“Beauty and function should not be mutually exclusive.”

This philosophy has permeated Elden’s current and past pursuits as an architect, a stained glass artist, and a goldsmith.
 
Every element of a building warrants consideration, and every element not considered may result in a missed opportunity. Elden believes that helping clients fully realize the potential for function, expression, continuity, order and beauty, in each and every one of a building’s elements, is the most enjoyable aspect of the design process.
 
Elden’s architectural background includes a keen interest in historic style and precedent, positioning him well for adaptive reuse and historically appropriate remodel projects. His appreciation for a broad range of styles, including Art Nouveau, Gothic, Mid-century Modern, Regional Vernacular and Industrial architecture informs his ability to work within a wide range of aesthetic parameters, never forcing a preconceived notion of how things should look.
 
Building on this background, his more recent areas of interest and study include highly energy efficient construction, building science, and passive and active solar design coupled with alternative mechanical solutions. Blending this knowledge with his aesthetic sensibilities, Elden strives to work with clients to arrive at affordable, sensible, beautiful, and functional solutions for their homes and businesses.
 
When he is not in the office or working on the farm, Elden’s energy is spent on his many hobbies and interests which include hiking, arcane and distinct automobiles (or just about anything with wheels), kinetic art, drumming, electronic music, gardening, and generally tinkering with anything mechanical.

Education and Licensure

• Bachelor of Architecture,North Dakota State University (NDSU)
• Bachelor of Science, NDSU
• Art Minor, NDSU
• Registered Architect in Minnesota

Experience and Affiliations

• Co-owner, Stone’s Throw Farm, Wrenshall, MN
• Previous small business owner
• Member Stained Glass Association of America
•  Has traveled to many of the contiguous 48 states, Alaska, numerous European countries, and throughout Japan

Highlights

• Gooch Residence, Echo Lake MN, HERS rating of zero, 2011
• Winner -AIA Minnesota Garden Shed Design Competition – 2003