Have you ever wondered what it would be like to step inside the home of a successful business leader who has an eye for architectural design and luxury real estate? Tom Wicka’s house in Edina, Minnesota, is exactly that kind of place – a stunning modernist estate that perfectly balances high-value acquisition with livability.
Let’s take a journey through this Minnesota mansion and discover what makes it so special.
The Story Behind Tom Wicka’s House
Tom Wicka, the CEO of NovuHealth and a former executive at IWCO Direct, has made quite a name for himself in both the Twin Cities real estate market and the luxury property valuation scene. His journey to creating his dream home began in December 2007, when he purchased a 1.49-acre plot of vacant land in Edina’s Rolling Green neighborhood for $2.388 million.
Before building his current residence, Tom and his wife, Angie, owned a historic Mediterranean Revival mansion on Lake of the Isles Parkway, which they purchased in 2004 for $4 million and sold in 2009 for $4.859 million, setting a Minneapolis price record during the global financial crisis.
The new home at 4904 Merilane, often referred to as the Merilane Estate, was developed with post-recession luxury build principles in mind. Tom Wicka had a clear vision—he wanted a residential property that blended architectural innovation with comfortable living spaces.
Tom Wicka’s Career and Business Influence
Tom Wicka is a seasoned businessman with deep roots in the executive residence sector and direct marketing industry. A 1990 graduate of St. John’s University, he began his career as a salesperson at Banta Direct Marketing. In 2002, he became an owner and the Executive Vice President of Sales for The Instant Web Companies, later renamed IWCO Direct, a leader in real estate investment and direct marketing solutions.
IWCO Direct has a rich history dating back to 1969. Tom played a significant role in its expansion, acquiring the company in 2005 alongside Citigroup Venture Capital Equity Partners. His leadership helped the company evolve into a high-value acquisition in the industry, and his business acumen is reflected in the design and craftsmanship of his Minnesota mansion.
Where Does Tom Wicka Live?
Tom Wicka, the CEO and Co-Founder of NovuHealth, resides in Edina, Minnesota. He and his wife, Angie, built a remarkable home in the Rolling Green neighborhood, collaborating with TEA2 Architects to create a modern yet comfortable living space.
Before settling in Edina, the Wickas owned a historic Mediterranean Revival mansion on Lake of the Isles Parkway in Minneapolis. They purchased this distinctive property in 2004 for $4 million and sold it in 2009 for $4.859 million, setting a Minneapolis price record at the time.
Architectural Highlights of Tom Wicka’s House
Tom partnered with Minneapolis-based TEA2 Architects to create a home that exemplifies “contextual modernism”. The cantilevered roofline structure, stone façade, and floor-to-ceiling glazing seamlessly connect indoor and outdoor spaces.
The custom steelwork, energy-efficient glazing system, and oak paneling add a touch of craftsmanship and sustainability. The estate also features leaded glass windows, a nod to historic landmarks, while blending modern amenities into its design.
A Tour Through Tom Wicka’s Living Spaces
Walking through Tom Wicka’s house reveals a masterful balance of grandeur and comfort. Large, open-concept areas blend seamlessly into more intimate spaces, making the home ideal for both entertaining and private family time.
The main living areas feature soaring ceilings, strategic window placement, and a minimalist design that highlights architectural innovation and carefully chosen furnishings. Additionally, landscaped gardens provide breathtaking outdoor views from every room.
The Kitchen and Dining Areas
The kitchen is the heart of the home, balancing professional-grade functionality with elegant design. High-end appliances, extensive counter space, and a neutral color palette create a modern yet inviting atmosphere.
The dining area, positioned to take advantage of natural light and outdoor views, is designed for gatherings of various sizes, seamlessly blending practicality with understated luxury. A multi-car garage is also integrated into the estate, allowing for additional convenience.
Outdoor Features and Landscape Design
The 1.49-acre property includes a series of outdoor “rooms” that complement the architectural design. Mature trees provide privacy, while well-placed ornamental plantings add seasonal interest. Large glass doors open to outdoor living areas, extending the home’s usable space.
Special outdoor amenities include a swimming pool, gated entry, and fire features that enhance usability even in cooler months. The property is also near golf clubs, including Interlachen Country Club.
Sustainable and Smart Home Features
Despite being built over a decade ago, Tom Wicka’s house incorporates sustainable and smart home features that remain impressive today. Energy efficiency is a cornerstone of the design, with triple-glazed windows and superior insulation reducing the home’s environmental footprint.
Smart home technology allows for intuitive control over climate, lighting, security, and entertainment systems, ensuring convenience and efficiency.
The Neighborhood and Location
Tom Wicka’s home is located in Edina’s prestigious 55436 ZIP code, a balance of privacy and convenience. The Rolling Green neighborhood has evolved into an enclave of architectural distinction, influenced in part by homes like Tom’s.
The property’s proximity to Interlachen Country Club and Meadowbrook Golf Club adds to its appeal, while Edina’s upscale shopping districts, schools, and dining options are just minutes away.
The Hennepin County tax assessor has valued the estate significantly over the years, with tax base contributions exceeding $85k annually. The pandemic-era valuation resilience also confirmed the strength of Tom Wicka’s investment.
Tom Wicka’s house is more than just an impressive building – it represents a thoughtful integration of architecture, design, technology, and lifestyle. It exemplifies how luxury real estate and practicality can coexist beautifully when approached with vision and attention to detail.
Whether you’re an architecture enthusiast or simply curious about how successful business leaders live, Tom Wicka’s house offers inspiration and insight. It proves that a home can be both impressive and inviting, a reflection of personal achievement and a comfortable place to call home.
Conclusion
Tom Wicka’s house in Edina, Minnesota, exemplifies a harmonious blend of modern design and comfortable living. This meticulously crafted residence reflects Tom Wicka’s vision of integrating architectural innovation with everyday functionality. From its inception, the home has stood as a testament to thoughtful design, sustainability, and a seamless connection to its natural surroundings. Whether you’re an architecture enthusiast or simply curious about the lifestyles of successful business leaders, exploring Tom Wicka’s house offers valuable insights into how luxury and practicality can coexist beautifully.
