Silent Rivers Design + Build created this bookish nook to tell the story of its owners’ eclectic interests. See more below. Photo: Paul Gates Photography
Kitchen & Dining: Large
Gold: Johnson Construction
The expansive walnut cabinetry and dark stone features of this kitchen create a luxurious, modern aesthetic that still retains livability and personality. “With this home, we leaned into contrast — steel and walnut, light and shadow, mountain lodge warmth and modern minimalism,” said Anna Johnson, the designer and project coordinator. The large, multifunction island creates space for seating, storage and meal prep, making it the perfect place for hosting and daily use. Wood tones flow into the dining room and mirror the forest landscaping around the property, visible through floor-to-ceiling windows in the dining space.
With collaboration from Iowa Stone Supply, Moehl Millwork, Pella Windows and Apex Building Supply. Photo: Justin Salem Meyer & Steve Cannon
Silver (pictured above): Embarq Signature Homes
Photo: Adam Davis
Bronze: Hartman Spiller/Oakwood Builders Group
Kitchen & Dining: Small
Gold: Serenity Homes/Green Door Home Staging
“We’ve shaped this dining area to be a warm, welcoming space where everyone can feel a sense of calm,” said Ryan and Holly Baumgartel of Serenity Homes. The layout allows for easy flow between the kitchen and dining space, with connection to the living room for seamless living. Despite the small footprint, large tables create plenty of seating, and soft lighting keeps the space intimate and relaxed. “The Japandi-inspired design style in this home was a huge hit. The clean lines, calming color palette and intentional use of natural materials really resonated with buyers looking for a fresh, timeless aesthetic,” said Ryan and Holly. Japandi, a style that blends of Japanese minimalism and Scandinavian coziness, is spreading far beyond the countries that inspired it.
With collaboration from CKF, Fox Countertops, The Flooring Guys, Better Built Floors, LVL Construction and AB Painting. Photo: Golden Photos & Dynamic Motion
Silver: Woodhouse
Bronze: Jeid Studio
Indoor Living Space
Gold: Silent Rivers Design + Build
This remodel blends modern minimalism with the homeowners’ passion for music, art and literature. “The physical challenge was to integrate a two-story bookshelf into a 17-foot-tall living room and create an intimate reading space,” said Chaden Halfhill, owner of Silent Rivers Design + Build. To maximize a functional floorplan, a sculptural spiral staircase connects the main level to the upstairs bedrooms, offering a focal point and vertical circulation. “This streamlined library creates a cohesive integration of aesthetics and functional space without distracting from the home’s contemporary basis,” Halfhill said.
Photo: Paul Gates Photography
Silver (pictured above): Johnson Construction
Photo: Justin Salem Meyer & Steve Cannon
Bronze: Dynasty Homes
Indoor Entertainment
Gold: Mainbuilt Custom Homes
Tucked behind the main residence, this detached auxiliary space was designed as both a functional home office and a lively family retreat. The upper level offers a spacious work environment filled with natural light, while the lower level opens to the pool and backyard for effortless indoor-outdoor living. A golf simulator adds a playful touch, blending recreation with relaxation. “To maintain a cohesive aesthetic with the main home, we used the same flooring, hardware, and a consistent monochromatic color palette,” said Kari Wolder, an interior designer on the project. At the center, a large open kitchen anchors the space, allowing guests to flow easily between the various activity zones while staying connected to the heart of the space.
With collaboration from Hallmark Flooring, Five G’s Construction, Broadway Builders, Lancaster, Minnesota Cabinets, Fox Countertops, Ferguson, The Indoor Golf Shop, Beisser Lumber Company, Kurrent Electric and Technology By Design. Photo: Brooke Pavel
Silver: Teal Creek Homes
Bronze: Kimberley Development
Bedroom
Gold: Kimberley Development
This primary bedroom feels like a refreshing stay at a Nordic spa resort. The sleek wood along the floor and ceiling are mellowed out with soft layers of pillows and blankets, and warm-toned textures throughout. A floor-to-ceiling stone fireplace and natural light from an abundance of windows create a connection to the property’s natural surroundings. “This luxury primary bedroom merges modern rustic aesthetics with warm, organic elements to create an inviting, comforting space,” design coordinator Rylee Hansen said.
With collaboration from Moehl Millwork, Morrissey Carpentry, Nebraska Furniture Mart and Legendary Painting. Photo: Andrea Shandri
Silver: Jeid Studio
Bronze: Casee Burgason Interior Design
Bath
Gold: Design2Build
If Marie Antoinette were alive today, we have a hunch her bathroom would look just like this. The striking floor-to-ceiling Palladian window and the homeowner’s cherished chandelier create a grand focal point that exudes luxury throughout the entire space. “The result is a sophisticated blend of high style and thoughtful functionality, turning a dated bath into a statement-making sanctuary,” lead designer Sharissa Johnson said. The room also features heated marble-patterned floors with a mosaic inlay, a private water closet with a custom toilet and bidet, and a freestanding tub set against a dramatic marble column.
With collaboration from Sender’s Construction, Fox Countertops, MRC Cabinetry, Porch Light Woodworking and Diamond Tile. Photo: Shandri Photo & Media
Silver: South Of Grand Studio
Bronze: Caliber Homes
Focus Space
Gold: Serenity Homes/Green Door Home Staging
“Moody home offices are having a major moment,” according to Ryan and Holly Baumgartel of Serenity Homes. The color-drenched interior still feels open and airy thanks to the soaring 18-foot ceilings and natural light. Exposed wood beams add architectural interest and provide a warm, grounding contrast. “To honor the homeowner’s design style, we used vintage-inspired lighting, antique-style cabinet hardware and classic crystal door knobs,” the Baumgartels said. The result is a modern, functional office space that also has depth and drama.
With collaboration from CKF, The Flooring Guys, Better Built Floors, Moehl Millwork, Sherwin Williams and AB Painting. Photo: Golden Photos
Silver: Dwell Home Furnishings & Interior Design
Bronze: Meghan Blum Interiors/Oakwood Builders Group
Utility Zone
Gold: Kimberley Development
Inside this elevated laundry and mudroom you’ll find ultra-functional features blended seamlessly into a clean, modern design. The cabinets, brass hardware, warm wood tones and sleek tile backsplash anchor the space with traditional-style warmth, while a large window over the utility sink brightens the space. Detailed millwork on the entryway bench integrates beauty into a practical feature. “This is the perfect space for anyone who values clean, organized and purposeful spaces,” design coordinator Rylee Hansen said. The space is thoughtfully arranged to accommodate chores, entry traffic and storage without feeling cramped.
With collaboration from Nebraska Furniture Mart, Moehl Millwork, Factory Direct Appliance, Tile Shop, Green Door Home Staging, Legendary Painting, Kitchen and Bath Company, and Echo Lighting. Photo: Andrea Shandri Photo & Media
Silver: Meghan Blum Interiors
Bronze: Design2Build/K&V Homes
View all Interiors finalist photos here.
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