Photography provided by Gabberts
Cindy Erdall, an interior designer at Gabberts Design Studio in Bloomington, developed an appreciation for the trade as a youngster. Both sets of grandparents enjoyed fine furnishings, and she can still describe the striking pink textile accented with strands of silver that covered one grandmother’s swivel chairs.
She nurtured her affinity for design at Minnesota State University, Mankato, earning a degree in interior design and space planning. She began her career working for two of the most prominent designers in the Twin Cities: Robert Lenox and Billy Beson. She credits that early training with instilling the fashion-forward design ideas and work ethic that her clients love.
“The most important part of the process,” Erdall explains, “is establishing a great designer/client working relationship from the very beginning.” Her secret to building that foundation is simple: She listens. She wants her work to reflect her clients’ taste and lifestyle.
Her training and experience as well as Gabberts’ extensive product lines enable her to work comfortably across a range of styles — traditional, contemporary and transitional. Plus her knowledge of furniture, flooring, carpeting, draperies and window treatments means she can assist clients from a project’s beginning to end. Here, Erdall shares a few of her favorite things.
Photography provided by American Leather
Style
“I enjoy all style categories,” she shares. “I personally like traditional style but can lean more contemporary to reflect my client’s personality and the architectural details of the home.” She loves the current emphasis on biophilic design, incorporating the colors, textures and feel of the natural world into her work.
Photography provided by Gabberts Design Studio
Space to Design
“My favorite space is the great room,” Erdall notes. She enjoys crafting comfortable sitting areas where friends and family can relax and chat. For the same reason, she likes to design lower levels that incorporate amenities like entertainment systems, pool tables and golf simulators. “I like the spaces where people gather to enjoy each other’s company,” she adds.
Photography by WWD
Icon
Kelly Wearstler is a favorite, because she blends fashion with interior design. Plus she wants her clients to fall in love with their spaces again and again, “which is what I strive to do,” says Erdall. She also admires Wearstler for her fearless style; she isn’t afraid to go big and bold.
Photography provided by Gabberts Design Studio
Era
Because Erdall grew up during the seventies, she relates to this decade and its warm color palette. After the era of minimalism and its cool neutrals, the new maximalism with its intense hues — even jewel tones — is officially here. And that’s just fine with her. Checking out the color trend forecasts for the coming year, she affirms, “Blush, pink, mustard and avocado are here to stay in 2024!”
Photography provided by Universal Furniture
Inspiration
She looks to current design trends, fashion styles and nature to keep her work fresh. She particularly loves organic textures — wood, stone, rattan, wool, cotton, fur — and sustainable textiles.
Photography provided by Gabberts Design Studio
Accessory
Lighting adds the perfect finishing touch, she says, yet it is often overlooked. A statement chandelier or the perfect reading lamp can make a room.
Photography provided by Ciao Bella
Restaurant
Ciao Bella in Bloomington is her local favorite, largely for its warm ambiance and inviting approach. “I love their outdoor terrace and handcrafted cuisine,” she shares.
Photography by Daniel Sessler
Destination
Erdall’s travels often include outdoor adventures. She’s an avid hiker, which makes Switzerland one of her favorite locales. Despite mountain trails that triggered her fear of heights, she loved the stunning scenery, the flowers, the cows (complete with bells) and the invigorating fresh air.
Photography provided by Gabberts Design Studio
Secret Source
“At Gabberts, there are no secret sources,” she affirms. “I’m grateful for the countless resources available so that we can procure a unique item that’s perfect for my client and their space.”
