As we dive into the world of luxury home construction in the Sioux Falls area, I’m thrilled to sit down with Luca Calarailli, a renowned expert in construction, design, and architecture. With a passion for integrating cutting-edge technology into innovative home builds, Luca has made a significant mark on the industry, particularly through his work with stunning developments like Nine Mile Lake in Tea. Today, we’ll explore the allure of lakeside living, the creative process behind designing standout homes for the Fall Parade of Homes, and how modern features are reshaping the way we think about indoor-outdoor spaces.
Can you tell us about the Nine Mile Lake neighborhood in Tea and what sets it apart as a place to call home?
Nine Mile Lake in Tea, just a stone’s throw from Sioux Falls, is a gem of a community. What makes it truly special is the serene manmade lake at its heart, complete with a private beach. It’s rare to find a neighborhood that offers such a unique blend of natural beauty and modern convenience so close to the city. The setting creates a peaceful, resort-like atmosphere that feels like a permanent vacation, yet you’re still minutes from all the amenities of Sioux Falls. It’s a place where families can build a lifestyle, not just a home.
What is it about living near a manmade lake with a private beach that seems to captivate so many homeowners?
Water has this universal appeal—it’s calming, it’s beautiful, and it instantly elevates any property. A manmade lake with a private beach offers that coveted waterfront experience without the hassle of being hours away from civilization. Homeowners love the idea of stepping out their door to enjoy a beach day or a quiet evening by the water. It’s a lifestyle upgrade that adds both emotional and tangible value to their investment.
How does a home in Nine Mile Lake balance the appeal of a lakeside cabin with the benefits of a primary residence?
That’s the magic of Nine Mile Lake. Many people dream of owning a cabin on a lake somewhere remote, but the reality of maintaining a second property or driving long distances often holds them back. Here, you get that cabin-like escape with the lake views and relaxed vibe right in your everyday home. It’s a primary residence with all the modern comforts and conveniences, yet it feels like a getaway every time you look out the window or step onto the beach. It’s truly the best of both worlds.
As a builder, what sparked your inspiration for designing the home at 1425 E. Nine Mile Court?
The home at 1425 E. Nine Mile Court was an exciting canvas for us. The lakeside location itself was a huge inspiration—we wanted to create a design that maximized those stunning views and embraced the natural surroundings. Our goal was to craft a space that felt luxurious yet approachable, with a strong focus on blending indoor and outdoor living. We drew from modern architectural trends and the unique needs of potential buyers in this area to create something that feels fresh and timeless.
Since this home is a spec build for sale, how did you decide on the innovative designs and features to incorporate?
With a spec home, we have the freedom to experiment a bit, which is always exciting. We start by thinking about the lifestyle of future homeowners in a place like Nine Mile Lake. For this build, we focused on cutting-edge elements that elevate daily living. For instance, we integrated smart home technology for seamless control of lighting and climate, and we included high-end finishes that feel both luxurious and durable. We also paid close attention to feedback from past clients and market trends to ensure the features resonate with today’s buyers.
Can you walk us through the indoor-outdoor living concept in this home, especially the unique garage entertaining space and its connection to the screened-in deck?
Absolutely. Indoor-outdoor living is a cornerstone of this design, and the garage entertaining space is a standout feature. We transformed what’s typically just a functional area into a social hub, complete with ample room for gatherings, custom storage, and even a setup for watching games or hosting parties. It flows directly into a screened-in deck that overlooks the lake, creating a seamless transition. The deck is perfect for enjoying the view without worrying about bugs or weather, and it ties the whole concept together by bringing the outdoors right into your living space.
The lower level of this home includes a high-end entertaining area with a golf simulator. What inspired that addition, and how have people reacted to it?
The golf simulator was born out of a desire to offer something unexpected and fun, especially for homeowners who love to entertain or enjoy unique amenities. We wanted the lower level to be more than just a basement—it’s a destination in itself. The idea came from seeing how popular these simulators are becoming in luxury homes, and it fits perfectly with the lifestyle here. The feedback has been incredible; visitors are blown away by how it transforms the space into a personal playground, especially during colder months when outdoor activities are limited.
With three homes in the Nine Mile Lake development featured in this year’s Fall Parade of Homes, how does it feel to have such a strong presence in one neighborhood?
It’s incredibly rewarding to showcase three homes in Nine Mile Lake during the Fall Parade of Homes. Having multiple properties in one development allows us to highlight the diversity of designs and ideas we bring to the table, all while emphasizing the unique appeal of this neighborhood. It’s a chance to show how each home can cater to different tastes and needs, yet all share that special lakeside charm. We’re thrilled to be part of such a dynamic community and to share our vision with so many visitors.
What do you think is fueling the high level of interest and traffic at the Parade of Homes this year?
I think the surge in interest comes down to a few things. First, people are always eager to see new ideas and trends in home design, and the Parade offers a perfect opportunity to do that. Second, the location of Nine Mile Lake is a huge draw—folks are curious about lakeside living so close to Sioux Falls. And finally, there’s just a general excitement about exploring beautifully crafted homes in person. The nonstop traffic we’ve seen reflects a genuine hunger for inspiration and connection with builders like us.
What’s the biggest advantage for visitors who tour these homes in person during the Fall Parade of Homes?
Seeing a home in person during the Parade is a game-changer. Photos and virtual tours are great, but nothing compares to walking through a space, feeling the flow of the layout, and experiencing the quality of the finishes firsthand. You get to interact with builders directly, ask questions, and really envision yourself in the home. It’s also a chance to pick up ideas for your own projects, whether you’re building, renovating, or just dreaming. That personal connection makes all the difference.
How do you engage with potential homeowners and visitors about new designs and features during the event?
I love chatting with visitors during the Parade because everyone brings a different perspective. My approach is to listen first—understand what they’re looking for or what excites them about a home. Then, I walk them through the design choices, explaining why we included certain features or layouts and how they can enhance daily life. It’s a collaborative conversation; I’m there to share expertise but also to learn from their feedback. Building that rapport often sparks ideas for future projects.
Being part of the Fall Parade of Homes with 50 homes and 36 builders across the metro area must be quite an experience. How does it feel to contribute to such a large-scale event?
It’s an honor to be part of the Fall Parade of Homes. With 50 homes and 36 builders involved, the event showcases the incredible talent and diversity in our region’s construction industry. It feels great to contribute to something that not only highlights our work but also brings the community together. You get a sense of camaraderie with other builders, and it’s inspiring to see how everyone pushes the envelope with their designs. It’s a celebration of craftsmanship and innovation.
Can you share a bit about the Home Builders Association of the Sioux Empire and their role in supporting events like the Parade of Homes?
The Home Builders Association of the Sioux Empire is a fantastic organization that plays a vital role in our industry. They bring builders, suppliers, and homeowners together, fostering a sense of community and collaboration. Their support for events like the Parade of Homes is invaluable—they handle everything from promotion to logistics, ensuring the event runs smoothly and reaches a wide audience. They also provide resources and advocacy for builders, helping us stay on top of trends and regulations. Their work really elevates the entire homebuilding experience in the region.
What’s your forecast for the future of luxury home design and community developments in the Sioux Falls area?
I’m very optimistic about the future of luxury home design and community developments around Sioux Falls. I think we’ll see even more emphasis on lifestyle-driven designs—homes that prioritize wellness, sustainability, and seamless indoor-outdoor connections. Communities like Nine Mile Lake will continue to grow in popularity as people seek unique, amenity-rich environments close to urban centers. Technology will also play a bigger role, with smart home features becoming standard in luxury builds. Overall, I expect the area to keep attracting attention as a hub for innovative, high-quality living spaces.
