This St. Paul condo, originally built in 1885, had seen updates over the years that stripped away much of its original character. Our client wanted the main level reimagined in a way that honored the home’s history.

To do that, we introduced a new doorway with a transom window to define the dining and kitchen spaces, resized the front entry closet to open up views from the bay window, and fully gutted the kitchen and powder bathroom. The result is a warm, inviting layout that feels true to the era of the home.

The pink kitchen is the heart of the project, layered with thoughtful, eccentric details that give the space its cozy charm. Custom Mercury Mosaic tile was used on the kitchen floor, backsplash, and fireplace surround, adding an artisan feel throughout. Antique light fixtures were selected throughout the main level, reinforcing the home’s historic charm. All trim details were carefully historically matched, tying the entire main level back to the home’s original roots.

This 3rd-floor apartment remodel in a 1903 Minneapolis home was full of challenges and charm. Originally the servants' quarters, the space was reimagined by designer Sarah Hughes.

Along the way, we uncovered significant rot that required major structural repairs, plus a bathroom that was two inches out of level thanks to years of settling and some questionable past work. Once the structure was sound, we got to focus on what we do best — the craftsmanship. From the hand-made artisan tiles throughout to the intricate trim work and wallpaper detailing, every corner of this apartment boasts custom, thoughtful touches. Custom built-in storage was added throughout, with clever designs to maximize space and functionality. The result is a perfect blend of historic character and modern elegance, all crafted to last.

As part of a local industry collaboration of a whole-home renovation in this 1903 Minneapolis home, we transformed a spacious third-floor bedroom into a guest suite that feels like a luxurious escape. Designed with the feel of worldly travels in mind, the room features a hand-painted mural of a starry night sky on the ceiling — a dreamy touch that adds both whimsy and wonder.

The attached ensuite bathroom brings the wow-factor, starting with a dramatic gothic arch that leads into a shower framed by a striking quartzite slab wall and a luxe rain head fixture. The custom vanity, styled to resemble a fine piece of furniture, offers plenty of storage while honoring the home’s historic charm.

Every detail of this guest retreat was designed to make visitors feel at home — if home happened to be a boutique hotel with old-world elegance and a really great shower.

Our clients loved everything about their new home — except the kitchen. The layout was fine, but the storage and style needed help. We kept the original footprint but added all new semi-custom cabinetry, including a hidden corner pullout, tray dividers, a utensil drawer, and expanded storage along the fridge wall to create a proper pantry setup.

We also continued the original hardwood floors into the kitchen for a seamless look, installed sleek granite countertops, black appliances, and added playful light fixtures that gave the space some personality. It’s a great reminder that sometimes it’s not about more space — it’s about making the most of the space you’ve got.