Letter from the Editors
Kate Nelson: Over the past year, the idea of home has taken on new meaning as our abodes have evolved to meet our every need. We’re entering a new season of optimism, and an emergence from the safety of our sanctuaries feels imminent. So what’s next for our homes, which have so dutifully served us during an unprecedented time? To answer this, Jennifer Blaise Kramer tapped today’s hottest interior designers — from Nate Berkus to Kathryn M. Ireland — for their take on where design is headed (page 120).
Hayley Saunders: One trend that’s on the rise is indoor/outdoor living. Andersen Windows & Doors showcases four talented tastemakers who bring this theme to life (page 178). Chris Plantan, meanwhile, gives her tips for how to make your home office work for you (page 62). And fashion hits a home run, with top designers making a foray into the home sphere with It items like rugs, mugs and vases (page 70).
KN: If you’re in need of some inspiration, look no further than Andrew Zimmern’s recently renovated Twin Cities residence (page 212). The celebuchef gives us a tour, highlighting all the special touches that reflect his life philosophy, like smaller kitchen appliances to help reduce food waste and an oversize dining table that always has room for more.
HS: The home content doesn’t stop there. PKA Architecture and Streeter Custom Builder detail how they brought a Lake of the Isles modern marvel to life (page 162). Three acclaimed Twin Cities designers share the influences behind their incredible interiors (page 79). And we peek inside a just-sold Cedar Lake contemporary by architect Charles Stinson (page 206).
KN: As we were putting the finishing touches on this issue, our community collectively breathed a sigh of relief with the conviction of Derek Chauvin for George Floyd’s killing. One poignant reminder of this tragedy is the street art created in the immediate aftermath. Amidst global unrest and social justice movements, street art has emerged as an important means of expression, as Robyne Robinson explains (page 224). When we think about home, let us think beyond our own walls. Let us recognize the work that needs to be done to make our community safe, welcoming and comfortable for all. And let us act with both courage and compassion as we bring about that necessary change.
Happy reading,
Kate Nelson, Editor-in-Chief, and Hayley Saunders, Managing Editor + Associate Publisher
