Why Build Your Custom Lake Home on Lake Minnetonka
If you know Minnesota real estate, you know Lake Minnetonka isn’t just a place — it’s a brand. The water, the history, the views — there’s nowhere else like it in the state. At Mark D. Williams Custom Homes, we’ve been building and remodeling homes on Lake Minnetonka since 2008 — and it’s still one of the most exciting, rewarding parts of what we do!
Why Lake Minnetonka?
More than a century ago, this is the prime location where Minneapolis’ elite built summer cabins. Those early properties created quirky, narrow lots that give the area a distinctive character. As the western suburbs grew in affluence, Lake Minnetonka evolved — and today, it’s home to some of the most architecturally ambitious, design-forward homes in the state.
With over 100 miles of shoreline and a network of interconnected bays and inlets, this lake has become known for both luxury living and Minnesota history.
And resale? A well-designed lake home is one of the most desirable assets in Minnesota real estate. It’s the kind of prime location property that draws attention — not just now, but for generations to come.
Check out this blog to see a completed lake home project!
Our Story
Our first major remodel was on Lake Minnetonka in 2008. That client later trusted us with a full new-build. That project lit a spark, and we’ve been building on the lake ever since.
Growing up near the water, there’s something deeply personal for me about creating spaces where other families will make their lake memories — weekends on the water, evenings by the fire, 4th of July fireworks, and holidays with family gathered around!
What to Know Before You Build Your Lake Home
Building on Lake Minnetonka is a very different process than building elsewhere in the Twin Cities. It takes experience and a clear understanding of the complexities that come with these properties. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
Permitting is complex. Lake Minnetonka is a protected body of water. That means multiple jurisdictions, variances, and environmental considerations. It’s not always straightforward, but we’ve navigated it many times.
Lots are unique. Many parcels started as seasonal cabins, which means narrow footprints, unusual topography, and design challenges that require creative thinking.
Neighbors care. Rightfully so. These communities are proud of their neighborhoods and highly invested in what’s built next door. Respect and thoughtful design go a long way in your lakefront retreat.
It’s an investment. Land here doesn’t come cheap. Most build opportunities are tear-downs, which means you’re starting with a substantial investment before the first shovel hits the dirt. But when you do it right? The result is extraordinary.
Know the Rules — and the Exceptions
There’s a common misconception that you can build right up to the water’s edge. But the standard shoreline setback is 75 feet. If you’re lucky enough to find a grandfathered-in boathouse or structure closer to the water, that’s a gem — you can’t build new ones like that anymore, but you can update what’s there.
Also: There are acres of water, and location matters. If you’re commuting to downtown Minneapolis, where you buy around the lake makes a big difference. The west side of the lake can add 20 minutes to your drive compared to the east side!
Designing for Lake Life
Lake Minnetonka homes are shaped by the way people live. Some of our clients are avid boaters — they cruise, dock for dinner, and host weekend guests. Others are families who spend summer days tubing, skiing, and swimming from dawn to dusk. And some clients just want a lakeside retreat: to soak up the view with a coffee in hand and a quiet morning sunrise. We design for all of it!
From boat lifts and dock access to outdoor entertaining spaces and large windows that capture the light off the water — every detail should reflect how you want to experience the lake.
Let’s Build Your Lake Home Legacy
If Lake Minnetonka is calling your name, we’re here to help you answer with a home that’s worthy of its shoreline! Contact us today and let’s get started!