BEFORE IMAGES by Spacecrafting

The back staircase spans all four levels of the home, each floor with its own flair thanks to Kristen Sheikh from Bruit de la Mode Inc. Once used as the back staircase for employees of the Pillsburys, it is now reimagined as another access point for the homeowners and guests to navigate from floor to floor. Two remodelers were involved in the staircase including Vujovich Design Build, Inc. on the Lower Level and J3 Renovation and Design on the main and third levels. 

Honoring Alfred and Eleanor Pillsbury’s love for Chinese bronzes and jade art, the designer drew inspiration from a Chinoiserie mural. Collaborating with Hygge & West, a serene water-lily scene with tones of muted green, blue, and charcoal serves as the primary focus of the secondary hallways and stairs throughout the Castle. For a modern twist, she paired this mural with a carpet from INTERSOURCE by STARK, cut as a stair runner.

The eclectic collection of art and design in these areas pays tribute to the vast array of Archaic Art the Pillsburys collected and donated to the Minneapolis Institute of Art. Transitioning from the traditional upper-level hallways, the lower-level stairway and hall shift to a darker, moodier vibe. Here, the Castle stone brings in a natural, homey feel. The design features rich grays, blacks, and golds, with wallpaper showcasing sharp, graphic shapes reminiscent of the forests in northern Minnesota.

Much like the Pillsburys’ fascination with diverse art, you’ll see curated a collection from local artists like Mary Jo Hoffman, Lisa Roy, and Saintly Sisters, adding wit and nostalgia to the design. Restoration of the Secondary Staircase included refinishing the stair treads and painting all of the existing and new millwork. As a glimpse into the past, the original finish was maintained at the handrail, newel and balusters. 

These areas were made possible by the contributions of Warners’ Stellian, INTERSOURCE by STARK, Plato Woodwork, Ohana Home & Design, Stone Source, Aztek Countertops, Cutting Edge, Sherwin Williams, Northstar Home Technologies, Bayer Built, and Hygge and West.