Design Trends: Elevated Light Fixtures

When it comes to foundational design elements, it doesn't get more essential than light fixtures. Unless you plan on exclusively keeping daylight hours, you need good lighting throughout your space.

However, recent light fixture trends revolve around much more than pure function. Lighting has become everything from a focal point to a playful accent to bold design statement in modern homes.

Like icing on a cake, light fixtures can be the jewelry of a home. They elevate and finish spaces and can add a flash of color, glitz, texture, pattern, repetition, or style to any room. In the hands of a talented designer, light fixtures are another valuable tool for creating memorable spaces.

Interested in exploring lighting trends? Scroll below to see our favorite client light fixture choices!

Trees from REFINED: A Closer Glimpse

We've written a lot about our new giving program, Trees From REFINED, on this site the past few months. Our team is so passionate about this project - we're anxious to spread the word and get everyone in our community involved!

Today, instead of continuing to describe Trees From REFINED to you, we wanted to show a glimpse of what we've been doing. Watch the video above to learn more about how and why we're planting a thriving new network of trees in the Twin Cities.

As always, our deepest thanks to our wonderful friends at Southview Design for partnering with us through every step of this project. We love working with your dedicated crew!

Summer Fun: Family-Friendly Edina Events

School's out for the summer, and the warm weather has arrived! Minnesotans know to savor summer while it's here - it won't be long before we have to bundle up and hibernate again. (Sorry, too soon!)

Want the scoop on the best family-friendly events and activities in Edina and the surrounding area? Read on below for our favorite parks, events, places, and ideas for creating summer family fun!

Outdoor Fun and Lake Life
If laying on the beach, swimming, fishing, exploring a Rose Garden, biking, taking a walk, picnicking, hammocking, or renting a paddleboat or canoe is your cup of tea, then you must visit Lake Harriet Park! Kiddos can also enjoy slides, diving boards, a water playground, and surf the wave simulator at the Edina Aquatic Center. Lastly, work on your swing or putting skills together at Braemar Golf Course!

Arts and Entertainment
Want to watch a movie under the stars or hear live music this summer? Through June, July, and August, the city of Edina is hosting outdoor family-friendly films at beautiful Centennial Lakes Park. In nearby South Minneapolis, Lake Harriet Park also hosts all sorts of live music and movies as well. (Psst: don't forget to grab dinner or snacks at Bread & Pickle; yum!)

Festivals and Events
Want to shop till you drop, walk with the Mayor, or enjoy a Family Fun Night? Check out Crazy Days or Open Streets on 50th and Frace for shopping, food, music, and more! Get to know your local government leaders on the City of Edina's monthly, Walk With the Mayor. Or drop in on the city's monthly Family Fun Nights at rotating Edina parks, they're free and open to everyone!

Health and Fitness
Lastly, if teaching your kids healthy habits is part of your summer agenda, there are lots of options available! Centennial Lakes hosts a weekly Farmers Market on Thursdays from 3 -7 pm where you can shop and explore fresh produce together. Edina is also hosting new Fitness in the Parks events this summer, which includes free exercise classes throughout the city. We hope you take advantage of these fun and free family events this summer - maybe our team will see you at one of them!

Design Trends: Playful Kids Bathrooms

When it comes to personalized design, we can think of few places more suited for experimentation than kids bathrooms. Because these spaces are hidden away and not often used by guests, kids bathrooms are a perfect playground for fresh and fun trends!

Our clients are looking to build homes that reflect their unique families and style - down to their littlest members. After all, children are just as impacted by their surroundings as adults! Starting the day in a bright, stimulating space inspires their growing minds.

Want to know our practices for creating a fun and functional kids bathroom? We seek out products and finishes that are built to stand the test of time (and can withstand a little abuse). Another focus is accessibility; kiddos need to be able to reach those sinks, knobs, etc. Lastly, we highly recommend adding plenty of extra storage and double sinks if you've got the room for them.

In search of even more kids bathroom inspiration? Scroll below to browse through a few of our favorite playful and practical bathrooms for little ones!