Steeped in historic charm, this Minneapolis home showcased original oak millwork and captivating leaded glass windows but was in need of an update. Victoria Holly Interiors sought to marry its timeless allure with modern elegance by bringing in light minimalist touches. From the inviting living room nook to the textural dining space, each meticulously curated space preserves the home’s heritage while shining a light on contemporary culture, creating a harmonious blend of the past and the present. Vivian Johnson captured the space in the photos below.
From the designer… Brimming with historic aesthetic, this Minneapolis architectural gem featured original oak millwork throughout, such as ceiling beams, arched doorways, and captivating window bench bays – complimented with stunning leaded glass windows. Our clients fell in love with the home’s charm and wanted to breathe new life into its interior while preserving its architectural roots. We embarked on a journey to highlight certain details of the stunning stained woodwork while introducing refreshed elements that align with our clients’ personal style. Through the selection of warm tones, textured fabrics, and modern yet simple forms, we created a harmonious blend of the past and the present, resulting in a space that is both inviting and unique.
The living room, with its challenging length and narrow depth, offers a sun-filled space to unwind and embrace the comforts of home. The focal point of the room is a long bench amidst the original wood accents, exuding a sense of timeless charm. This cozy nook becomes a retreat, perfect for curling up with a good book as the snow falls. To maximize the potential of the room’s long and narrow layout, we artfully curated a blend of furniture pieces that create distinct seating areas. A carefully designed long sectional takes center stage, providing ample seating for relaxation and socializing. Complementing the sectional is an accent chair that adds a touch of character and enhances the room’s versatility. The living room, once challenging to navigate, now boasts a seamless flow and a sense of purpose.
Just off the living room, French-paned glass doors open into a moody dining room moment. Paying homage to the home’s history, we made a deliberate choice to maintain the original woodwork staining of the beams, windows, and arched doorways. However, we opted to tone down the built-in elements by painting them, striking a delicate balance between preserving the home’s heritage and refreshing it. At the heart of the dining room stands a long dining table with a striking travertine base. The table is surrounded by rush chair seats, exuding a rustic charm that complements the space’s moody ambiance. Custom mohair chairs in a rich tan hue add a touch of luxury and sophistication and break up all the hard materials. Illuminating the space is a sculptural and stunning brass light fixture, casting a warm and inviting glow that enhances the room’s atmospheric allure.
The primary bedroom offers a serene space with its textured plaster walls, creating a rich backdrop. To add a contemporary touch to the historic home, a low bed takes center stage, beautifully complemented by brass sconces and marble nightstands. This combination of elements strikes a balance between modern aesthetics and the home’s timeless charm. The rattan sconces seamlessly tie in with the dark artwork frame, adding a touch of natural warmth to the space. They create a gentle interplay between light and dark, enhancing the overall ambiance. Adjacent to the bed, a custom bench with custom upholstery invites relaxation and provides an additional moment of comfort and style.
Like what you see? Take a peek at the talent behind the story… Interior Design: Victoria Holly Interiors · Photography: Vivian Johnson
