Episode Details

In this episode of Wealthyist, host Austin Grandinetti sits down with Amber Kolacki-Hake, designer at Wise Design Builders, to explore how affluent homeowners in the Lake Country area (and beyond) are thoughtfully redesigning their homes to match evolving lifestyles.
Key highlights include:

• The rise of multi-zone kitchens — entertainment/show kitchens with clean, streamlined islands for gathering, paired with hidden “dirty” working kitchens for serious cooking and prep, plus dedicated walk-in pantries.
• Wellness-focused spaces — spa-like primary bathrooms and dedicated wellness suites featuring steam showers, multi-sensory experiences, hot/cold therapy, and calming retreats.
• Future-proofing & aging in place — wider doorways, barrier-free showers, lever handles, drawers instead of cabinets, and holistic planning that considers resale value versus “forever home” needs.
• Four-season living — enclosed four-season rooms and lower-level remodels to maximize Wisconsin’s seasons.
• Smart, timeless technology — layered lighting controls (Lutron Caseta/RadioRA), scene settings, and flexible systems that avoid fast-outdated tech.
• Design philosophy — a holistic, “begin with the end in mind” approach that mirrors financial planning: long-term vision, master planning, education, and avoiding unnecessary spending or trendy mistakes.

The conversation draws clear parallels between strategic home design and wealth management — both emphasize clarity on goals, future needs, and building something that truly supports your desired lifestyle for decades to come.