we raised our crops, harvested them, and hauled them into the elevator. We now keep our crop, clean it, package it, and sell directly. People know where they are getting their product from and from whom.”
Fresh Flour
The Chisholms are currently milling flour from home, but to meet the demand, they’ve recently raised a new building on the farm. By the end of 2025, this building will be the headquarters of the farm’s cleaning and processing equipment, stone mill, and test kitchen.
Brenda’s expertise in milling fresh flour is primarily self-taught, catalyzed five years ago by ordering an attachment for her KitchenAid mixer. “I had Mike bring in wheat from the bin so I could try milling to see if I was able to eat whole grain wheat versus storebought wheat,” explained Brenda. “We kept researching over the years as to how to mill our wheat and buckwheat into flour. Earlier this year, we bought two commercial stone mills that we are using to grind our flour.”
“We wanted to be able to provide food that was more nutritionally dense and easier to digest,” explained Brenda. “By milling the whole kernel, we keep the two essential parts of the kernel, the bran and the germ — these two are typically removed during commercial milling and synthetically added back in. We grind them in the flour and do not add anything else.” Dedicated to continuing their craft and learning new techniques, the family has worked with NDSU’s Northern Crops Institute (NCI) over the last several years. Last spring, Brenda participated in the Stone Milling Course and spent a week at NCI learning about wheat, stone milling, and baking with fresh-milled flour.
Pantry Powerhouse
Fresh from the farm, the family’s buckwheat is a popular ingredient known for its nutty, earthy flavors, offering a powerhouse of naturally high fiber, gluten-free nutrients. It’s also an excellent source of prebiotics and essential amino acids, making it a complete protein. The Chisholm family regularly incorporates it into their daily diet, including cooking or toasting the buckwheat for salad toppings, oatmeal, and granola. Their buckwheat is also stone milled into flour, which makes excellent pancakes and waffles.
The family also crafts wheat flour, which is ground from the entire wheat berry kernel, including the bran, a fiber-rich outer layer, the germ, a nutrient-dense core, and the endosperm, a starchy middle consisting of
mostly carbohydrates and protein. When all three are milled together and stone-ground, the result is a less-processed wheat flour that retains its natural flavor and nutrition.
The family will soon be adding ancient grains to their product line, including Einkorn, Emmer, and a heritage wheat, Red Fife. Emmer wheatberry is a nutty-flavored, chewy cereal grain with a rich history dating back to the Mesopotamians and Egyptians. It’s often referred to as a farro grain, which encompasses three ancient wheat varieties: emmer, spelt, and einkorn. Emmer wheat— with a robust flavor that pairs well with vegetables and herbs—is commonly used to make soups, stews, salads, and pilafs. Additionally, Emmer wheatberries can be milled into fresh flour and used to make bread, pasta, pancakes, and other baked goods.
Family Favorites
Hands down, the Chisholm family favorite is rye flour, which Brenda uses to make cookies, brownies, cakes, and breads — all recipes that can be found on the website. “Most of my goodie baking is made with rye,” added Brenda. “My kids love the chocolate chip cookies and brownies.”
According to Brenda, popularity varies depending on the region. “When we ship to the east, south, and west states, our most popular are buckwheat groats and flour. In the Midwest, I would say that hard red spring wheat edges out because it is used a lot for baking bread.”
Brenda’s Baking Tips
#1 This is purely a preference, but I use cane brown sugar and cane sugar because it is less refined than granulated sugar — it also gives a more caramelized flavor.
#2 I have discovered that bourbon vanilla adds a beautiful flavor when I bake.
#3 If you wish to make a double batch, I double the butter, sugars, rye flour, and egg. Then I increase the vanilla extract and baking powder to 1 1/2 tsp. You may up your salt to 1 tsp. or leave as-is. For the chocolate chips, I use 1 C. of each or 170g of each.
#4 I prefer to weigh out my ingredients versus measuring to make sure I get the exact amount needed for the recipe.
Brenda Chisholm’s Rye
Chocolate Chip Cookies
1/2 C. (115 g) Unsalted butter
1/2 Packed C. (110g) Brown sugar or cane brown sugar
1/2 C. (100g) Granulated sugar or cane sugar
1 Large egg
1 tsp. Vanilla extract (See notes)
1 1/2 C. (180g) Chisholm Family Trail Rye Flour
1 tsp. Baking powder
1/2 tsp. Kosher salt
6 Oz. (90g) Chopped dark chocolate or 1/2 chips
1/2 C. (90g) Milk chocolate chips
STEP 1
Heat oven to 375°. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper, set aside.
STEP 2
In a large bowl, mix together the butter and sugars. If you are using a mixer, you do not need to worry about your butter being at room temperature. Stir in the egg and vanilla extract until smooth. Add the flour, baking powder, and salt, and mix until thoroughly combined. Lastly, mix in the chocolate.
STEP 3
Portion the cookie dough into balls that are roughly 70g. You may roll with your hand or use a medium-sized melon scooper. Place on the prepared baking sheets. Press gently into a circle about 1 in. thick.
STEP 4
Bake cookies for 10-12 minutes. Upon removal from the oven, let cool on the cookie sheet before moving to your wire rack to cool completely.
Caring for Crops
If there’s one thing the Chisholms wish people knew about their life’s work, it’s the importance of taking care of the soil. “We are strong believers in cover crops. As soon as we’ve harvested a field, we go in right away and seed with a cover crop,” said Brenda. “This may be oats, rye, turnips, radishes, and clovers. We want to always keep a living root in the ground, so the microbiome keeps getting fed and keeps flourishing to maintain soil health. By using cover crops, we are armoring the soil to protect it from the elements, preserving our topsoil.
This way of farming provides healthier and more nutritious food because we are taking better care of the soil. By nurturing the soil, we are leaving the earth in better shape for the future.”
Shop Chisholm Trail Farm
For now, the family’s farm-fresh products are primarily available through their website, with shipping anywhere in the country. If you live in the Gary area, orders can be picked up straight from the farm. You can also find their bounty at local farmers’ markets throughout the year. Keep your eye out for Chisholm Trail Farm products, planting roots in select Midwest retail stores soon.
THE RESIDENCE AT VALLEY VIEW ESTATES
THOMSEN HOMES
by TRACY NICHOLSON photos by DAN FRANCIS PHOTOGRAPHY
Fresh from the BIA’s Fall Parade of Homes, we’re taking a Thomsen Homes tour of three beautiful abodes in Fargo’s newest premier community, The Residence at Valley View Estates. On our first stop, we introduce you to Rebecca Rydell, a beloved interior designer, mom, NDSU alum, and now, President of Thomsen Homes. Rebecca is no stranger to building beautiful spaces... or building momentum. With over two decades of blazing the trail, she brings equal parts vision and heart — shaping not just homes, but the future of Thomsen Homes.
MEET THE PRESIDENT
Rebecca Rydell’s May naming as Thomsen Homes’ new president was no surprise — she’s been a pacesetter in the construction industry for over 20 years, as a Director of Design and a skilled interior designer within both residential and commercial new construction and remodeling. Rebecca succeeds Niels Thomsen, who has since transitioned into a new role as President of BluPeak Group, the parent company of Thomsen Homes, founded in 2007. “Rebecca’s empathetic leadership, exceptional communication, and ability to empower those around her make her the ideal person to lead Thomsen Homes into the future,” said Chris Thomsen, Thomsen Homes Founder and BluPeak Group CEO.
As an NCIDQ-certified Interior Designer and 2006 NDSU alum, Rebecca has led teams and projects across North Dakota and Minnesota, with additional work spanning California, Oregon, Colorado, and Florida. In just four short years at Thomsen Homes, her leadership has been instrumental in refining the homebuilding process, streamlining operations, and enhancing the client and team experience.
Beyond the build, Rebecca gracefully balances professional and personal life, as a proud mom to Ruby and Henley and stepmom to Brady. “My husband, Alex, and I also co-own Hanson Runsvold Funeral Home, which keeps us connected to the community in a very meaningful way. Our life is full of kids’ activities, sports, and family time. Music is also a big part of our lives—whether it’s making our own, supporting Alex’s band, Poitin, or traveling to see favorite musicians. We also love spending time at Lake Metigoshe and traveling to see family and friends. Our faith and church community keep us grounded and uplifted through it all.”
Despite the fast pace of life, Rebecca slows down to volunteer and mentor, supporting community and emerging leaders through NDSU programs, NDID, Hope Lutheran Church, and BIO Girls. She has also been involved in the National Association of Home Builders, Rotary International, The Chamber, and the Council for Interior Design Qualification.
In a traditionally male-dominated industry, Rebecca has mastered the execution of projects with both precision and creativity. “I believe everything starts with a strong foundation — clear communication, detailed
processes, and aligned expectations. From there, we can build with confidence and even have fun along the way,” said Rydell. “Our commitment to a stress-free, joyful building experience will always remain the same. My goal is to create homes that balance function, beauty, and affordability, while also supporting our trade partners and team through solid framework behind the scenes.”
To Rebecca, experience isn’t the only thing that matters; it’s also the people who have inspired the journey. “I feel really fortunate. My father, Kevin, taught me the value of hard work through his over 50 years in plumbing and heating. My husband, Alex, has been a daily encourager and the reason I made the leap into Thomsen Homes in 2021,” said Rydell. “My mother, Merri Jo, inspired my love of design and creativity during the 30 years I had with her. Leaders like Chris and Niels Thomsen, Susan Ray-Degges, Shannon Simon, Erik Hatch, and Hari Panjini, as well as organizations like the Rotary, Carpet One, and the design/build community, have all shaped me. And perhaps most importantly, my clients have been some of my greatest teachers— pushing me to hold high standards, teaching me lessons along the way, and often becoming lifelong friends.”
Rebecca credits her rewarding career start to the Interior Design program at NDSU, which she says fueled her passion for construction, professionalism, and creating meaningful spaces. “The program challenged me to think critically, communicate effectively, and uphold a high standard of design,” added Rydell. “Without that foundation, I don’t think I’d be where I am today—it shaped not only my career but also how I approach leadership in this industry.”
“I feel incredibly honored and excited to step into this role,” said Rydell. “I’m mindful of the visibility of being a woman in construction— especially as president—and I see it as an opportunity to lead with authenticity, accountability, and care. My goal is to support our dedicated team members, strengthen relationships with our trade partners, and, most importantly, provide a positive, joyful homebuilding experience.”
THE RESIDENCE
Welcome to Fargo’s newest premier community, The Residence at Valley View Estates. Located in a highly sought-after south Fargo neighborhood, the development fuses refined architecture, elevated landscaping, and high-end finishes, and, thankfully, no special assessments. “Every home feels thoughtfully designed and truly upscale,” said Rydell. “What excites me most is the sense of connection this neighborhood offers — it’s centrally located and close to schools, shopping, and parks, yet it still feels like its own special place with a masterplanned design that includes walking paths and green spaces.”
“Centrally located land in Fargo is hard to come by for new construction, which is why we’ve master planned this rare piece for only 17 homes. With no specials, an HOA, and placement in the West Fargo School District, just blocks from Liberty and Independence, this is more than a neighborhood — it’s a once-only opportunity,” added Thomsen Homes’ Lauren Huff.
HOME #1 3606 DECORAH
WAY SOUTH, FARGO
Our first stop in The Residence is a Thomsen Homes 2570 SF Two-Story plan with a mainfloor primary, two-and-a-half baths, and three upper bedrooms. Here, the great room extends to 18 feet in a dramatic, double-volume design, with a fireplace and walnut slat wall that draws the eye to the upper bonus loft. The stunning kitchen showcases a custom slatted walnut range hood, Cambria quartz countertops and backsplash, artisanal lighting, and a fusion of Warm Stone-painted and stained alder cabinetry. At the heart of the city, this highend home delivers far more than a chef’s kitchen, walk-in pantry, office, and spa-style primary, offering a sod yard, landscaping, sprinkler system, and black stainless steel kitchen appliances all included. The home also features an oversized garage and unfinished basement ready for customization.
“I love the way spaces are being designed for flexibility,” added Rydell. “For example, a front office can easily become a guest bedroom or a creative space for kids. One of my favorite areas is what we call the “scullery”— a modern take on the mudroom. It’s a prep space off the kitchen that might include laundry, extra storage, or a prep sink. These spaces also tend to showcase more playful finishes—bold colors, fun tiles, or even wallpaper—while the rest of the home stays more neutral.”
“What excites me most is the sense of connection this neighborhood offers — it’s centrally located... yet it still feels like its own special place with a masterplanned design that includes walking paths and green spaces.”
Rebecca Rydell Thomsen Homes President
HOME #2 3612 DECORAH
WAY SOUTH, FARGO
Our second stop is Thomsen Homes’ fivebed, three-bath 1665 SF Rambler plan with a finished basement. Here, main-level living includes a primary suite, two bedrooms, and a full bath. The well-curated kitchen mixes Windfresh White perimeter cabinets and a darker, Griffin-painted square island, complete with quartz and laminate countertops, pantry storage, gold hardware, and an apron-front sink. For additional entertaining and guest space, the home’s beautiful lower level features two bedrooms, a full bath, storage, and a spacious family room designed with arched inset detailing, a second fireplace, and a custom quartz wet bar with a wine fridge and floating shelves.
HOME #3 3618
DECORAH WAY SOUTH, FARGO
Our final stop is a 2191 SF Two-Story plan, offering four upper bedrooms, two-and-a-half baths, an upper laundry, and an unfinished basement. Floor to ceiling, this home’s kitchen is high-contrast drama, with upper chestnutstained alder cabinets and lower slate-stained cabinetry. The home also features a large island, quartz countertops, a walk-in pantry, an office, and a cozy breakfast nook. A standout feature of this home is the living room’s dark olive focal wall with shiplap and charcoal brick accents surrounding a 36” gas fireplace. Another highlight is the upper-level primary suite and spa-style bath, including a striking walnut wood slate and tile shower design.
JOYFUL BUILDING
To find out what it takes to build a home, Jessica Metcalf, Director of Sales and Marketing, explained the Thomsen Homes process. “The Joyful Building Experience is about walking alongside our clients from the very beginning. Through a clear, step-by-step approach—from consultation to aftercare support—we aim to make the building process transparent, personal, and exciting. As part of that journey, homeowners explore floor plans and lots, collaborate in our Design Studio, and work with our team to personalize finishes that reflect their style and lifestyle.” The typical build takes approximately six months, with extensive customization options available. Homes generally start in the $300K–$700K range, depending on the style of home and features.
According to Rydell, the Joyful Building Experience is all about making the process clear, personal, and enjoyable, with open communication and support at every stage. “More than just building houses, we want clients to feel confident, cared for, and excited as their vision becomes a home.”
“Homebuilding is such a meaningful profession — it’s often the biggest investment a family makes and the place where so much of life happens,” added Rydell. “To be part of creating that is truly special. Not long ago, my daughter asked me why I chose this career, and I told her, I get to design the spaces where families build their memories. What could be more rewarding than that?”
FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT: Thomsen Homes
3280 Veterans Blvd, Suite 120 | Fargo 701.501.8598 salesales@thomsenhomesllc.com thomsenhomesllc.com
FB: Thomsen Homes LLC. Insta: thomsenhomesllc
On this tour, all three homes were designed by Thomsen Homes’ Pylar Godfrey, Design Specialist, NCIDQ, and Kalleen Kvien, Design Specialist.
Kalleen Kvien Pylar Godfrey
FARGO’S PREMIUM SHOPPING DESTINATION
the
AMES
2.0
KRUEGER CONSTRUCTION
Featured on the BIA’s Fall Parade of Homes, Krueger Construction’s new model home, the James 2.0, does not disappoint. This English Tudor two-story in West Fargo’s Rivers Bend neighborhood checks all the boxes, with four bedrooms, two-and-a-half baths, a loft, a sunroom, custom wallcoverings, Venetian plaster, overmortared stone, and elegant Tudor archways. Here, Kimberly Krueger-Tehan, her husband Jimmy Tehan, and her brother Corey Krueger opened every door for a behind-the-scenes tour, from its 3,071 square feet of finished space above to its 1,487 square feet below. We loved the original James model, but James 2.0.... it’s nextlevel comfort and old-world craftsmanship.
by TRACY NICHOLSON photos by DAN FRANCIS PHOTOGRAPHY
From Their Family to Yours
Just like all Krueger homes, the James 2.0 is rooted in family tradition. For 41 years, the Kruegers have been building the American dream, with each home named in honor of their three children, Kimberly, Kristi, and Corey, as well as grandchildren and spouses, with several contributing their talents to the family business. It’s a daily reminder that what they do is not just important to their family, but also the families that will one day build their lives in the homes they build.
“Every year when we design models, we want them to be unique and different from what we’ve built in years past. The James 2.0 is considered more of a transitional Tudor,” explained Kimberly Krueger-Tehan. “We put a lot of thought into incorporating the unique arch design and beams that resemble exposed trusses — both are signature elements in a Tudor-style home. The Tudor arch design is carried from the exterior to the front entry and both openings flanking the kitchen.”
This home is named after Jimmy (James) Tehan, Kimberly’s husband and Krueger Construction’s general manager. He designed the original James model, then worked with Kimberly to modify the new model. “We’ve built the James model a few times, starting about six years ago, but for the 2.0 version, we made some modifications primarily on the main floor,” explained Jimmy Tehan. “This new design is based on feedback we’ve gathered from homeowners. It’s just more aligned with what families are looking for now versus years ago.”
Artisanal Arrival
Within the main foyer of the James 2.0, guests arrive at a Tudor arch framing custom builtins and bench seating surrounded by vertical shiplap that sets the tone for a warm, neutral, and monochromatic feel. The home’s warmth flows into the adjacent private office, introducing a Venetian plaster wall finish accented by a repurposed canvas painted by Kimberly and her sister, Kristi Krueger Roscoe.
From Left: Corey Krueger, Kimberly Krueger-Tehan, Jimmy Tehan
English Tudor Taste
In the bespoke chef’s kitchen, the home’s English Tudor style translates to classic glass grid features, over-mortared stone, and warm undertones, with a more traditional flair, including a fusion of maple and custompainted cabinetry by Wendt Custom Cabinets. Here, Kimberly coordinated the elegance of traditional nickel finishes with artisanal lighting that highlights the home’s 12-foot quartz island, custom hood, and island ends with furniture-style legs, drawers, and open shelving. Here, cabinets run floor to ceiling, and the four-foot depth of the island accommodates storage from every angle. For subtle contrast, Kimberly chose a mist-gray neutral in Accessible Beige for the painted cabinets and a rich, chocolate stain for the island.
Fireside Gathering
The well-appointed great room in the James 2.0 model features nine-foot ceilings that extend to a deeper tray, showcasing seven distinctive maple beams made by Wendt Custom Cabinets. Beyond the beams, the caststone fireplace mantel is the true anchor of the room’s immersive, monochromatic design, with custom built-ins and a Venetian plaster wall finish.
Proper Pantry
Just off the kitchen is a glass-grid pocket door that opens to a walk-in pantry with floating maple shelves, quartz countertops, and painted cabinetry in Accessible Beige.
“There’s nothing in this house that is a true white,” said Kimberly Krueger-Tehan. “We went with warmer windows, then pulled that into the millwork throughout the home and the kitchen, including the custom hood. We didn’t want to lose focus on the more intricate details, like the stone backsplash, the island legs, and the light fixtures, so the curvature of the custom hood is designed to be streamlined.”
Refined Dining
Overlooking the backyard, the formal dining room continues the home’s transitional design and white oak laminate flooring with a more refined take on vintage farmhouse elements. This oversized chandelier is five feet in diameter, with an antiqued fusion of both gold and nickel finishes. “I really liked the scale of this fixture, it’s oversized, yet delicate, and doesn’t feel too heavy for the space,” said Kimberly Krueger-Tehan.
Brighter Days
Through a Tudor arch, just beyond the kitchen and dining room, is a main-floor sunroom positioned to embrace natural light and views, with direct patio door access to the backyard. This room is designed to easily transition into a second office, guest room, or play area.
Elevated Living
In this revised two-story floorplan, access to the upstairs is discreet yet convenient, placing the stairwell out of sight between the kitchen and sunroom. The first stop at the top is a cozy loft, which leads to a primary suite, laundry room, three bedrooms, and a full guest bath. Here, the floorplan flows seamlessly, with both a primary suite and hallway entry to the laundry area. The guest bath is also designed for ease of use, with a separated dual vanity space and a closed-off toilet and shower room.
Suite Dreams
In the upper primary suite, Kimberly’s design includes expansive bedside windows and a tray ceiling accented with an elegant twotiered chandelier from Valley Lights.
“There are so many details to love in the primary. The nod to the home’s Tudor design in the curvature of the quartz vanity backsplash—matching the same design detail on the polished nickel framed mirror—is one of my favorites,” said Kimberly Krueger-Tehan.
This primary also features a private doorway connecting the primary bath to the shared laundry room. “A number of our plans have the laundry connected to the primary suite, and we always give our customers the option to close it off, but nobody has ever asked us to do that,” she added. “I think once you live with that convenience, you’ll never go back.”
Designer Drop Zone
Arriving from the oversized and heated three-stall garage is charming powder room and discreet designer drop zone, with floor-to-ceiling storage and custom paneling that extends to each side of the built-ins. While the cabinetry, shiplap paneling, and wall colors are consistent with the home’s warm neutrals, Kimberly chose a more dynamic gray-blue tone for all of the home’s exterior doors.
Mastering the Plan
“We’ve had a lot of great feedback on this home in both the floorplan flow, as well as the finish selections. People love the sunroom and private office on the main floor, and also the loft space upstairs, offering lots of flexibility for modern-day families. The fireplace finishes and beams in the living room receive so many compliments, and the kitchen’s stone backsplash, custom hood, and furniture-style oversized island are fan favorites,” said Corey Krueger, vice president of Krueger Construction.
Adding even more space, the lower level is already plumbed and laid out for the future addition of another full bath, two bedrooms, a storage room, a family room, game space, and a wet bar. “Every year, we roll out a few new model homes to showcase quality of construction and design principles, but most of the work we do is in completely custom home building. Our in-house drafter, Katie, holds a masters degree in Architecture, and we work closely with her to create fresh home designs that serve our customers well,” explained Kimberly KruegerTehan.
Emerging Design
With a new year on the horizon, Kimberly explained the design elements that are quickly evolving and adapting to a warmer northern climate. “From a design standpoint of what’s newer to our market, we’re actually seeing a lot of those elements in this home, like the Venetian plaster, cast-stone fireplace, and dryvit finishes. We’re also seeing much warmer whites, both interior and exterior, so a lot less of the high-contrast black and white. We haven’t done a white kitchen in about a year, but we’re still doing really light, warmer, and creamier colors.”
“We occasionally dabble in truly modern design and have a few floorplans that lend themselves to mid-century elevations, but I think most of the people we work with come to us for traditional and transitional homes,” added Kimberly Krueger-Tehan. “They are looking for a truly custom floor plan that is tailored more to their family’s lifestyle than trends — building a meaningful home for their family is what inspires my family and our team.”
The Center for Plastic Surgery & Medspa may specialize in outer aesthetics, but our interest is focused inward, to the tranquil beauty of its newly completed 9,300-square-foot South Fargo practice. Here, Dr. Nicholas and Alissa Adams’ architectural endeavor was led with surgical precision, a team effort flawlessly executed by Enclave, Strom Architecture, and Brandi Youngmark Interior Design. In a place designed to catalyze confidence, this team’s pursuit of perfection comes naturally.
by TRACY NICHOLSON
architectural photography by DAN FRANCIS PHOTOGRAPHY portraits by BRITTA THE PHOTOGRAPHER clinical images by AD SHARK MARKETING & KARISA SHUCK
When board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Nicholas Adams, MD, returned to North Dakota in 2020, his vision for the Center for Plastic Surgery (CFPS) quickly became a reality. He’s come a long way from his family’s Grand Forks farm to make it happen, embarking on an academic journey that began with a B.S. and M.D. at UND’s School of Medicine. After graduating with Alpha Omega Alpha honors, Dr. Adams completed the prestigious integrated plastic surgery residency at Michigan State University, where he trained with world-renowned faculty specializing in aesthetic and reconstructive surgery. Following plastic surgery residency, Dr. Adams completed the Hand, Upper Extremity, and Microsurgery Fellowship at the University of Arizona in Phoenix, further refining his surgical technique.
Now married for 12 years, Dr. Nicholas and Alissa Adams have planted deep roots in Fargo, raising their two daughters while growing their practice together. Their ambitions are shared yet distinct, with Alissa balancing dual leadership roles as Chief Strategy Officer at CFPS and Chief Operating Officer at West Acres Development. Over the
past decade, she has overseen a transformation of West Acres Mall while also guiding CFPS’s facility design and medspa expansion.
Moving the practice from a 2,500-square-foot clinic to a much larger, undeveloped site in South Fargo, the Adamses had a blank slate to re-envision the future of CFPS, which had grown from five employees to 20 in just five years. While Enclave’s team led the development and construction, Strom Architecture helped them design a state-of-the-art facility that thoughtfully reflected the full scope of services across two distinct wings: one dedicated to plastic surgery, and the other to nonsurgical and minimally invasive aesthetic treatments.
“We were fortunate to be part of this project, where our role focused on shaping the overall architectural vision and layout,” said Jackson Strom, Principal Architect & Founder of Strom Architecture. “Our design emphasized natural light, intuitive flow, and patient-centered functionality. Working closely with the interiors team, we laid the architectural groundwork through spatial planning and flow that set the stage for a cohesive design.”
Once plans were developed last summer, the Adamses recruited Brandi Youngmark to help refine the space, tailor its function, and select finishes. “Beyond her design work, Brandi was very helpful throughout this entire process. She was in our old place measuring drawers, meeting with every team member, and making sure that everything fit to a tee,” said Alissa Adams. “Her level of detail is next-level.”
a curated arrival Inside CFPS, schedule a visit, stay for the vibe. Here, arrival feels like a five-star spa experience, where a wait is worth savoring. Clean architectural lines, polished concrete, and an extraordinary granite reception area set the tone for quiet calm and sophistication, while two inviting lounges offer spaces to settle in. The atmosphere is layered with organic materials, soft daylight, vibrant local art, and fresh floral. A gentle candlelit blend of amber, cardamom, plum, sea salt, and citrus lingers in the air, wrapping guests in a warm, restorative welcome.
With the goal of giving guests and employees a unique experience, Alissa worked with Kale McCollum of downtown Fargo’s Botanical Brothers. He brought a trailer of plants, toured the space, and helped her choose the clinic’s unique collection. Further enhancing the arrival experience, she partnered with Love Always Floral to schedule weekly deliveries of fresh floral arrangements.
To ensure CFPS’s space embodied the vision of its more holistic practice, Alissa worked hand-in-hand with both Strom Architecture and Brandi Youngmark Interior Design. Brandi had first worked with the couple on the build and design of their Fargo home five years ago, so she was familiar with their sophisticated, art-centric style. “When Alissa reached out again for the new CFPS, I just
fell in love with project,” said Youngmark. “Alissa has a great eye for design, so we meshed really well, and we all worked together as a team. Her vision for a more organic, warm, and cozy space was already well-defined, so we incorporated a lot of natural materials and different textures. Typically, when you come into any medical facility, you’d see a very stark white and institutional setting, but here, we wanted to
merge the spa and medical sides in a really warm environment — a place where people would feel more at home.”
As a dramatic backdrop, Brandi and Alissa chose extraordinary Taj Mahal Quartzite slabs to flank both sides of the curved Corian reception desk. “Because these slabs are so wide, they were really hard to find, especially in two sister slabs,” said Youngmark.
“It was pretty awesome to find them at Stone Holding, so we snagged them and held onto them for a long time. Northern Stone did a beautiful job of installing them. We also accented both slabs with two soft gold sconces on natural alabaster glass bases — adding to the layering of different natural stones, including a more medicalgrade quartz for the practice’s countertops.”
abstract expression
Alissa is drawn to creativity and tries to incorporate it in everything she does. She grew up in a family of artists, including her mother, Carol Schlossman, and her aunt, Marjorie Schlossman. Carol’s work is featured throughout the practice, with original pieces in the exam rooms and several in the reception area. To further curate the collection, Alissa and Dr. Adams visited Marjorie’s downtown studio, selecting a series of vibrant abstracts, including the large canvas behind the lounge sofa and its companion piece that hangs behind the reception desk.
“We also carried over a triptych by Marjorie, as well as additional works in the hallway and glassed waiting area,” said Alissa Adams. “We’re grateful to have artists within our family and it is really special to be able to share it with others.” Rounding out the practice’s collection, with plans to continue expanding, Alissa incorporated a large-scale abstract by local artist Kate Baldock, several portraits by Tia Permenter, and watercolors by her sister, Emily Elbom.
framing the view
Underfoot, Brandi and Alissa chose a simple, lowmaintenance polished concrete that enables the more prominent architectural details above to remain in the spotlight. “We were focused on elevating the eye upward to the lighter-stained natural Douglas Fir in a tongue-and-groove design that exudes warmth and texture,” explained Youngmark. “I also love that we have two lounge waiting areas, one that is more private, and the other more open.” Anchoring the main space, a dramatic drop chandelier adds soft, sweeping movement, illuminating the architectural expanse from reception to ceiling.
Other signature elements of the design are the perimeter’s repeated arches, built-in casework, inset lighting, and darker-stained wood and shelving that mimic the depth of natural walnut. Youngmark’s guidance helped balance the design’s masculine and feminine qualities, understanding that CFPS serves both men and women. “We used Accessible Beige paint and stone-textured wall coverings, warmer stains, black accents, and a variety of textures that resonate with both, including tweed upholstery, velvet, natural wood, and stone,” added Youngmark.
“This space is planned very intentionally, and our team is excited about it,” said Dr. Adams. “It’s been nice, and I think one
“The project was an exciting opportunity to reimagine a clinical environment as a space that feels modern, timeless, and welcoming.”
Jackson Strom, AIA Principal Architect & Founder Strom Architecture
of the biggest things, aside from having more space, is the natural light. It brightens the whole day, and I think it just makes everybody happier.” As CFPS’s marketing director, Karisa Shuck shared, “We were truly at capacity in our old space, so it’s been refreshing to have this space that we’re able to grow into and offer a new, unique, and expanded experience for our guests. Coming to work here is the best — the natural light, the energy, the space... it’s amazing.”
“People pick up on the energy of environments, so if our team and guests are in a space that is well-lit, beautifully decorated, and feels more inviting, they carry that energy with them throughout their day,” added Alissa Adams.
collaborative care Dr. Adam’s team takes a holistic approach that helps guests achieve their desired goal through the smallest amount of surgery or the least invasive techniques, which requires collaboration and access to several specialized services. “Welcoming and collaborative spaces were really important to us. It was very tight in our previous space, but it created a very close-knit team,” said Alissa Adams. “We really wanted to carry that over, providing spaces that promote team collaboration throughout the day, without isolation between the medspa and plastic surgery wings.”
In the CFPS’s treatment and consultation rooms, Brandi worked closely with Dr. Adams and the team to map out the new facility by first dissecting the current space and needs, then defining what was missing, not just for efficiency, but also for a variety of desk, technology, and equipment needs. The list was long, as CFPS specializes in advanced surgical procedures for face, body, and breast, along with an extensive list of personalized medspa treatments. While CFPS needed to have a plastic surgery wing for their team and consultations, Dr. Adams conducts his procedures at the Center for Special Surgery, which ensures his team has a full operating room suite.
“We really made sure every office and every clinician had what they needed at their fingertips, including solutions for desks, medical disposal, and refrigeration,” added Youngmark. “We also had to look at the way Dr. Adams worked in his space, including the type of drawers, inventory of drawers, and specific heights for optimal efficiency. Keeping in mind ease of maintenance and antimicrobial materials, we chose laminated and commercial-grade millwork that can be easily wiped down. “
With CFPS on the grow, Strom Architecture’s Grant Willert made sure the new facility’s floorplan could easily expand into the future, further accommodating aesthetic services in the west wing, surgical services in the east wing, and employee services along the north corridor, with a break room, mother’s room, and large conference room. While preserving space for growth, the facility also preserves the dignity of all patients by including a more discreet back entrance and private waiting rooms. “They thought about every need of their
patients, really making them feel at home here; they’ve done a really phenomenal job of caring for their patients and their team,” added Youngmark.
“The project was an exciting opportunity to reimagine a clinical environment as a space that feels modern, timeless, and welcoming,” said Strom. “The result is a facility that elevates the patient experience while supporting the day-to-day needs of the practice, reflecting the shared commitment of the entire project team.”
earthen exterior
On the exterior, the team took its design beyond typical Midwest materials, instead sourcing a unique natural stone inspired by southern earthen textures and stone-clad architecture. Before returning to Fargo, the Adamses spent a year living in Arizona, carrying home some of the region’s most iconic design elements. “They wanted that unmortared aesthetic, so each piece was precisely cut and pieced together like a puzzle, with a special overspreading of mortar on the back side to withstand this climate,” explained Youngmark. “We also used black accents and elm wood accents for contrast, but staying away from natural wood, which would be difficult to maintain in this region. Additionally, the dryvit gives the building a really clean design — creating a memorable arrival unlike anywhere else in Fargo.”
the pursuit of perfection
As Alissa noted, this process was a labor of love; a project equally dedicated to their team and guests. “We wanted to make sure they’re coming to a space they deserve,” she said. “The aesthetic of this is not like what you’d normally see in Fargo, but it still has that warm Midwest hospitality.” According to Brandi, in this team, everyone brought their A-game for a flawless execution. “This was a great team and one of the most streamlined projects I have worked on — from Alissa’s expertise and the CFPS team’s feedback throughout the process, to Enclave’s execution and Strom’s architecture team,” said Youngmark.
Jackson Strom, AIA Principal Architect & Founder Strom Architecture
Brandi Youngmark Principal Designer Brandi Youngmark Interior Design
Jeremy Cossitt Director of Construction Enclave
“There was a consistent theme throughout design and construction — no detail is too small for care and attention,” added Enclave’s Jeremy Cossitt. “It was clear that Dr. Adams and Alissa were approaching this build with the same unfaltering dedication to excellence that they give their patients. Their attention, care, and pursuit of excellence are a testament to their values as business owners and the level of service they give their patients.
This project is unique, and it’s going to set a benchmark for many others around town.”
“From day one, we have put a lot of energy and effort into curating the guest experience, making sure people feel comfortable and welcome, as well as educated and heard,” added Dr. Adams. “This new clinic doesn’t just continue what we were already doing; it amplifies it, allowing us to visit with and help more members of our community.”
DESIGN DETAILS:
Developer & Contractor: Enclave
Architect: Strom Architecture
Interior Design: Brandi Youngmark Interior Design
Artwork: Carol Schlossman, Marjorie Schlossman, Kate Baldock
Quartzite, Granite & Countertop Install: Northern Stone
Furniture: InterOffice
Granite Slabs & Quartz Countertop Source: Stone Holding Co.
Lighting: Valley Lights
Polished Concrete Flooring: Quality Coatings
Front Desk & Woodwork/Cabinetry: Waterworth’s Woodshop
Fresh Floral Arrangements: Love Always Floral
Plants: Botanical Brothers
Exterior Stone: Sonoma TerraForm, Blocks to Rocks
Flooring: STC Flooring
Additional subcontractors included: Kowalski Brothers Home Improvement, Aqua Lawn & Landscape, JT Lawn Services, Fargo Framing, Fargo Steel Fabrication, Blocks to Rocks Concrete, Herzog Roofing, Meland Lumber Co, Red River Glazing, Miller & Sons Drywall, Precision Plumbing & Heating, FM Electric, All Fab Railings & Metalworks, Agassiz Underground, Advanced Striping, Construction Supply, Cullen Insulation, D&M Industries, Denali Drywall, Dakota Fence, Dirt Dynamics, DM Acoustics, Sandman Structural Engineers, Sticky Construction, Summit Sitework, Systems Technology, The Cleaning Pros, Timber Ridge Exteriors, Nova Fire Protection
Gallery 4 at 50 A COLLECTIVE CELEBRATION
At 50 years young, Gallery 4 is in its prime — shining even brighter than the day it was born in 1975. As Fargo’s oldest art co-op gallery—and the nation’s oldest consecutively-running artist cooperative— this crafty collective has mastered the art of community impact and creative evolution. To mark the milestone, we toured the gallery, browsed the Made in Fargo shop, and met the makers themselves— from one of the founding visionaries to beloved veterans and emerging artists— those coloring the next 50 years of art, community, and connection.
by TRACY NICHOLSON photos by STUDIO FRESHLY + DENNIS KRULL, 5FOOT20
ART & IMPACT
Half a century is a long time to do anything, but for downtown Fargo’s Gallery 4, time flies when you’re having fun building a community of creative minds. Gallery 4 is a local cooperative owned and operated by its member artists, all sharing diverse experiences, backgrounds, and mediums. Here, Premier artist members do more than create; they also help manage the co-op’s success by taking turns working in the gallery, welcoming patrons, mentoring Supporting members, and inviting budding artists into a growing community.
DESIGN LOUNGE
While the co-op may have started with 12, the gallery now boasts the work of over 50 artists. The gallery’s 17 Premier artists include Dennis Krull, Kathy Luther, Anna Frissell, Connie Riedman, William Damon, Marcy Dronen, Judi Koehmstedt, Dionna Martel, Mark Holter, Carol Rogne, Terry Chavez, Scott Seiler, Anna Johnson, Laura Youngbird, Ken Omundson, Crystal Thorson, and Nancy Baier. Go ahead and spread the word, “One of the F-M’s best well-kept secrets” is officially out, just in time to celebrate the gallery’s golden era.
FOUNDING A CREATIVE COLLECTIVE
In 1975, Gallery 4 opened its doors on the fourth floor of DeLendrecie’s department store on Main Avenue in Fargo, now known as Block Six; a building listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Throughout the years, the cooperative relocated several more times before settling into its Roberts Street storefront six years ago, marking 15 years in downtown.
Today, the co-op gallery is guided by a wellestablished artist-led team, including president Scott Seiler, vice president Dennis Krull, secretary Nancy Baier, and accountant Carol Rogne.
Gathering to celebrate the gallery, we had the honor of meeting one of its founding members, Jackie (Jacqueline) J. Anderson, who spent 18 years helping build the co-op from a blank canvas into a vibrant masterpiece. Jackie was asked to join the co-op’s first meeting after another artist noticed her senior show at Minnesota State University Moorhead (MSUM). At that time, she was the youngest of 12 artists in the living room meeting, including artists Dean Bowman, Lula Brown, Kay Cann, Betty Corwin, Bea Cummings, Joyce Eidbo, Lois Emerson, John Holland, Dennis Holm, Kitten O’Day, and Robert Walton.
Jackie’s artistic ambitions began in childhood, and by 19, she had a successful career with Northwestern Bell Telephone Company as a lead artist for the Yellow Pages’ advertisements. After transitioning to an advertising agency, her ultimate passion to learn and teach prevailed. Then, a married mom of two, Jackie followed her dreams to Moorhead State to become an art teacher. Along with her founding role in the gallery, Jackie would go on to devote 27 years to her students as an art teacher at Ben Franklin Middle School and North Fargo High School.
Although she is no longer an official gallery member, Jackie is forever a beloved mentor and artist, greatly contributing to a legacy of art education, inspiration, and collaboration. Jackie credits the depth of her education to
her childhood art classes at Moorhead Public Schools and Moorhead State University (MSUM), where she honed her skills in nearly every medium, from welding and pottery to printmaking, painting, watercolor, and drawing.
Recently, she gathered her works from various locations and her own archives to unveil a special showcase in Gallery 4, a “Through the Years” timeline of sculptures and dry and wet 2D media, including pencil, pastel, acrylic, and watercolor. “I haven’t quit being an artist,” added Anderson. “It took me until I was 70 years old to decide I could call myself an artist.”
Tour Gallery 4
DOWNTOWN VISITOR CENTER
Today, Gallery 4 is far more than a home for art — now a destination at the heart of downtown, where local enthusiasts, shoppers, artists, and downtown tourists gather, create, and connect. In fact, the Fargo-Moorhead Convention and Visitors Bureau has made Gallery 4 its exclusive Downtown Visitor Center. Within the gallery is a generous station of information and maps that guide guests to local art, dining, hospitality, and entertainment.
MADE IN FARGO
Beyond the Downtown Visitor Center is Gallery 4’s Made in Fargo gift shop. This small but mighty storefront includes a wealth of one-ofa-kind art gifts and souvenirs created by local artists from Fargo-Moorhead, as well as across North Dakota and Minnesota.
From pocket-sized Bison art to historical postcard prints, handcrafted jewelry, ceramic magnets, Fargo totes, graphic clothing, and greeting cards, this maker’s shop has original ideas made for everyone. Some of the more popular items in the gallery’s gift shop are the locally-made postcards, pottery, and smaller original prints and encaustic works.
THE GALLERY
Just inside the entrance of Gallery 4 are several collections on display from the co-op’s Premier artists. Further inside, the gallery is sectioned into designated areas for both Supporting artists and pop-up installations.
Kathy Luther, a clay tile mosaic and ceramic artist, joined the cooperative in 1988, making her the longest-running member. Similar to Jackie, Kathy is an MSUM alum and spent 25 years as an art teacher at Catholic Schools. “To me, this has been perfect,” said Luther. “Unlike most galleries, you can do what you want, create what you want, and have your own space. You get your own customers, and you’re not at the whim of a curator’s taste. I love this gallery because there is so much variety, which is what makes it really special. Also, every month we have a different theme now, so it encourages us to do something new and see how everyone else interprets the theme.” Surprisingly, in her 37-year membership, Kathy has never seen anyone copy another artist’s work.
Elizabeth Rockstad, a glass mosaic artist from Ada, MN, joined the cooperative as a Supporting artist in 2023. Supporting artists are given a space to show their work, yet they are not required to take a turn working at the gallery. Another teacher of K-12 art for 16 years, she has since opened her own art studio, Studio 4:13, where she conducts school residencies, community projects, and teaches mosaic workshops. Now a member of Gallery 4, Elizabeth said, “I’ve been very happy here. They are wonderful about including me in all the events and things they do. I’ve felt very welcome, and it’s been great exposure.”
Throughout the gallery and gift shop, you’ll also find the 30-year photography, encaustic art, jewelry, and alphabetory collection of Moorhead’s Dennis Krull of 5foot20 Design Studio — another MSUM alum. Dennis joined the co-op as a photographer 15 years ago and has continually expanded his field of knowledge. Today, he is the vice president of Gallery 4, contributing an eclectic collection that unites his talents in graphic design, photography, and encaustic.
Embracing one of the oldest Greek techniques, Dennis embarks on a process of melting and fusing layers of beeswax and varnish. He uses only natural beeswax and dammar resin (crystallized tree sap), sometimes incorporating pigments or left alone for transparency and adhesive qualities. “I was just looking for a way to enhance my photography and get a different feel, so I took a class in the cities and started experimenting,” explained Krull. “I do both 2D and 3D; it’s a lot of taking away and adding. I want my work to provoke a feeling; it should inspire or trigger something deep within the observer.”
Donna Chalimonczyk, a retired physician and politician, was a frequent visitor to the gallery for several years before joining the cooperative three years ago. She hadn’t truly delved into art until she retired to the lake, where she was invited to join an art club and learn watercolor from a visiting artist. Today, she shares her passion for paint, watercolor, acrylic, and pen & ink cards on the walls of Gallery 4. “It’s a really good networking place to meet other people who are enjoying and doing the same thing, but in all different styles,” said Chalimonczyk. “I love coming here and having that encouragement from other artists.”
Interested in the gallery’s extraordinary jewelry? Check out the work of Barnesville, MN’s Crystal Thorson, a retired K-12 art teacher and Moorhead State alum. Her artisan jewelry and wearable art integrate both found and repurposed materials, reimagining the role of vintage beads and charms, clock faces, porcelain, Sculpey, feathers, leather, trinkets, and resin. Crystal’s more recent line of jewelry is bold, beautiful, and heavy metal, including pewter casting, copper enameling, and a variety of other metals under the name “Metal Shop Rogue.”
Gracing the gallery, you’ll also find the work of Anna Frissell, a Fargo native and UND School of Law alum. She’s one of the gallery’s newest Premier members, contributing a stunning photography collection that captures the wild side of the Midwest, from Western North Dakota’s feral horses and bison to native birds and prairie botanicals.
Shopping for the holidays? For smaller items, the gallery’s Made in Fargo gift shop, jewelry displays, and backroom galleries are an excellent choice for original, handmade, and affordable pieces. For larger gifts of art, the gallery recommends gift cards, offering a more personalized experience that allows the recipient to browse, meet the artists, and choose what speaks to them.
JOIN GALLERY 4
If you’re interested in becoming a member or just joining the fun, head to the Gallery 4 website and start your online application. Here, artists can choose from participation in a monthly pop-up gallery, artist-in-residence, or three levels of membership. All new members are admitted through a juried process led by Gallery 4’s appointed leadership, considering both quality of work and media, ensuring a diverse collection of talent.
Premier memberships are $100 per month and include dedicated exhibit space in the main gallery, space on the gallery’s website, and social media posts to share your talent with a larger audience. Supporting artist memberships have two tiers, ranging from $120 per year to $240 per year, including space in the co-op’s Matilda Roberts Gallery, which is a dedicated gallery for new, emerging, and professional artists. Here, supporting artists can display 10 to 15 small artworks and sell them via the gallery’s consignment program. This membership additionally offers support from seasoned art professionals and no-fee invitations to special exhibits.
Although the co-op is continually evolving, members have always had both individual and shared spaces throughout the gallery, with opportunities to do group and personal shows. Sometimes the show goes on the road, setting up art exhibits in local health centers like Sanford and Essentia. Additionally, once a year, the gallery travels even further to do an art swap with another co-op in Bismarck.
Opening the doors to encourage new perspectives are Gallery 4’s pop-up shops and artist-in-residence program, offering emerging talent a chance to create and exhibit without the full membership commitment. For $150 rental fee, guest artists can reserve a 28-day
pop-up gallery. Artist-in-residence programs typically run one or three months.
“Come in and check out Gallery 4. We’d love to get new people in the door,” added Krull. “We’ve had people from all over the world stop in, and they’re always surprised — they just don’t expect that caliber of art to be made in the Midwest. Also, over the last few years, we’ve been really trying to reach people who have lived in the area their whole lives but have never heard of Gallery 4.”
“Whenever anyone mentions Gallery 4, I am so proud to say I’m one of the original founders, and proud that it has kept going like it has — with all the hard work, wonderful artists, and solidness of the organization,” said Anderson. “This is an organization that won’t fall apart.”
“Just come in and see the eye candy,” added Anderson. She assured us this gallery won’t push anyone to buy; guests are always welcome to wander, enjoy the view, and find inspiration that speaks to the soul. As Gallery 4 members say, “Admission is free,” because art is for everyone.
“I love coming here and having that encouragement from other artists.”
