Home I N S I D E R ’ S G U I D E
PHOTOGRAPHY BY TROY THIES, STEVE HENKE AND ELIESA JOHNSON
EMINENT INTERIOR DESIGN Brandi Hagen, ASID, owner and principal designer
Top tip: Don’t be afraid of color and pattern. Solids never
go out of style, but neutrals need playful touches to provide visual interest.
Trend you love: I think black hardware is going to be around for a long time. It looks stunning against both painted and stained cabinets.
Common misconception: That large kitchens are inherently better than small ones. I’d rather work in a small, well-laid-out kitchen than a purely large space any day.
Trend you’re over: I’m completely over the distressed cabinets trend. If we’re creating a brand-new kitchen, let’s make it look fresh, shiny and clean.
How to get inspired: There are countless excellent home tours offered in the Twin Cities. Take full advantage of seeing things in person; photos don’t always do a room justice.
Secret to great kitchen design: Keep it simple. Most homeowners only do one kitchen remodel, so avoid incorporating too many trends that will go out of style. Classic always wins the day!
Single upgrade that makes a big impact: Hardwood
flooring and carpeting. They’re both a huge element of any home, one you wouldn’t want to redo anytime soon. It’s worth investing in an elegant carpet or a quality hardwood floor that will last.
A classic that will never go out of style: Stainless-steel appliances will never go out of style. They’re timeless and complement almost any aesthetic.
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Artful Living
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Magazine of the North
Your company’s trademark: At Eminent, we focus on
listening and putting our clients’ ideas first. In the end, I want their homes to reflect them, not only a designer’s influence.