Spring Planting: Trees from REFINED

Spring has finally arrived in the Twin Cities, and we couldn't be more excited! Besides our eagerness to get back outside to enjoy the warm sun and fresh air, we've been impatiently awaiting spring because it means it's time to plant some trees.

A few months ago, we introduced you to our new community tree planting program, Trees from REFINED. Alongside our partner at Southview Design, our mission is to create a thriving network of donated and planted trees in our community. We want to give back to our community and help sustain the Twin Cities' beautiful natural tree canopy for years to come.

This year, we're giving away and planting 100 new trees together in the Edina community. Our only major roadblock? The longest winter in recent memory has continually pushed back our planting schedule! (Seriously, April blizzards? C'mon, mother nature!)

Now that the snow is all nearly melted, it's go-time at long last, and we're ready to plant some trees! If you live in Edina, look for the Southview crew out planting in your neighborhood soon. And don't forget to follow us on social media to get updates along the way.

Lastly, if you're only hearing about this program now and want to learn more, please visit the Trees from REFINED page for more information. You can also sign-up on our waitlist and be the first to get details about next year's new trees.

Entertaining Must-Haves

Your home is your haven - a sanctuary from the outside world. Designing the place where you can kick off your shoes, exhale, and relax at the end of the day is our passion. However, there's another function of the home we may like planning for just as much: entertaining guests!

Creating spaces to host with hospitality is a design goal for many of our clients. From cozy media rooms to classy bars to elegant dining rooms to open kitchens perfectly suited for weekend brunch - we've built it all. Scroll further to catch a glimpse of some of our favorite entertaining-ready homes.

Home Happy Hour
Why grab Friday night drinks at a loud and crowded bar when you could mingle with friends over a cocktail in this stunning living room?

Kid-Friendly Hideout
Every home needs a place where the kiddos can run free while the adults enjoy some quiet conversation - this playful lower level is just the spot!

Weekend Brunch Spot
Whether you prefer pancakes with the family or quiche and mimosas with friends, a bright, open kitchen is ideal for leisurely Saturday plans.

Movie Night with Style
This lower level media room and bar/buffet are all set for major movie marathons, cozy parties, epic game nights, or Friday evening sleepovers!

Elegant Dinner Parties
What's a home without a sophisticated (or casual - your choice!) dining room for hosting lovely dinner parties or festive holiday meals?

Comfy Master Bedrooms

Today on the blog we're about all things restful, soft, and welcoming - this is our ode to comfy master bedrooms. Historically, bedroom trends haven't always centered around comfort. Look no further than those formal 50's era single beds or the bizarre waterbed craze of 70's and 80's.

Current master bedroom style focuses much more on creating a balance of sophistication and serenity. Our clients want a peaceful getaway, a private haven that recharges them after a busy day. This call for relaxing spaces often means simple is best. Colors, textures, finishes, and architectural elements all filter through this lens of comfort.

The centerpiece of these blissful bedrooms is a big, beautiful bed. From there, plenty of bright natural daylight and a cozy nighttime reading nook are both necessities. After that, it's all about personal taste. Maybe you need an extra lounging area for lazy mornings or an elegant decked-out vanity for weekend primping.

If you're dreaming about giving your master bedroom a fresh look, look no further than our clients' stunning spaces. Each of these lovely bedrooms below is sure to provide ample design inspiration!

Spring Parade Home: Parkside Cottage

Spring Parade Model #433 - 5928 Oaklawn Avenue, Edina
February 24th through March 25th – Noon-6 pm Thursday through Sundays

The weather is starting to thaw, and Minnesotan's are getting antsy, which means it's time for the Spring Parade of Homes. Sure, snow may still cover the ground for weeks (or months), but that doesn't have to inhibit us from getting out and having some fun!

If design-gazing and urban exploring happen to be your idea of an afternoon well spent, then might we suggest visiting Parade Model #433? This lovely five-bedroom, five-bathroom Edina home is the perfect blend of warm cottage style, unique finishes, and a touch of trends.

The moment you walk through the front door, effortless elegance and bright natural light welcome you. However, the real star of the main level is the gourmet kitchen - followed closely by the stately study or organized, shiplap-covered mudroom.

Upstairs, the master suite feels more like a charming B&B than a bedroom. From the oversized, spa-style shower to the Juliet balcony overlooking nearby Pamela Park, calling it an everyday getaway is an understatement. Down the hall, the whole family can make use of the open, multipurpose craft room/homework hub/play area/upstairs lounge - the sky's the limit!

Honestly, we could go on at length about this beautiful family home, but why continue when you could just see it for yourself? Consider yourself invited to stop by, ask questions, open cabinets, and see what we've been up to all winter!