While we continue to stay home, our personal spaces have become more important to us than ever before and are worth recognizing. In the coming weeks, we will be appreciating the living spaces where interior designers, business leaders and other notables are spending their time these days.
Amanda Lorenz is the owner and principal designer of Henri Interiors and specializes in high-end new-construction and design projects. She shared with us the dreamy spaces inside her home where she spends quality time with her partner and animals.
Photography provided by Henri Interiors
What’s your approach to design when it comes to your own living space?
It’s similar to the approach I take with my clients but just a bit more lighthearted. With my clients, I would say I’m a bit more neutral, but with myself, I’m much more playful and tend to decorate around the mood of my art pieces by adding in more color. It’s definitely more eclectic and ever-evolving.
What are some of your favorite decor, design or architectural elements in your home?
My entire home revolves around my art and vintage furniture and accessories. Every piece has a story, and every story is filled with memories. My newest favorite addition are the giant brass bird sculptures I have in my office. My mom has the best luck finding antiques, a lot of which we incorporate into our design work. Without fail, I can call her and put a little bug in her ear about something — and sure thing, she finds it immediately.
How did you approach the design of your home?
I was just able to purchase my first home, so my approach has been with wonder and excitement! I’m in the exploration and inspiration phases of how to restore additional charm into my 1915 St. Paul home. But right now, I’m just setting up all of my favorite things and taking the time to enjoy it. It’s been such a joy and blessing in uncertain times to finally have a home that is truly mine, so I plan to soak that in while saving all the inspiration on Pinterest for when I can finally make up my mind. I am truly my most difficult client.
What’s your process for finding pieces for your home?
I collect things along the way that bring me joy. I keep my large pieces neutral and play with my art and accessories. I often end up re-styling my house after every large project we do. I just get so inspired, and re-styling is an easy way to make a big impact.
If you could add one design item to your home, what would it be?
I would add a large-scale piece of art. Over the years, I have collected many small-scale pieces that were in my price range, but if the sky’s the limit, I would most definitely splurge on a statement piece. I have been following Kristen Giorgi for a number of years now, and her figure drawings really resonate with me. It is absolutely something I am looking to incorporate into my home.
Do you have a favorite room?
My office is my favorite room, because it has made my life exponentially better throughout this time of work from home. I honestly don’t know what I would do without it! It was the first room I set up. I’ve rearranged it a few times already, and it’s at a sweet spot for me right now. I’m so content with it that I sometimes find myself just staring into it from the kitchen with so much gratitude as it’s just a perfect space to be calm and creative.
What room do you spend most of your time in? How does this room serve you?
I’ve been spending most of my time in my home office, which is a far upgrade from working from my couch like I’ve done the majority of my career. It creates a space to be a little more serious and stable, where I can get all of my ideas out and keep them out while I work through the design process. I keep inspirational images up on my walls and rotate them out as I create vision boards for my existing clients and the clients I hope to work with in the future.
How are your personal spaces bringing you comfort or joy right now?
My personal space is like a warm hug and is a bit moody with soft muted colors. I recently changed out my accessories and pillows from light and bright to warmer tones. I’m so thankful for all the natural woodwork in my home as it conveys the same energy. It’s been a really fun exercise being home and seeing how the light comes through all the windows at various times throughout the day. I would have never had the opportunity to experience a new home like this during any other time in my life, and for that, I am the most grateful. I am truly living in every inch of it and enjoying every moment with it, especially the quality time spent with my partner and animals.
