BEFORE IMAGES by Spacecrafting

A short walk through the hallway reveals an apartment suite complete with all the amenities you could ever need. Previously used as a short-term rental by past homeowners, Albertsson Hansen Architecture and Design reconfigured the space into three distinct zones: the bedroom, the bathroom, and a living area complete with a kitchenette. Holly Home Renovations led the thorough remodeling efforts in the Apartment. This space will be the ideal haven for friends and family of the homeowners to stay when they are in town. 

Inspired by the idea of a Secret Garden — a “gardener’s garden” that feels a bit wild and unrestrained, the designer aimed to create a space that feels separate from the rest of the home, as if you’re stepping into another world. The colors and patterns evoke a connection to nature, creating a bright and cheerful atmosphere. This vision comes to life with custom tile from Mercury Mosaics, chic pieces from Contemporary Furnishings by Granby, and bold Thibaut wallpaper installed by Cutting Edge, Inc.

The designer also drew inspiration from an English Cottage, particularly the Charleston House, famous for its artistic inhabitants and guests known as the Bloomsbury group. This group of intellectual and artistic thought leaders of the early 1900s used the Charleston House to experiment with personal expression, treating every surface—walls, tables, even dishware—as a canvas. Their approach to decor was bold and expressive, mixing patterns and colors with little restraint. This design echoes a sense of artistic expression. Every space is treated with a painterly brush, using color and patterns in a deep, layered, and expressive way. The result is a thoughtful mix of old and new, intended to inspire creativity and comfort.

The refurbished Apartment honors its storied past while offering guests an impeccable retreat. It features a meticulously designed kitchen and living room, a tranquil bedroom, and an opulent bathroom. The layout has been completely reworked for enhanced functionality. Handcrafted tiles in the bathroom and kitchen backsplash add distinctive charm, complemented by intricate millwork and carefully selected wallpaper adorning every surface. Vibrant hues throughout the space infuse it with energy and warmth, creating an inviting ambiance.

Many of the original doors were stripped and refinished, preserving the home’s historical integrity. Extensive structural rot repair was done behind the walls, addressing years of water damage from the roof valleys, ensuring the space’s longevity and safety. This Apartment truly embodies a harmonious blend of past and present, offering a unique and inspiring retreat for its guests.

These rooms were made possible by the contributions of Warners’ Stellian, Twin Cities Closet Company, Stone Source, Visual Comfort and Co, Plato Woodwork, Ohana Home & Design, Ferguson, Thibaut, Intersource by Stark, Total Window Design, Hunter Douglas, The Knobbery Minneapolis, Armac Martin, Aztek Countertops, Cutting Edge, Mercury Mosaics, Belle Kitchen, the Galley, Northstar Home Technologies, Sherwin Williams, 22 System, American Glass, Bayer Built, Schluter Systems, and Contemporary Furnishings by Granby.