ISSUE 001
COMPLIMENTARY
MAGAZINE
BY TRENDSETTERS
2024 The Year of the Home A Look Inside "The Dutch" by Christen Joy
Expe Trends rts on Com in 202 ing 4
EDITOR'S NOTE
Welcom W
e are so excited to unveil "HOME by Trendsetters"—a new publication that's the result of an extremely exciting collaboration with Fargo Monthly. This isn't just any new magazine; it's a revolutionary dualmagazine experience. Imagine a blend of the latest local buzz, cutting-edge home design trends, and a sprinkle of everything in between—that's it! We hope
these pages will not only engage you but also be a source of daily inspiration. Back in 2023, we took a daring leap, transforming "Design & Living" into "Trendsetters." Our mission? To shine a light on the change-makers and innovators in our community. "Trendsetters" became our passion project, a celebration of local creativity and bold ideas.
But we heard you loud and clear—you missed the home and design stories. So, here we are, evolving yet again with "HOME by Trendsetters." This magazine is a homage to all things home and design, dedicated to bringing you up-to-date home and design content, but with that edgy, current, and quickhitting twist we evolved in "Trendsetters."
me HOME "HOME by Trendsetters" is an exploration of the latest trends in the home and design industry. Join us on this adventure as we explore exquisite interiors, revolutionary design ideas, and the pulsating community of creators behind it all. Here's a sneak peek of what you'll discover inside: - Dive deep into modern interior design trends with
insights from experts. - Exclusive sit-downs with the crème de la crème of designers and industry frontrunners. - Handy tips for your home improvement and DIY ventures. - Real-life home makeovers from our readers that will leave you awe-inspired. - And a whole lot more! Get ready to be part of this journey with "HOME by
Trendsetters," we're glad you're here! Editorial Team Brady Drake, Geneva Nodland, Grant Ayers, Josiah Kopp
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
ISSUE 001
26
30
A LOOK INSIDE THE DUTCH
12 24 26 28 30
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A Look Inside The Dutch 2024 Trends: Leah Petersen 2024 Trends: Cassandra Grenz 2024 Trends: Sara Bekkerus 2024 Trends: Paige Breidenbach
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12 32 34 36 38
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2024 Trends: Kristen Carlson 2024 Trends: Michael Betlock 2024 Trends: Skye Fingalson Homecare 101 for First-Time Home Buyers
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Are you overwhelmed trying to plan for your big day? You're not alone. We've done our best to provide all types of local resources, expert guidance, de-stressing tips and everything in between. Your wedding day is one of the mos important days of your life. Hopefully, this issue will help you prepare for that day so it's all about you.
Introducing "HOME by Trendsetters" A New Era in Home Design with Fargo Monthly We are thrilled to introduce "HOME by Trendsetters," a pioneering publication that marks a unique collaboration with Fargo Monthly, offering you a oneof-a-kind dual-magazine experience. Whether you're seeking the latest community happenings, innovative home and design ideas, or anything in between, we are confident that our pages will captivate and inspire you.
"HOME by Trendsetters" isn't just a magazine; it's a journey into the heart of home and design. We invite you to join us in this exciting new chapter as we explore stunning interiors, groundbreaking design concepts, and the vibrant community of creators that make it all possible.
In 2023, we embarked on a bold venture, transforming our beloved home and design magazine, Design & Living, into a fresh and dynamic concept: Trendsetters. This endeavor was driven by our desire to spotlight the trendsetting individuals and businesses making waves in our community. Throughout the year, Trendsetters has been a labor of love, celebrating the creativity and ingenuity that thrives among us.
"HOME by Trendsetters" will feature a rich array of home and design content, including: • Expert insights into contemporary interior design trends. • Exclusive interviews with top designers and industry leaders. • Practical tips for home improvement and DIY projects. • Inspiring real-life home transformations from our readers. • And much more!
However, we've listened to your feedback and realized there's a void left behind in the realm of home and design content—a topic you dearly missed. In response, we're evolving once again. We proudly present to you "HOME by Trendsetters," a magazine dedicated to the world of home and design. Our goal is to bring you the most innovative, cutting-edge content, showcasing the latest trends, designs, and ideas that will transform your living spaces into works of art.
A Call for Home Enthusiasts and Professionals
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What to Expect
Your home is your canvas, and we invite you to share your masterpiece with us. "HOME by Trendsetters" is calling for submissions from homeowners and professionals who have created or transformed spaces in unique and inspiring ways.
How to Participate We’re looking for: • Expert columnists. • Photos of your beautifully designed or renovated homes and spaces. • Stories behind your design choices and the journey of your project. • Tips or advice you would like to share with fellow home enthusiasts. • And more! Contact Information Email your submissions to brady@spotlightmediafargo.com OR Scan the QR code below to be taken directly to a submission form.
JANUARY 2024 Volume 1 Issue 001
MAGAZINE
BY TRENDSETTERS
HOME by Trendsetters is published 12 times a year and is available at area businesses and online at trendsettersfargo.com
Publisher Mike Dragosavich EDITORIAL Editorial Team Lead Brady Drake Brady@SpotlightMediaFargo.com Editors Geneva Nodland, Grant Ayers Art Director Kim Cowles Editorial Graphic Designer Ty Betts Creative Strategist Josiah Kopp INTERACTIVE Business Development Manager Business Development Associate Videographer Director of Creative Strategies Graphic Designer Web Developer
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HOME by Trendsetters is published by Spotlight LLC, Copyright 2024 HOME by Trendsetters & trendsettersfargo.com. All rights reserved. No parts of this magazine may be reproduced or distributed without written permission of HOME by Trendsetters, and Spotlight LLC, is not responsible for, and expressly disclaims all liability for, damages of any kind arising out of use, reference to or reliance on such information. Spotlight LLC, accepts no liability for the accuracy of statements made by the advertisers.
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“Throughout The Dutch, we used a blend of two different white hues. You’ll notice that the custom cabinetry is not a bright white but a creamy, warm white that is timeless and traditional. The white paint color comes from Patrick Ahearn, an East Coast-based architect who is known for his Dutch Colonials. We opted for this white blend as all selections for the home were meant to be traditional, not trendy. The home is anchored in what I call 'fresh traditional' It’s still fresh and relevant, but it's very timeless and classic in its design elements. On that note, we also selected marble countertops and backsplashes throughout the home. It is a higher maintenance material, however, with the design aesthetic we wanted to support, we were willing to compromise on a little more TLC dayto-day. Similar to hardwood floors, you can’t replicate a natural stone.”
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A Look Inside
The Dutch By Brady Drake Photos provided by Jill Ockhardt Blaufuss
The Dutch is the personal home of Christen Anderson, owner and principal designer of Christen Joy. The home became her passion project for two years and now we have the opportunity to take you inside the walls of this project. This month, Christen Joy tells us firsthand how the bathroom spaces were designed to become sanctuaries of comfort, style, and elegance.
Primary Bathroom As with the rest of The Dutch, the beautiful primary bathroom is the result of careful planning and interior design and it doesn't miss a pretty detail. From all of the details and amenities, such as the towel warmer, you would be hard-pressed to find a nicer primary bathroom. 13
"You’ll notice the design detail of a higher backsplash which is a design selection we opt for in our client projects as well. Not only is this a design detail for the home, but it also protects your walls whether it’s paint or wallpaper. For The Dutch, we also added a decorative element of an ogee edge and slope corners, keeping the countertop edge clean.” “While at High Point Market, I had fallen in love with this wallpaper and knew it would have to have a place in The Dutch. I opted for my bathroom as I knew I’d have the pleasure to enjoy it daily or even a smidge longer when soaking in the tub. The wallpaper guided me with other selections that you may pick up on if you look closely. In the light fixtures, you have these little swirls that represent a similar look and feel as the wallpaper both next to the mirror and above the soaking tub. You can see the same thing in the beautiful curved designs of the mirrors.” 14
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“Tile selections for the primary started with the marble subway tile and ended with the penny rounds for the floor, both inside and outside of the shower.”
“Throughout all bathrooms, we opted for Armac Martin cabinetry hardware and House of Rohl plumbing fixtures. While each space has its unique selections, adding these pieces of jewelry was another layer of design that allows the spaces to really sing. While these selections are higherend and an investment up front, they are also high quality and will stand the test of time in the home.” 15
(London's Spot in the Bathroom) “In design, I believe something that makes a home feel well-designed are the layers of design elements that can be seen and enjoyed throughout the space. It’s about adding elements that you aren't going to see or feel in an everyday bathroom. This may include a towel warmer, floor heat, dimmers for that perfect bath lighting, a great candle, or lovely-smelling soaps—it’s all about the experience.” 16
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Guest Bathroom The guest bathroom is a testament to Christen's commitment to exceptional guest experiences. It's a blend of functionality and luxury, offering a unique and memorable stay.
“I started with the floor in the space. This is a mosaic marble and I fell in love with it because it has such a wow factor to it. I know most people wouldn't necessarily gravitate to it because it's very specific, however, I thought it created such a statement that could really be coupled with other design elements to make a special space for guests. Throughout this space, I really wanted to create an experience for guests that was truly unique and didn’t feel like ‘just another bathroom.’” “We wanted to make the cabinetry (shown in Maple) feel like a piece of furniture— so we made the toe kick flush, something you’d see in a piece of furniture. We topped the cabinetry, again, with our marble and high backsplash and echoed the polish nickel throughout this space. You’ll notice the House of Rohl plumbing fixtures but in different styles—making each bathroom unique and its own.” 18
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“The wallpaper was selected to complement the flooring—while not stealing the show but definitely having a moment when you first meet. This room to me, feels like a boutique hotel in Hollywood somewhere and I really love the thought of when you walk into a great bathroom and have this unexpected ‘wow’ moment based on the selections. It’s a surprise and a treat for the guests. This room almost feels like a powder room as the additional bathroom elements are separated by a pocket door.” “For our guests, we added additional amenities to the space to make our guests stay truly feel like a Four Seasons experience. Jo Malone candles, a drawer heaped with anything they may have forgotten, and Matouk towels and robes— stitched with ‘The Dutch’ on the chest.” “In addition to our soap niche, we added a shaving niche that is recessed for guests to place their toes inside to easily shave their legs.” 19
The Powder Room This room sits on the main floor. One of the main details in this space is the floating vanity fabricated out of marble. Before construction started, we worked closely with Spalding to echo the mirror’s curved edge with the top of the backsplash. These design details make a room feel well designed, even if, day to day, a guest doesn’t necessarily notice that specific detail. It’s like when you say, ‘It just feels right!’ even if you can’t put your finger on what exactly makes it feel so great!” “In any powder room, I definitely opt to do something more fun, bold, and daring. We used this wallpaper by Laura Park that is colorful and has a lot of personality, not just in the color, but also in the texture—it's actually a handmade product that is then dyed. I love it when I see guests putting their hands up to the paper to experience the texture.”
Christen Joy | livechristenjoy.com
Architect - Jackson Strom Builder - Century Builders Custom Cabinetry - Wendt Custom Cabinets Fabricators - Spaulding Stone 20
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| @livechristenjoy
Tile - Carpet World and Tile Masters Wallpaper Installation - Gene Finneman & Team Electrical - K&D Electric
“Thank you for taking a tour of The Dutch bathrooms. While not trendy, we opted for fresh traditional and hope you enjoyed a fresh take on a timeless look. Cheers.” - Christen Joy Keep on the lookout to see more of The Dutch in future issues.
By Brady Drake Photo by Josiah Kopp
Christen Anderson Owner and Interior Designer of Christen Joy
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About Christen Joy infuses comfort and refined function to both residential homes, new or existing, and commercial spaces. Anderson is known for new construction home designs (layout direction to selections), furnishings (one room to an entire home) and accessorizing. Christen Joy specializes in boutique commercial projects and residential properties, both new & existing. Known for infusing comfort & refined function in her designs with each design unique to the client and space.
Anderson’s professional marketing and project management background offer a unique skillset to ensure your dream is realized in an organized way. Anderson is a passionate art collector, world traveler, and home cook who frequently entertains for friends. Her dinner parties feature custom floral arrangements and place settings. Christen’s style is “fresh traditional,” with timeless selections, layers of texture, unexpected but welcomed color & pattern and jewelry through lighting, accents, and art. -From livechristenjoy.com
Christen's
outlook for 2024 trends
The new trends I'm seeing are people wanting to be more classic and timeless with their selections. This may mean making a bigger investment in those timeless elements than they typically would have in the past. For example, I’m seeing clients wanting to invest in a countertop they love (marble), millwork details (think wainscoting or crown), or higher-end appliances with custom paneling that will stand the test of time. It's typically a more upfront cost, however, they are timeless selections that will be a design element they’ll love for years to come. Another trend that is in the same vein of class and timeless—recently, I designed a Ralph Lauren-inspired bedroom and bunkhouse in Seattle, and in 2024, I’m seeing elements of this style bubbling to the top! Think warm tones, leathers, stripes, and a lot of plaids. These selections add a lot of texture and interest to the space without feeling dated. All of these really lean into that traditional and timeless feel while still exhibiting a lot of personality.
"This is the project I did in Seattle and it's a great example of what I'm talking about. It has a very neutral foundation to start with and you can continue to update it year over year, but it has a very specific look and feel."
My favorite part of these trends is it allows us to give our clients something that they are going to love for years to come. They are still going to be able to update elements in their homes, but those core elements that they will be able to love for years and years and years will remain and serve as a strong foundation. 23
By Josiah Kopp Photo by Josiah Kopp
Leah Petersen Architect & Co-owner of Prairie Design Studio
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About Horace, ND, native, Leah Petersen is a licensed architect and co-owner of Prairie Design Studio. She earned her master's degree in architecture from NDSU in 2017 and has always been passionate about art and the design industry, which allows her to apply her creativity in practical ways. In the fall of 2023, Leah had the honor of being on the panel of judges for the sixth annual Interior Design Challenge sponsored by Trendsetters and SCHEELS Home & Hardware.
commercial buildings to multi-million dollar nursing homes. Although it's a small firm with just four members, its project range is extensive. A recent notable project Leah and Chelsey completed was ReadiTech's new office front in Horace, a very modern and sleek design filled with neon elements that perfectly complimented ReadiTech's branding.
The year 2024 kicked off in an exciting way for Leah and her sister, Chelsey Johnson, who became coowners of their family business, Prairie Design Studio. The sister duo are eager to guide the architectural firm into a new era of creativity and professionalism.
While architecture is their main focus, interior design is also a passion for Leah and Prairie Design Studio. Some clients prefer to select finishes themselves, while others rely entirely on the architect. Leah and her team assist in making clients comfortable with their final choices through renderings, samples, and interior elevations.
Prairie Design Studio is known for handling a variety of projects, from industrial and hazardous
Leah and her team work with all budgets and don't require minimum square footage to hire an architect.
Leah's
outlook for 2024 trends Leah remembers watching Extreme Makeover: Home Edition growing up and being fascinated by how those teams were able to transform homes. Today, Leah enjoys taking old furniture and decor and creating something new out of it. "I think there can be a lot of beauty found in old pieces—which takes a creative mind to see," she said. When it comes to inspiration for Leah, historic brick buildings with ornate wall details catch her eye. "I would love to be a part of designing those detailed exteriors," she said. "You don't see that much detail put into buildings anymore as designs seem to be more streamlined and modern with budget as the driving factor."
Looking ahead to 2024, Leah is excited to see more warm tones in residential spaces, welcoming more greens and beiges into the mix and saying goodbye to the grays and cool tones that have been a longstanding trend for the better part of the last decade. "I think people are realizing they're happier in those [warmer] spaces because they're not so stark and cold," she said. Moving forward into 2024, Leah says we're going to see that expressed even more with browns and warm wood tones, and she's here for it. 25
By Josiah Kopp Photo by Josiah Kopp
Cassandra Grenz Owner of CGdesign
About Growing up, Cassandra Grenz gained early exposure to construction sites, both residential and commercial, while working for her father. This experience sparked her passion for all aspects of interior design, including creativity, organization, and teamwork. After earning her bachelor's degree from NDSU in 2005, the Casselton, ND, native launched her freelance design company in 2009. Fifteen years later, she continues to enjoy the evolving styles, collaborating with subcontractors, and helping clients realize their dream projects. Cassandra specializes in residential design, focusing on remodels and new constructions. She enjoys blending clients' cherished items with new styles, believing that a home should reflect its owner, not the designer. "As a freelance designer, I am not tied to any specific brands or vendors, therefore, I allow endless possibilities to fit each client's budget," she said. Her role extends beyond typical design duties. Cassandra reviews blueprints, oversees electrical and plumbing during framing, and selects all exterior products. She assists with choosing plumbing and light fixtures, among other tasks. Behind the scenes, she ensures all parties are updated on any changes, helping keep projects on schedule. 26
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Cassandra's
outlook for 2024 trends Cassandra loves seeing pops of color return to all aspects of design. When looking ahead at the trends for 2024, Cassandra noted how excited she is that color is making a bold comeback in spaces. "I'm very excited about that because I do think that brings out more individuality and personality for all clients to show their true home and what they really love," she said. The trends Cassandra sees on the way out the door are the grays and whites, especially in the woods. Warm woods are coming back! Whether for cabinetry, flooring, or even trim, warm wood tones are returning—and Cassandra says a big reason for that is people wanting warmth in the winter months.
"Having some color around you just brings pizzazz—and a little bit of not only warmth when it's so cold out but also happiness," she said. "Color just makes you feel invigorated and energized." One more developing trend that Cassandra loves is clients wanting to incorporate heritage pieces into the design of their spaces. "I believe our ancestry and our heritage is part of us—if you're going to keep a chair that was your great-grandmother's and maybe just get it recovered, I think that's amazing," she said. "I think we're gonna see a lot more of that—and I'm excited about that because I believe it's important to keep the parts of [your heritage] in your home."
By Josiah Kopp Photo by Josiah Kopp
Sara Bekkerus Owner of Skapa Design & Consulting
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About Sara Bekkerus is the owner and lead designer of Skapa Design in Moorhead, MN. From a young age, Sara was drawn to interior design, often perusing her mother's Better Homes & Gardens magazines, critiquing the décor and saving photos for her future dream home. She named her company Skapa Design to honor her Scandinavian roots and her passion for Scandinavian design principles. "Skapa" is an Old Norse word meaning "to create, to make, to build, to design." Sara's work encompasses both residential and commercial projects, and her expertise extends to nearly every aspect of a home, including choices in paint, flooring, wood species, stain color, and even the color and style of electrical outlets.
Clients have the flexibility to involve a designer as much or as little as their budget permits. "If they are not able to hire us for the entire scope of a project, we can work with them to determine key areas to focus on," Sara said. Clients can also approach their projects in stages, with the option of ongoing assistance throughout the process. Often, Sara's engagement in new build projects starts even before clients meet with an architect. She aids in decisions related to both interior and exterior elements, guiding them through the complex process of building a home. Many clients are initially unaware of the numerous decisions and options available to them.
Sara's
outlook for 2024 trends "My goal is always to design homes that are not only beautiful but functional for families," Sara said. Two major trends she is excited about in 2024 are the shift from neutral grays to warmer neutrals like beiges and 'greiges' (beige with undertones of green) as well as the "cozy" factor returning to homes. She sees this being accomplished with deep-seated furniture, plush, thick fabrics, toss pillow groupings of varying fabrics and textures, collections of assorted throw blankets ready to cuddle up with, and thick shaggy area rugs. Sara also loves adding interchangeable accent colors and pieces to spaces, making them versatile.
"People like to be able to mix up their accent colors with the seasons," she said. She also noted we're going to see more natural and organic versions of colors, especially with blues, greens, and reds. Where does Sara draw inspiration from? She has long been influenced by the architectural work of Louis Sullivan and Frank Lloyd Wright, as well as the photography of Ansel Adams. She's inspired by what she sees in her everyday life, from an abandoned schoolhouse on a country road to her latest copy of Architectural Digest.
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By Josiah Kopp Photo by Josiah Kopp
Paige Breidenbach Owner of Mosaic Interior Design
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About Grand Forks, ND, native Paige Breidenbach not only comes from a long line of family interior designers but she's worked under some of the best names in the local interior design industry, including Trever Hill and Melanie Iverson. Paige graduated with her interior design degree from NDSU in 2020, and worked with Trever Hill as an interior designer until she became the new owner of Mosaic Interior Design in 2023—and she's never looked back. Paige and her partner, Nicholas, have been serving clients across the metro, providing residential and commercial interior design and project management services. They are the perfect one-stop shop for all your design needs. While she selects items for a client, she always considers their budget and their needs. By doing so, her team typically suggests a
minimum of two options with different price points, and will also shop anywhere the client might request. As for a new build, Paige can assist with anything imaginable. Her process involves sitting down with the homeowners and reviewing any plans that may have been drawn up at that point. The next step is to figure out how they will utilize the spaces and get a feel for their aesthetic. From there, Paige will source finishes for all areas, as well as select any appliances and fixtures for the client, and then onto furnishings and accessories. If at any point in time during the process a client would like 3D renderings, Paige is happy to provide those in addition to her other presentation materials (mood boards, schedules, space planning, etc.).
Paige's
outlook for 2024 trends As trends are beginning to shift into more warm and cozy vibes, Paige also sees antique items and hardware such as brass being accent pieces of choice for homes in 2024. "This is because, for all of the warm tones, such as olive greens and soft blacks, gold is such an important element to incorporate to really enhance [a space], but also to modernize it and to add some sophistication," she said. "So, I feel like we'll see [little touches] of brass in lighting and artwork [frames], and even with mid-tone woods."
own clients, towards classic, timeless feels that have a warmer feel in contrast to the cool neutrals homes have seen over the last several years. Paige says to also be sure to incorporate organic textures and elements into your living space with things like greenery or florals. And for those looking for an easy way to give their space a timeless feel, Paige recommends supporting the local art scene and hanging local artwork in your home.
Although she doesn't necessarily see white oaks going out, she sees a stronger draw, even from her 31
By Josiah Kopp Photo by Josiah Kopp
Kristen Carlson Owner of Studio Rogue Interior Design
About Meet the Principal Designer and Owner of Studio Rogue Interior Design, Kristen Carlson. The Arville, ND, graduated with a Bachelor of Science from NDSU's accredited Interior Design program and now has nearly a decade of interior design experience under her belt. She spent much of her career working as an interior designer and project manager alongside a custom home builder. Now, she leads the way in her creative adventure with Studio Rogue, bringing her vision to life through beautiful projects. Most recently, she served as one of the board of judges for the sixth annual Interior Design Challenge sponsored by Trendsetters and SCHEELS Home & Hardware. The inspiration behind her design name, "Studio Rogue," is rooted in a sense of adventure. "When you hear 'rogue,' images of adventure and daring come to mind. That's the excitement we want to bring to every project," Kristen explained. Active in her community, Kristen is a proud eight-year member of the Home Builders Association of Fargo-Moorhead (HBAFM) and has been involved in the FM Curling Club for about 10 years. When asked about her approach to interior design, Kristen said, "I'm curious about how people live and the things that make them happy. It's my mission to bring out 32
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their unique identities in everything I design—I strive to transform everyday spaces into functional masterpieces." Her design style is eclectic, thriving on mixing various styles to create unique, timeless statements. "My love for the unexpected combination of elements and styles is what makes me stand out," she stated, affirming Fargo as the ideal location for her unique approach. Kristen also emphasizes incorporating natural elements into her designs. "Keeping things earthy and making sure we feel connected to our environment," she said, highlighting her preference for woods, greens, stones, and organic textures to avoid a sterile feel.
Kristen's
outlook for 2024 trends Looking ahead, Kristen sees more bold patterns (wallpapers, wall panels, and tile), deep moody colors, and natural materials being used in 2024. "I see people wanting more unique spaces in homes like meditation rooms and saunas," she said. "Where minimalism has its place, maximalism will be front and center in 2024." One trend that Kristen sees going away, however, may surprise some people. "The biggest thing that I'm seeing now is people aren't really liking open shelving anymore—they like more cabinetry that goes up to the ceiling," she said. "[This way] they have actual usable storage space and not just minimal, open shelving where there's nothing there—that's the big one that I'm seeing." Kristen also says she's noticing people are wanting more color
in their homes, which seems to be unanimous across the interior design world as we head into 2024. Stained wood for kitchen cabinetry, especially with greens and blues is a developing trend. And for walls, bold and wild wallpapers are here and Kristen is loving it. "The big wild printed wallpapers are super popular right now—people are loving those," she said. "I just did one [for a client] and it looks phenomenal." Texture is another element Kristen says is coming into play a lot, from tiling to furniture selections. And with the rise of colors making a return, maybe you're wondering what color to incorporate into your home in 2024. Kristen says more reds, especially burgundy is a color that is going to be on the rise this year.
By Josiah Kopp Photo by Josiah Kopp
Michael Betlock Principal Director of Interior Design neo Interior Design Studio
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About Michael Betlock, owner of neo Interior Design Studio in Fargo, ND, is known for his unique approach to layering patterns and textures, guided by his philosophy of "more is more!" Originally from the suburbs of Minneapolis, Michael spent four years in Phoenix before moving to Fargo eight years ago. He holds a bachelor's degree from the Art Institutes International in Minneapolis. Before founding neo IDS, Michael designed for several national brands including PetSmart, Target, and SCHEELS. In the fall of 2023, he served as a judge for the 6th annual Interior Design Challenge sponsored by SCHEELS Home & Hardware. Specializing in commercial interior design, Michael's expertise covers retail, office space, hospitality, sporting facilities, financial institutions, and multifamily/mixed-use projects. The neo studio acts as
a "one-stop-shop," collaborating closely with local architects, engineers, and construction management firms. At neo, Michael prioritizes the function and experience of the end-user, with his team's creative problem-solving skills allowing them to engineer projects to fit any budget. They also offer flexible pricing tailored to each client's needs. neo employs rendering and modeling technology, enabling clients to visualize their projects from start to finish. They focus on space planning and research-based design to create functional, cohesive solutions, bringing together furniture, finishes, and lighting to convey the overall aesthetic and vision of each client.
Michael's
outlook for 2024 trends Michael's motto at neo is "design without limits." For him, this means encouraging clients to push design boundaries and helping them consider the unexpected possibilities for their spaces. And anyone who steps foot in the neo design studio knows just how true this philosophy is for Michael. In recent months, the home design industry has seen an incline in bold patterns being introduced through wallcovering and even furniture upholsteries, and Michael says this trend will continue to grow heading into 2024. "Rich saturated colors will also continue to make a comeback," he said. "Gone are the days of beige-on-beige and the more neutral color palettes. I also see an incline in more personalized and curated design choices. People
are beginning to realize buying a predetermined furniture set off a showroom floor makes their space feel 'catalog' rather than reflecting their personal style." Another tip from Michael is don't be afraid of mixing some old vintage pieces into your home, as it adds character and makes your home feel more personalized. "As a self-proclaimed modern-maximalist designer, I love seeing more color, texture, and pattern being re-introduced into our world," he said. "If you are hesitant to go full maximalist, I would suggest trying out a bold patterned removable wallcovering (or wallpaper) in a mud room or laundry room to see how you can show off your individual personality." 35
By Josiah Kopp Photo by Josiah Kopp
Skye Fingalson President & Interior Designer Design 2 Sell At The Lakes
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About Owner of Design 2 Sell in Detroit Lakes, MN, Skye Fingalson is an established interior designer who loves the lake life. Inspired by her mother's creative home projects, the Valley City, ND, native pursued her passion in the interior design industry. After interning at a local design firm in Detroit Lakes, she opened Design 2 Sell in 2019. But it hasn't stopped there; in addition to designing beautiful lake homes, Skye began another chapter in her design career, co-founding Allure in 2022, a home decor shop in Detroit Lakes. With over 18 years of experience, Her achievements include the Best Customer Service Award in the Best of the Lakes area and features in various publications.
Skye offers full-service interior design, from complete renovations to specific projects like tiled walk-in showers. She also handles in-home space planning and decorating, overseeing projects from concept to completion. She also emphasizes the importance of interior design in enhancing both the functionality and personality of a space, using mood boards and tangible elements to realize a client's vision. "Hiring an interior designer most often saves clients money because it gives them a solid direction when planning out the visions that they have for their home," Skye said. "Everyone wants to love the space they are living in on a daily basis and it is 100% worth the investment to achieve that."
Skye's
outlook for 2024 trends Skye believes the trends for 2024 are going to stick within a neutral color palette but instead of all white, we will see more pops of color, as well as dark and moody tones. She says we will see less 'Farmhouse' and more 'Mid-Century Modern.'
throw pillows, wallpaper, area rugs, and decor," she said. "If color is something that scares you, start by using muted tones of green and blue—they bring the outdoors in and are now even considered neutrals!"
"Cozy spaces require lots of warm tones, so the browns, beiges, and natural wood tones will be coming back strong," she said. "Black will continue to be a strong contender in all interior and exterior finishes." She also says furniture will remain a major factor in creating style and comfort in homes, especially pieces with a pop of color. "I am most excited to see more color being brought into spaces to liven things up—color doesn't have to be overpowering, but instead can be brought in using
With the 'farmhouse' style working its way out of trend, Skye says we will see an "eclectic vibe" with the transition into more Mid-Century Modern feels. "Wall art with words is out and is now being replaced with beautiful artwork that ties your entire space together," she said. "All white kitchens will now incorporate a mix of warmer stained wood as well. Carpet in bedrooms and living rooms will continue to be replaced with solid surface flooring while warming that up with area rugs." 37
Homecare 101 By Grant Ayers
For First-Time Home Buyers Welcome to Homeownership!
Congratulations on your new home! As you embark on this exciting journey, it's essential to keep in mind that a home is not just a place to live, but a responsibility that requires care and attention. Whether you're dealing with a fixer-upper or a brand-new build, our guide for first-time home buyers is here to help you navigate the world of home maintenance with ease.
Understanding Your Home
As a first-time home buyer, getting to know the ins and outs of your property is key to maintaining and enjoying your new investment. Here are some insights and tips to help you along the way: 1. Knowing Your Home Systems Electrical System: Learn the layout of your electrical panel. Label each circuit if it’s not already done. This makes it easier to identify which circuit corresponds to which part of the house. Plumbing: Understand the basic route of your home's plumbing. Identify common issues like leaky faucets or running toilets, and learn simple fixes. Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC): Know the type of system you have (central, split, window units, etc.), and understand basic operations like changing the thermostat settings or cleaning filters.
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2. Emergency Preparedness Water Shut-Off Valve: Know where it is and how to turn it off in case of a major leak. Gas Shut-Off: Similarly, locate and understand how to turn off your gas supply in emergencies. Electrical Safety: Understand how to safely reset a tripped breaker and when it’s time to call a professional. 3. Understanding Home Structure and Home Improvement Skills Foundation Basics: Learn to identify signs of foundation issues, like cracks in walls or uneven floors. Roof Knowledge: Understand the type of your roof and signs that it may need repair, such as missing shingles or leaks. Basic Tools: Assemble a basic toolkit. Include items like a hammer, screwdrivers, pliers, a tape measure, and a level.
DIY Skills: Learn basic skills like patching drywall, fixing a dripping tap, or unclogging drains. There are plenty of online tutorials and classes for beginners. 4. Technology and Home Automation Smart Home Devices: Familiarize yourself with smart home options that can increase convenience and safety, like smart locks and lighting. Wi-Fi Network: Understand the layout of your home's Wi-Fi network and learn how to troubleshoot basic connectivity issues. 5. Safety Features Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Know where they are, test them regularly, and replace batteries as needed. Fire Extinguishers: Have at least one fire extinguisher in your home and know how to use it.
Routine Maintenance Routine maintenance is the cornerstone of keeping your home in top shape. It's about being proactive rather than reactive to issues that might arise. Let's dive deeper into what regular upkeep should look like for a first-time homeowner. 1. Detailed Regular Inspections Seasonal Checks: Each season brings different challenges for your home. For example, before winter, ensure your home is properly insulated and check if your heating system is working efficiently. In spring, look for any damage caused by winter weather, such as cracked pipes or roof damage. Moisture Control: Pay special attention to areas prone to moisture, like basements and attics. Moisture can lead to mold and structural damage. Use dehumidifiers if necessary and ensure good ventilation throughout the house. Safety First: Regularly test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, replacing batteries at least once a year. 2. Comprehensive HVAC Maintenance Seasonal Servicing: Besides changing air filters, get your HVAC system serviced at least once a year, preferably before major seasonal changes. This service includes checking thermostats, inspecting ductwork for leaks, and ensuring the system operates efficiently. If you have an outdoor AC unit, keep it clear of leaves, twigs, and other debris. This not only extends the life of your unit but also keeps it running efficiently. 3. In-Depth Cleaning Strategies Regular Deep Cleaning: Don’t underestimate the value of deep cleaning. This includes washing windows, cleaning under and
behind furniture, and shampooing carpets. It not only keeps your home looking great but also helps identify potential problems like pest infestations early. Gutter Maintenance: Clean your gutters and downspouts at least twice a year to prevent water damage. Clogged gutters can lead to water seeping into your home, causing foundation and roofing issues. Preventive Pest Control: Regularly check for signs of pests and address any issues promptly. Consider annual inspections by pest control professionals, especially if you're in an area prone to termites or other destructive pests. 4. Plumbing Check-Ups Regular Leak Checks: Periodically check under sinks, around toilets, and near major appliances for any signs of leaks. Early detection can prevent costly repairs later. Drain Maintenance: Use natural methods, like baking soda and vinegar, to keep drains clear. Avoid chemical cleaners as they can damage your pipes over time. Water Heater Care: Flush your water heater annually to remove sediment and check the pressure relief valve to ensure it's functioning properly. 5. Landscape and Exterior Care Lawn Maintenance: Regular mowing, weeding, and trimming not only improves curb appeal but also prevents pests and rodents. Exterior Surfaces: Check and maintain the exterior paint, siding, and trim. Look for cracks or peeling that might indicate a need for repair or repainting. Deck and Patio Care: Inspect and maintain outdoor decks and patios. Regular cleaning, sealing, or staining can extend their life and beauty.
Energy Efficiency
Energy efficiency is more than just a buzzword; it's a practical approach to managing your home that can lead to significant savings and a reduced carbon footprint. Here are some tips and information to help you optimize your new home for energy efficiency. 1. Upgrade to LED Lighting: One of the easiest and most cost-effective steps you can take is replacing old light bulbs with LED options. LEDs use at least 75% less energy and last 25 times longer than incandescent lighting. This simple switch can lead to substantial savings on your electricity bill. 2. Energy-Efficient Windows: If your home has older windows, consider replacing them with energy-efficient models. Look for
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double or triple-pane windows with low-E coatings and insulated frames. These windows reduce energy transfer, keeping your home more comfortable and lowering heating and cooling costs. 3. Water Usage: Consider installing lowflow showerheads and faucets. These fixtures can significantly reduce your water usage, which not only saves on your water bill but also reduces the energy used to heat the water. 4. Programmable or Smart Power Strips: Electronics often continue to draw power even when turned off. Smart power strips can cut power to these devices when they're not in use, reducing 'phantom loads' and saving energy.
5. Educate and Involve Your Family: Finally, one of the most important aspects of energy efficiency is the behavior of those living in the home. Educate your family about simple practices like turning off lights when leaving a room, taking shorter showers, and unplugging chargers when not in use. Implementing these energy-efficient practices can not only reduce your bills but also contribute to a more sustainable environment. As a homeowner, you have the power to make a significant impact through these small, thoughtful changes. Remember, a more energyefficient home is not only kinder to your wallet but also to the planet!
DIY vs. Professional Help
When you become a homeowner, you'll quickly realize that maintenance and repairs are a regular part of the experience. While there's a certain pride in handling things yourself, knowing when to call in the professionals is equally important—take a look at balancing DIY and professional help. 1. 1. Assessing Your Skills and Tools Skill Level: Before starting any project, honestly assess your skill level. If you have experience with similar tasks, DIY might be a good choice. However, if a project seems overwhelming or out of your skillset, it’s wise to hire a professional. Tools and Equipment: Do you have the necessary tools? Some home repairs require specialized tools that can be expensive to buy and impractical for a one-time use. Renting equipment is an option, but consider if the cost and learning curve are worth it compared to hiring a pro. Safety First: Projects involving electrical work, gas, or structural changes can be dangerous. Always prioritize safety over cost savings. If there's any risk involved, it’s better to leave it to
those who are trained and insured. Permits and Regulations: Some home improvement projects require permits or need to adhere to specific building codes. Professionals are familiar with these regulations and can ensure your project is compliant, avoiding potential fines or issues when you sell your home. 2. When to Call a Professional Major Electrical and Plumbing Work: Anything beyond simple tasks like changing a light fixture should be handled by a licensed electrician. Major plumbing work requires a professional touch, especially those involving main lines or water heaters. Structural Changes: Removing walls or altering the structure of your home not only requires skill but also an understanding of how it affects the integrity of the building. Roof Repairs: Due to the complexity and danger involved, roof repairs are best left to professionals. 3. Building Your Home Maintenance Network Start Early: Don’t wait
for an emergency to find a good plumber or electrician. Start building your network of trusted professionals as soon as you move in. Ask for Recommendations: Neighbors, family, and friends can be great resources for finding reliable professionals. Online reviews and local forums can also provide insights. Interview Prospects: When you’re not in a rush, you have the time to interview potential service providers, check their credentials, and compare quotes. Maintain Relationships: Once you find good service providers, keep their contact information handy. Building a relationship with them can be beneficial for future needs. In the journey of homeownership, balancing DIY projects and professional help is key. While taking on projects yourself can be rewarding and cost-effective, recognizing when a professional is needed can save you time, money, and potential headaches in the long run. Remember, the goal is to maintain and enhance your home in the most efficient and safe manner possible.
Owning a home is a rewarding experience that comes with its unique set of challenges. By staying proactive in your home's maintenance, you'll not only ensure your home’s longevity but also enhance your living experience. Remember, a well-maintained home is a happy home. Welcome to the world of smart and responsible homeownership!
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