As designers, we always joke that we suffer from “the cobbler’s kids who have no shoes” syndrome. This is especially true in my case, as it seems like my little loft is a constant work in progress. I’m a little bit of a perfectionist in the sense that I like everything in my home to be special/meaningful, which is painfully unrealistic. Still, I’ve managed to gather up a few special treasures in the living room: a mirrored vintage lamp that I scored at a local antiques shop, my long-sought-after sectional (a concession to my husband, Brian, who has to put up with my constant furniture re-arranging), a side table that has been in my family since I was a kid, and some favorite antique books. The artwork over the sofa is especially meaningful because it was our first major art purchase, and it took a long time to pull the trigger. We were drawn to the James Mclaughlin Way canvas from the very first time we saw it – a scene with rolling storm clouds over golden fields – one that reminded us of everything we love about Nebraska. The blue and orange color palette happened by accident, really…and I’m sure it will change again soon. And, of course…I’m still searching for that elusive, perfect area rug…

- Melanie