Photos by Alyssa Lee || Styling by Kimberly Swedelius
When interior designer Laura Wiedmann first stepped into this 1990 Bloomington home, she was greeted by a sea of honey oak and dark brown tones—a stark contrast to the lively personalities of the young family that resided within. So, over the course of two years, she led the homeowners on a stylistic exploration, helping them grow and refine their personal design style. “I could tell they had an appreciation for classic design with a modern twist,” explains Wiedmann, who now, after nearly six years in Minnesota, lives and works in Los Angeles. Recognizing the need for both aesthetic and functional improvements, Weidmann and the couple decided on a full-gut remodel to transform the residence into a space that felt fresh, elegant, and ultimately, uniquely theirs.
The project began with three simple objectives: improve traffic flow, create inviting spaces for entertaining, and establish a sophisticated, yet family-friendly foundation. To achieve this, the redesign involved multiple structural changes, like reconfiguring the kitchen and carving out an intimate gathering space in the great room.
From there, carefully curated finishes, furnishings, and artworks brought in warmth and character while complementing the soft, neutral architectural color palette of creams, blues, and muted tones. “This home strikes a lovely balance between classic and modern,” Wiedmann says. “It has that clean, timeless design at its core but with fun pops of pattern and color that really bring it to life.” For instance, take the home’s vibrant art pieces commissioned by international artist Gee Gee Collins, who collaborated with Weidmann and the clients to develop a custom, cohesive collection. The wall coverings found throughout the house also act as art pieces themselves.
For an added personal touch, Wiedmann incorporated custom-designed furnishings from luxury brands like A. Rudin and Hickory Chair, ensuring every detail was a true reflection of the homeowners. She says, “It was such a joy to watch their style blossom throughout the whole process.”
Sophisticated Swap-Outs
If you’re drawn to the classic furnishings or artful energy in this home, consider incorporating a similar look in your own space—but with a fresh twist. For a more contemporary feel, Wiedmann recommends swapping the Hamilton Round Table from Worlds Away in the dining room with The Reade Dining Table from Maiden Home, which boasts “modern lines and a complementary finish,” making it the perfect sculptural anchor. In the daughter’s bedroom, the floral Beatrice Wallpaper from Cowtan & Tout, with its soft watercolor strokes and serene aesthetic, can be easily replaced with Designers Guild’s Shanghai Garden pattern. “While the designs maintain a feminine appeal appropriate for a young girl’s room,” Wiedmann says, “they also possess a maturity that can transition well into her teenage years.”
