Spring Parade Home - Highlights 2020 Design Trends

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Our 2020 Spring Parade Home is also the first home in our Bird Song development. This house has a lot of style and many eye-catching patterns and trends throughout!

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Fun Bathroom Designs & Patterned Everything:

So many things to love in this bathroom. The unique style light fixture, the dynamic tiles complimented with the black tile and counter tops.

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Dark Painted Doors:

The black garage doors along with the black front door really make a statement with the all white exterior.

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Geometric Patterns:

The different tile patterns compliment each other in this small space.

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Bold Black and White & Return of Black:

In the lower level bathroom they went bold with the black subway tiles, the white shelves and white penny tile.

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Multi-Functional Spaces: The epoxy floor allows the homeowners to use this area for all kinds of activities.

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Free Standing Tubs: Who doesn’t love the look of elegance a free standing tub gives a master bath.

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Crittall Style Windows & Doors-Black Frames: The black frames make every window and door defined and stunning!

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These are just a few of our favorite design trends of 2020.

Below are more of our favorite spaces from our Spring 2020 Parade Home.

What is your favorite space in this home?

Stuck Inside? Check out some of our Zehnder Homes favorite rooms!

Here are some of our favorite rooms where we wouldn’t mind being stuck inside.

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Sport Court!

Hanging out and burning energy in a sport court is an obvious choice when having to stay inside!

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Family Room

Especially if you have nice cozy fireplace the family room is a great place to relax, play games or watch a show.

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Back Yard

If it is nice out or even above zero, your yard is a great place to get some fresh air!

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Fitness Room

Even if you don’t have a fitness room any space can be made into a workout area to burn energy and stay healthy. Move your body!

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Porch/Deck Area

For most Minnesotans our porch and deck area are our favorite spaces. Fresh air, sunshine and relaxing are exactly what we need after a long winter of being indoors.

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Master Bathroom

Whether you are a bath or shower person one of the best places to unwind is your master bathroom.

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Office

A lot of us will be spending a good amount of time in our home office. It always helps to have a comfortable set up to be more productive.

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Lower Level

Your lower level might be the family favorite with having the most for everyone to do!

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Laundry Room

This room isn’t everyone’s favorite, but the more organized and clean things are the better you will feel!

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Kitchen

The kitchen is a great place to get creative! Especially if you need ideas to keep your kids entertained.

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Sauna

If you have a room in your house that was made uniquely for you and your family, now is a great time to take full advantage of it!

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When you are stuck inside what is your favorite room to spend time in?

Past 2019 Design Trends

Take a look at the past 2019 design trends used in

our own Zehnder Homes houses.

Eye Catching Fireplaces

Copper Accents

Brass Decor

Bold Geometric Patterns

Floral Patterns: Wall Paper

Vintage Lighting

Matte Finishes

We look forward to the new 2020 year

and making the latest trends come alive!

Have Some FUN in the Minnesota Winters!

The snow is here!

Now instead of wishing it away, here are a few ideas that the Zehnder Homes Team enjoys doing in the winter season.

• Hockey is a big sport around here, whether it’s watching it or playing it. It isn’t winter in Minnesota without some hockey!

• Ice skating is another sport for the athletic and not so graceful, but anyone can do it! There are ice rinks everywhere, so if you haven’t put on some skates in forever you should brush off the dust and take them for a spin.

• Checking out the Holiday light displays! You can see them in your neighborhood or find larger displays. There are parks, houses, trains, and building displays all over the Twin Cities. Some you can get out and walk around and others you can see from the cozy warmth of your vehicle.

• Ice fishing is a family favorite for some of us. It may not be appealing to everyone, but it brings joy to so many people during this winter season. You can’t drive past a lake without seeing a few dozen fish houses on it!

• Polar plunging is definitely not for everyone, but a few crazy Minnesotans do it every year! One of our team members has done it a few times!

• Of course snowmobiling! People wait all year for the snow to go trail riding. Others might just go in circles around the yard! If you have kids, then you probably know they love getting pulled around and around, with a sled, behind a snowmobile for hours!

• We can’t forget about Skiing and Snowboarding. A few of us at ZH’s have been skiing or snowboarding for years!

• Sledding, snowball forts, making snowmen, and decorating are a few other ZH’s favorites!

• Last but not least the Holiday treats!!!

What is your favorite winter activity? :)

Meet the Team - Renee Molstad

Introducing Renee Molstad, our Project Manager here at Zehnder Homes.

She may be our newest addition, but she has been in the industry for several years. Renee is the main contact for clients during the construction and warranty phase ensuring the build process is smooth and enjoyable for our homeowners.  As a licensed real estate agent she also assists with marketing and sales.  She’s getting to know her new team here at Zehnder Homes!

Get to know Renee a little better...

Name/Nickname:
Renee Molstad

Job Title:
Project Manager

Where I’m From:
The small town known for its 4th of July Celebration - Delano, but currently reside in Champlin Park (aka Brooklyn Park)

Favorite thing about my job:
My awesome co-workers! Helping our clients visions and dreams become reality.

My favorite housing trend currently:
Destination bathtubs

Favorite Food:
Ice cream

What are 3 things you can’t live without?
My family, my friends and 3 more wishes!

When I’m not working, you’ll find me…
Spending time with my kids, relaxing at the cabin, on the boat or at the golf course.

Tis the Season: Spruce Up Your Front Entry!

Your front entry is the perfect place to show your festivity. You can decorate it for each season and/or Holiday. Little touches can go a long ways. A few ideas to spruce up your front entry are:

-Holiday/Seasonal Door Wreaths

-Throw Pillows on Out Door Patio Furniture

-Seasonal Plants and Container Garden Planters:

-Holiday/Seasonal Welcome Mats

-A Different Color Light Bulb for the Outdoor Lights or Seasonal Exterior Light Covers

What is your favorite way to decorate your front entry for the season or Holidays?

Room of the Month - 59th Ave Master Bathroom

Light & bright with modern farmhouse finishes! This Master Bathroom has it all - claw foot tub, floating shelves, and walk-in shower! Let’s take a closer look at the details…

Vanities
Custom built vanities feature function & beauty! The lower open storage is the perfect place to display towels or other decor, while the center bench offer separation between spaces & a place to take a break! Solid surface counters showcase the stunning countertop mount sinks by DXV. Drawer space is functional while still giving the vanity area the “open - feel”.

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Light Fixtures
We always say - light fixtures are the jewelry of the home! They help in making your vision (or theme) come to life! This bathroom features simple yet beautiful clear globe lights over the vanities & in the ceiling - giving it the Modern Farmhouse vibe our clients were looking for!

Claw-foot Tub
Ok, time for the real showstopper - this TUB! This clawfoot tub by Kallista is easily one of the most eye catching features in this bathroom. With dramatic eagle-claw feet and furled edging, it truly is a piece of art! Paired with the modern Mirabelle tub faucet, it rings true to the style of this home. Enameled floating shelves are a great place to display decor!

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Tile Plank Flooring
These wood-look plank tile floors are the perfect way to add warmth into this space while still being functional for a bathroom. The various widths & colors give you a rustic, comfortable feel.

Tile Shower
Who doesn’t love a classic white subway tile shower? It’s the perfect mix of traditional & modern! This shower features 2 shower heads - one mounted on the wall & one rain head - bringing you a spa-like experience! These homeowners’ opted for a shower ledge vs. a niche - which we think was a great choice! It’s a functional yet clean way to access all the things you’ll need in the shower. Framed with clear heavy glass, this shower is the perfect place to relax.

What is your favorite part of this space?

- Zehnder Homes Team -

How to Maintain Proper Humidity Levels in Your Home

Living in Minnesota, we’re accustomed to changing humidity levels in our homes. In the winter, we experience dry air - which can effect how we feel (dry throats, itchy skin, etc.), but can also have effects on our homes.

It’s important to maintain the proper humidity levels in your home to keep them comfortable & to take care of products used to build them. Indoor humidity levels should be between 30-40% - keep in mind, as the temperature gets lower, the lower the humidity level should be in the home.

To measure the humidity levels in your home, you can purchase a hygrometer. This is an inexpensive gauge that looks like a thermometer. Once you have a better idea of how humid your spaces are, you can take the steps necessary to make it more ideal.

Humidity Too Low

Low humidity means your home will be dry. Without the proper moisture your home may experience drywall cracks, hardwood floor seams splitting (shrinking), wood cracking, millwork shrinking or cracking. Low humidity is common in Minnesota because of our colder temperatures. This can be solved by increasing humidity in your home by using a humidifier. These must be kept clean, changing the filters regularly according the the manufacturer’s instructions. Make sure you purchase a humidifier that will cover the necessary square feet for your area (so that you’re not constantly refilling water).

Humidity Too High

High humidity can also cause damage to your home, and it’s a breeding ground for mold, rot, and insects. A lot of homeowners may fall victim to high levels because homes are built more efficiently to prevent energy loss from heating & cooling. Which means they seal in a lot of moisture. If humidity is too high, you can purchase a dehumidifier. This pulls moisture out of the air, and you’ll need to empty the water from it regularly.

When building with Zehnder Homes we always suggest adding a humidifier to your furnace to help control the humidity levels in your home automatically. While you’ll still want to keep an eye on it, this should greatly decrease the amount of effort put in to controlling the levels in your home.

Meet the Team - Rob Zehnder

We’re excited to introduce our Purchasing Manager, Rob Zehnder! He’s a vital part of our team, as he manages all the selection pricing for our clients and assists at the job sites.

Get to know Rob a little bit more…

Name/Nickname: Robert/Rob

Job Title: Purchasing Manager

Where I’m From: Truman MN - I graduated from Gustavus.

Favorite thing about my job: Seeing new trends and new ideas. I like being a part of building something special to our clients.

My favorite housing trend currently: Reclaimed material

Favorite Food: Steak, biscuits and gravy, milk, cheese

What are 4 things you can’t live without? My truck, dairy products, weekends, & my dog Smokey

When I’m not working, you’ll find me… Working on my house, at the lake, spending time with friends, family, and my fiance’ Sara.

Rob & his fiance, Sara

Room of the Month - Linner Road Living Room

Our Fall 2018 Parade of Homes Model home was a showstopper. We’re so excited to share a closer look into one of our favorite spaces of the home - the Living Room!

Built Ins
The built in floating cabinetry brings function and style. With soft close drawers & doors, wood top, and large hardware - this space is perfect for storing movies, blankets and more - while still creating a contemporary feel. These cabinets are a stained Rift Oak, and if we do say so ourselves, are gorgeous.

Hardwood Floors
The wood floors are a site-finish hardwood floor. They’re 5” wide and 3/4” thick White Oak with a custom stain. The stain is a warm grey/brown that ties in the neutral pallet of this home perfectly. Site finish hardwood floors are great because over time, if they scratch, you can get them refinished!

Fireplace
This fireplace is truly the centerpiece of this room. With stone going up to the ceiling, a raised limestone hearth, and cozy open flame gas fireplace unit. This is the perfect spot to cozy up next to in the cold winter months. The custom made wrapped mantel adds a contemporary finish to a more traditional fireplace to tie the entire space together.

Folding Door
This home sits on a large flat lot, that was perfect for a pool! With that pool, the homeowners decided they wanted to expand their entertaining space - so they could bring the outdoors in. The Centor folding door was the perfect fit to make this dream a reality! The large 4 panes of glass include a swing door, and can bi-fold on-top of one another to create an open wall! This door also features a window-covering system for privacy, as well as a complete screen that will cover the entire opening.

What is your favorite part of this space?

Meet the Team - Keith Pew

Introducing Keith Pew! He is the Production Manager at Zehnder Homes, and is known for his great work ethic and fun personality. He supervises all job sites and handles all warranty items. He's always there to help and has a great reputation in the field. We're happy to have him as a vital part of the Zehnder Homes team! 

Get to know Keith a little better...

Name/Nickname: Stone

Job Title: Production Manager

Where I’m From: Morris, MN, but currently reside in Rogers, MN.

Favorite thing about my job: Meeting new people

My favorite housing trend currently: Winding/curved stairs

Favorite Food: Tacos

What are 3 things you can’t live without? Phone, my sons, coffee

When I’m not working, you’ll find me… relaxing at the cabin & hanging out with my kids.

Keith Pew

Room of the Month - Glen Road Kitchen

Modern farmhouse style with an art deco twist! This spacious Kitchen offers plenty of light, a large island, and beautiful wainscoting on the walls. 

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The Center Island
A large center island is the perfect place to enjoy appetizers & drinks with friends, or serve the kiddos a quick dinner. It's blue-gray color adds a "pop" without being too startling. Brass hardware is featured on the doors & drawers - did we mention that we love the storage along the backside of the island?! Large glass pendants give an industrial feel as they compliment the brass kitchen faucet. The farmhouse sink is tucked nicely under a stunning marble countertop, and is large enough for pots and pans!

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The Perimeter
A large Jenn-Air stove is the centerpiece of this kitchen perimeter. Whether you're a 5-star chef, or a home cook - this kitchen has all the amenities needed to make your masterpiece. The custom vented hood is large and makes a statement, while the white subway tile blends in to it's surroundings - letting other features in the kitchen pop! Cabinets to the ceiling offer plenty of storage as well as the pantry to the right of the fridge.

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Casual Dining
Comfortable, chic, art deco - 3 "words" we'd use to describe this space. Wainscoted walls add elegance, while the large rustic table brings comfort. The cove ceiling with crown molding creates a separate space for this casual dining area from the rest of the kitchen. 3 large black Andersen windows offer lots of light and really bring the outdoors in. 

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What is your favorite part of this space?

Meet the Team - Megan Prager

Introducing Megan Prager! Our rockstar Office Manager here at Zehnder Homes. She is responsible for all things accounts receivable & payable, and keeps our office running smoothly on the daily.

Get to know Megan a little better...

Name/Nickname:
Megan Prager -at ZH I’m more known by my last name, "Prager" :)

Job Title:
Office Manager

Where I’m From:
Swanville –  A tiny town in central Minnesota, where we have a lot of turkey farmers. I currently reside in Rockford with my husband, Dusty, my dog, Rocky, and coming in January - Baby Prager!

Favorite thing about my job:
The atmosphere, my co-workers, and the flexibility of daily tasks.

My favorite housing trend currently:
I really like the look of shiplap and barnwood!

Favorite Food:
Avocado, spinach, chicken, strawberry salad…and pizza.

What are 3 things you can’t live without?
My dog Rocky, a pony tail, and running shoes.

When I’m not working, you’ll find me…
On a lake or doing some sort of outdoor activity.

Megan & Her Husband, Dusty, On the coast of france.

Apple Orchard Fun

Apple Orchards are full of fun fall activities for all ages!

No matter where you live in the twin cities or suburbs, there is an apple orchard close to you. Not only do they have sweet, delicious, fresh treats for you to sample, pick, or buy, but most have a variety of fun activities for everyone in the family to do too!

A few of the activities we enjoy are the corn pit, petting zoo, corn mazes, kid rides, apple cannons, and of course the apples! So if your looking for a fun fall activity to do with the family you should check out some of Zehnder Home’s favorite apple orchards listed below.

Apple Jack Orchards
4875 37th St SE, Delano, MN

LuceLine Orchard
2755 Rose Ave, Watertown, MN

Pine Tree Apple Orchard
450 Apple Orchard Rd, White Bear Lake, MN

Minnesota Harvest Orchard
8251 Old Hwy 169 Blvd, Jordan, MN

What is your favorite apple orchard in the Twin Cities area?

Fall Parade of Homes Model - #195

It’s that time of year again and we are so excited to share our Model Home with you!

This completely custom home is located on a beautiful .7 acre lot in our newest development, Linner Road Estates - just minutes from downtown Wayzata, and less than 15 minutes from downtown Minneapolis. This contemporary design has high-end finishes and designer details around every corner. Centor folding patio door, custom-designed study, floating stairs and luxurious kitchen are just a few of the highlights.

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The Parade of Homes runs through Sunday, September 30th, and the hours are Thursdays - Sundays from 12-6pm. We look forward to seeing you there!

Fall Maintenance Tips

Summer is wrapping up, and we've begun ordering PSLs (pumpkin spice lattes) and taking our cinnamon flavored candles out from storage. But, while some of us may be a little excited to slip into the cozy clothes, watch football, and eat chili, we can't forget about taking care of business - your home.

It's important to prepare your home for the upcoming season - inside & out. Here is a list of items you should be taking care of during Fall to help your home get through our (sometimes) frigid Minnesota winters. 

- Inspect and clean gutters & downspouts
- Seal gaps & cracks around windows & doors
- Inspect your roof for damaged or curled shingles, corroded flashing, or leaky vents
- Repair driveways, sidewalks, and steps
- Drain and winterize outdoor faucets and irrigation systems
- Store any lawnmowers, weed-whips, etc. and prepare your snowblower (test to make sure it works), shovels, etc. for the coming winter.

- Clean or replace your dirty furnace filters (you should be doing this monthly)
- Inspect your furnace or have your HVAC contractor do a maintenance check to prepare for heating your home this winter
- Test smoke alarms & CO detectors (change batteries if needed)
- Check dryer venting - make sure it's clear of lint
- Get our your rake & garbage bags
- General Cleaning: now is the time to deep clean every room. Get rid of old newspapers and magazines, leftover household chemicals, clear spaces around heaters, furnaces, and other heat producing appliances. 
- Store spring/summer outerwear & get coats, boots, and gloves ready. 

- General Cleaning: now is the time to deep clean every room. Get rid of old newspapers and magazines, leftover household chemicals, clear spaces around heaters, furnaces, and other heat producing appliances. 
- Store spring/summer outerwear & get coats, boots, and gloves ready. 

Once you've prepared your home for the coming winter, sit back with a warm cup of apple cider (or PSL) under a cozy blanket, and RELAX.

Enjoy this magical season with your loved ones!

Room of the Month - Yellowstone Rec Room

This Lower Level Rec/Family Room is perfect for entertaining! It features a ping pong table, stone fireplace, reclaimed barn wood, barn doors, bar, and more! 

Family Room
Cozy on up to the fireplace to enjoy your favorite movie or sporting event! This fireplace features stone to the ceiling & a reclaimed barnwood mantle. Custom built ins frame the fireplace & offer plenty of storage! 

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Game Table Area
Whether you're super competitive or just want to play a good 'ole friendly game -this spot is perfect for you! The barn doors on the wall help bring the rustic touch to this area of the large space. 

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Bar
This Wet Bar is the perfect place to belly up to enjoy a cold brew! It has walkout access to the patio, which makes it perfect for entertaining - inside or out! It features a stone mosaic backsplash, granite countertops, and pendant lighting - to give you that "real" bar feel! It opens up to the rest of the Rec Room, making entertaining a breeze! 

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What is your favorite part of this Lower Level Rec/Family Room?

Refresh Your Style

If you are looking for ways to refresh your style, there are a lot of fun ways to liven up a room . Adding accent colors and patterns can really make a room stand out.

A few ways to add color and patterns to a room are by adding bright colored accent pieces.

A few bright accent pieces can add a lot of color to a room.

Throw pillows are a fun way to brighten up a room, for any season!

You don't always have to paint the walls to add color to a room...Instead paint the cabinets!

Colored furniture can make a bold statement.

Wallpaper in a small space is really eye catching.

Area rugs & accessories are a fan favorite to add color to a space.

Furniture with patterns are a great way to liven up a room.

Where is your favorite place to add a pop of color in your home? 

Meet the Team - Megan Schwartz

Introducing Megan Schwartz, our Project Coordinator here at Zehnder Homes.

She makes sure all of our homeowner's selections are finalized, assists our interior designer & office staff with tasks throughout the day, and she is the main contact for any warranty items that come up after closing. Megan assists our Zehnder Homes team to ensure the build process is smooth & enjoyable for our homeowners.

Get to know Megan a little better...

Name/Nickname:
Megan Schwartz - I'm known around the ZH office as "Schwartz" or "Schwartzy"

Job Title:
Project Coordinator

Where I’m From:
I grew up in Maple Grove, MN but currently reside in St. Michael with my husband, Daniel, & my dog, Dexter!

Favorite thing about my job:
I love seeing a client's vision come to life. From ideas to the final product - it's so rewarding to see it all come together.

My favorite housing trend currently:
I am loving the brass comeback! Whether it be plumbing fixtures, hardware, or light fixtures - it's such a fun way to dress up a space without a huge commitment to the trend for years to come.

Favorite Food:
Anything with potatoes or breakfast foods (french toast, pancakes, cinnamon rolls, the list goes on...)

What are 3 things you can’t live without?
My dog, Dexter, my cellphone, and my cozy bed

When I’m not working, you’ll find me…
Visiting family in Crosslake or Milwaukee, out on the lake, or at a meat raffle with my husband, friends, & family!

Megan with her husband, Daniel, and dog, Dexter.

Room of the Month - Fox Street Owner's Suite

Picture your dream Owner's Suite...Would it have a large shower, soaking tub, heated floors, and plenty of storage? We thought so. The Owner's Suite at our Fox Street Model is truly a dream come true! 

Bedroom
You walk into the Owner's Suite through double doors. To the left is the bedroom, to the right is the private bathroom. The bedroom is spacious and the large windows offer great light! The cozy sitting area features built-in book cases & recessed can lighting. Who wouldn't want to curl up and read a book here?

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Bathroom
This Owner's Suite Bathroom is a showstopper! Marble floors & countertops add an elegant feel to this luxurious bathroom. This room is bright & airy while offering all the amenities you need to start or end your day. Enameled white cabinetry features practical storage as well as display shelves. Chrome fixtures add a little "bling" to an already stunning bathroom. Let the heated floor warm your toes as you hop into the freestanding soaking tub. 

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Closet
The closet is spacious, yet practical. Plenty of room for hanging as well as drawers and shoe shelves! The best part of this closet is that it has a pocket door leading to the laundry room. Talk about convenience! 

What is your favorite part of this beautiful Owner's Suite?