Case Study No 3: Humboldt Lofts #701
CFG Interviews Jodi Gillespie of Jodi GIllespie Interior Design + Laurie Fleming of Fix Design Haus to run down how this loft sold within one day on the market…
THE SUBJECT
Humboldt Lofts | Mill District | Loft #701
Currently for Sale with the Cynthia Froid Group
THE INTERVIEW: Jodi Gillespie
What was the core inspiration behind the design of this home?
Functionally our intent was demonstrating how these obstructed views could be a feature, providing both interest and privacy, and not a liability. Aesthetically the goal was to meld the modern loft with the primary historic views so one could feel comfortably immersed in that unique experience.
What would you call this home's "design style”
That’s a good question. The closest elevator description might be Modern Farmhouse Loft, but this is definitely not your typical Johanna Gaines type space. Bottom line, I think the interior design style simply respects and enhances its architecture in place and time.
How were the views of the Mill District considered in this design?
In addition to the ruins, this unit has glimpses of Minneapolis’ best-lit skyscrapers, iconic Gold Medal Flour sign, Mississippi River bridges and the Guthrie “Bridge to Nowhere”. We looked for ways to experience those with functional furniture selections and placement — providing the opportunity and encouragement to linger in each moment. The flexible chaise at the window, nearby 360 swivel chairs, and comfy club chair near the terrace are prime examples.
What was the most Fun part of this design?
Hands down, the barn wood wall. We sourced the boards from 3 different lots (for varied widths and weathered tones). The experience was almost like closing a loop with the farmers/ farms that once upon a time supplied wheat to the Washburn Mill complex — each given an authentic new life and appreciation in the revitalized Mill District. The suppliers and craftsmen who made this wall a reality were amazing.
On the flip side, What was the most challenging?
The lighting: to achieve all our goals with light, we enlisted one of the best lighting designers around. In particular, he nailed the daunting technical aspects of specifying and programming so the color light accents tucked behind the columns can play off the urban landscape outside, or special event inside.
What is your favorite design element in this home?
It’s a tie between “Universe” light fixture and the steel fireplace surround. The 6’ long dining light fixture is substantial enough to fill and define the space, but delicate enough to not block views. Its angles reflect supports/stairs and other ruin accents. Whereas the fireplace dark contrasted mass accentuates the ruins view as soon as one enters the loft. From the brick on the adjacent building, to the dark horizontal steel walking shaft, they mutually benefit each other.
JODI GILLESPIE ASID, LEED AP, NCIDQ
PRINCIPAL | JODI GILLESPIE LLC INTERIOR DESIGN
jodi.gillespieASID@gmail.com
www.jginteriordesign.com
651.955.8995
STAGING WITH FIX DESIGN HAUS
We sat down with Laurie, Owner and Principal Designer of Fix Design Haus, to highlight her staging work that helped this home receive an offer within one day on the market. The Cynthia Froid Group is a huge proponent of staging, whether going big or staying small.
WHAT DID FIX DESIGN HAUS DO TO PREPARE THIS HOME FOR THE MARKET?
The homeowners left behind their very stylish furniture, and the layout itself was already beautifully designed by Jodi Gillespie Interiors. We decided to add the necessary design layer of pillows, rugs, cozy throws and surface decor to really feel cozy.
We also took the existing bookshelves from functional to more appealing by adding in a few accessories and spacing items with a designer’s eye - this helps buyers feel at home and decluttered.
WHAT WERE THE BIGGEST ITEMS NEEDED TO MAKE THIS SPACE POP FOR STAGING?
The biggest reason we were needed at Humboldt Lofts #701 was to swap out some of the master bedroom furniture. We see this all the time. Decorating dollars seem to go everywhere except the owner’s bedroom! And life happens and before you know it and you sometimes forget that the owner’s bedroom is the one room that really needs to exude luxury and have a comfy-yet-styled appearance.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE ELEMENT OF THIS HOME’S DESIGN AND HOW DID YOU PLAY OFF OF THAT?
The condo’s highlight really is the open floor plan and spectacular sweeping city views. We wanted a calm and comfortable design plan to let the great architecture and materials - steel, concrete, etc take center stage. We were the supporting role to the great city scape of Minneapolis and design work of Jodi Gillespie. Where all three elements worked beautifully and helped this owner receive an offer within ONE day on the market!
WHAT ARE SOME OF FIX DESIGN HAUS’ SERVICES?
We offer design selections and project management services when a home needs a few updates or a minor renovation. Paint, flooring, countertops, lighting, hardware, appliances, etc.
WHAT DO YOU OFFER WITH VACANT HOMES AND CONDOS?
We have a 12,000sf warehouse full of trend furniture and accessories and we can fully furnish a home in one day! This service is available when a home is unoccupied.
WHAT ABOUT WITH OCCUPIED HOMES AND CONDOS?
If a home is occupied, we can offer a complete DIY consultation plan to guide the homeowner in preparing their home to list. And we can do the shopping for them if they need to purchase new bedding, pillows, lamps, etc.
Who would find this amount of staging beneficial vs a full remodel?
It really depends on what a home needs. What will buyers like and not like in the seller's home? What can I do to change the less desirable features? What will that cost? And will the seller see a good return on investment? These questions are all part of my analysis and the answers are almost a prescription for what the house needs to attract top dollar.
WHAT DO YOU FEEL IS THE BIGGEST BENEFIT OF HOME STAGING?
The biggest benefit of staging: there might be a couple! Number one is we can showcase a lifestyle that is on-trend and bring in furniture that perfectly fits each room in terms of style, size and color. Staging can make everything old appear new and it can solve so many problems that a layout might present - all in one day!
CFG’s Take: STAGE STAGE STAGE (if you can!) we highly recommend staging from small to large scale where needed because the results speak louder than words.