DESIGN&LIVING APARTMENT LIVING
In the reading nook, Laneil Skaff created the design details using a technique she found online to handmake the book wall art, carefully bending back edges to create art using triangles and squares, then gluing maps and patterns on the inside covers.
Creating Community
A reclaimed wood wall and custom, reclaimed wood tables create warmth and character. "We didn't match all of the chairs and there are various seating areas—we wanted it to feel like home," said Jenna Stowers. To get the rustic, modern look, the Skaffs did their homework and spent ample time researching design trends to emulate throughout their community spaces. "All of the wood used for the tables is reclaimed from churches in Minnesota and custom made by Josh Humble of Finnu," said Nate Skaff.
"Our residents have taken it upon themselves to create events," said Jenna Stowers. "One resident was gracious enough to actually make a homemade meatball meal for the Stone West community. Some of the ladies have coffee every other Thursday. It’s not by Skaff Apartments, they’ve just created their own little community and events. We’ve had birthday parties in here, work parties, wedding receptions, Christmas parties and even Thanksgiving." Recently, the Skaffs hosted their own event inviting all residents to a grill-out in the courtyard. These events help residents to meet one another and they're able to show them how the grills and firepits work. "It's really just the community experience we wanted to offer our residents. They can choose to be as involved or uninvolved as they want, but it seems like most people, no matter what age, are longing for that community feel," said Julie Stoe.
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