5228 90th Street E, Northfield, MN 55057 - Rice County

An exceptional home and opportunity awaits! The Hong House on Heath Creek was originally constructed next to the grounds of Saint Olaf College in 1940, and was later moved down the hill, to its present site along 340 feet of Heath Creek shoreline. It was then expanded and later benefited from extensive updating in the 2000’s. Created and built by the owners, Dr. Howard Hong and wife Edna, enhanced by the design expertise of Dr. Hong’s friend and colleague, Art Professor Arnold Flaten, the home is a masterpiece. This home is grand and robust, and at the same time, infused with a welcoming playfulness, a perfect reflection of the extraordinary couple who built and nurtured this extraordinary home. Set upon 2 parcels totaling 2 acres, among professionally landscaped grounds, with meandering aggregate paths, a circular drive, with decks and patio spaces, this country estate is a sanctuary but still within view of Saint Olaf College and just a mile from the city. At over 4300 finished square feet, with 5 fireplace features, four bedroom and four baths, three living and food prep areas, a library, flex and sitting rooms, sauna, indoor whirlpool, zoned heating and so much more, the home offers an endless array of possibilities. Rich construction elements are found everywhere, with a heavy emphasis on limestone and wood, the home offering two distinct moods. The upper level is bright, open, vaulted and bright, with a stunning array of windows, with a decided Scandinavian flare. The lower level has a grotto type feel, with slate floors running throughout, and darker woods and more cozy spaces. Two “stacks” on the upper level feature a library and a large flex room. The home received an extensive makeover between 2006 – 2025. New insulated cedar shake roof in 2006, new insulated flat roof and new skylights in 2022, multiple new Pella Architectural grade windows in 2008, remodeled sauna and hottub in 2010, electrical updates in 2012 and 2023, new sidewalks, garage apron and paved circular driveway in 2014, new septic system and well in 2021, new Aqua Water Softening System in 2022, a newly remodeled kitchen in 2023 with brand new, high end appliances, and new chimney liners, new caps and retucking. During 2024 – 2025, a lower level bath received a new ceiling and new shower valves, drain tile and a sump pump was added, new sliding glass doors, some front siding replacement, a radon mitigation system were also added. Through effort, and extensive investment, the home is now in outstanding condition and move-in-ready for you. No other home is like this one, a home perfect for people who relish life, just like the couple who created it.

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