Edina - April 2026

A THREAD OF KELLY GREEN

DESIGNER TIM RICKER WEAVES A TAPESTRY OF LUXURY USING A BELOVED HUE

GOLDEN VALLEY, EDEN PRAIRIE, MINNETONKA, PRIOR LAKE AND PLYMOUTH

Unique solutions for living.

The Cedar Roof Man

STRAIGHT TALK FROM STEVE KUHL

Let’s face it. Cedar roofs look great but owning one is a little scary. “Has it been damaged by hail?” “Will it blow off in a storm?” “I hear something chewing up there!” But despite what you may hear, your cedar roof is still one of the most beautiful and long-lasting products on the market. The only catch is you have take care of it.

That’s where I come in. My free, written estimate includes a thorough analysis of your roof. Bringing over 25 years of experience to the table, I will evaluate its’ condition to determine whether or not maintenance, repairs or replacement is the best option for you. Worst case scenario you get a free inspection from a true expert. Best case, we work our magic on your roof and add years to its lifespan.

In fact, Kuhl’s Contracting is looked to for the evaluation and restoration of cedar roofs by more insurance companies, home inspectors, realtors and architects than any other company in Minnesota. Not to brag, but we are pretty awesome. Don’t take my word for it. Check out our talents at www.kuhlscontracting.com. Or ask around. We have probably done work for someone you know.

I started this company in 1987. Since that time we have worked on thousands of homes around the Twin Cities. My approach to business has never wavered. Be honest, be reliable and do great work. As a result our list of happy clients grows daily.

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FROM THE EDITOR

An anonymous quote perfectly sums up our semiannual homes issue: “Home is a refuge from the world, a place where we can be ourselves.” It reminded me of a conversation with interior designer Tim Ricker, who shared the story of a client who gave him carte blanche in designing a home from the ground up. The only request: incorporate their favorite color, Kelly green (also known to locals as Edina green). The result is a breathtaking homage to our hometown hue. It’s a stunning blend of luxury and local pride (page 34).

We also explore how to approach decorating a second home. How does the design of a lake house compare to that of our main residence? What happens when the same designer takes on both projects (page 16)? And a local artist lovingly creates home portraits to immortalize your abode (page 12).

Speaking of projects close to the heart, one local family has devoted nearly 30 years to guiding the Edina debate team to greatness. We can’t wait for you to meet the Schmitts and see how their passion shapes the next generation of great debaters (page 14).

Passion projects can sometimes turn into businesses. Local couple Michelle and Brian Platt started Jam Packd Jams, a healthy jam full of protein. They even snagged celebrity Howie Mandel to be their spokesperson. We take a look at how they found naturally sweet success (page 52).

I hope this issue ignites your passions and inspires an adventurous new project—whether within your home, your life, or both. May this April energize your momentum and spark fresh, bold ideas.

Feroza Mehta feroza@localmedia.co

VOL. 21 NO. 9

April 2026

PUBLISHER

Susan Isay

EDITOR

Feroza Mehta

MANAGING CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Renée Stewart-Hester

MANAGING EDITOR

Hailey Almsted

DIGITAL EDITOR

Madeline Kopiecki

COPY EDITORS

Kellie Doherty and Sherri Hildebrandt

STAFF WRITERS

Mollee Francisco, Emily Gedde, Jennifer Pitterle, Alexandra Tostrud and Paige Udermann

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Sarah Davis, Emily Deutschman, Taylor Ellingson, Daniel Green, Gregory Rich, Twila Singh, Maureen Millea Smith, and Laura Westlund

DIGITAL INTERN

Danielle Gallus

EDITORIAL INTERNS

Abigail Larson, Diane Meyer, Kate Thompson and Avery Vrieze

EDITORIAL ADVISORY BOARD

Daphne Edwards, Edina Public Schools ; Greg Hoyt, Gather Venture Group ; Shelly Loberg, Edina Chamber of Commerce ; Nicole Meehan, Edina Education Fund ; Rebecca Sorensen, 50th & France Business Association ; Kelly Vickers, Zimmer Design ; and Annette Wildenauer, Design Mode Studios

SENIOR MANAGING ART DIRECTOR

Sarah Dovolos

ART DIRECTOR

Allison Nolden

ASSOCIATE ART DIRECTOR

Jamie Klang

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Yaz Lo

LEAD STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

Chris Emeott

PRODUCTION DIRECTOR

Brittni Dye

PRODUCTION MANAGER

Lisa Stone

PRODUCTION COORDINATOR

Mimi Coz

SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

Laura Bjorgo, Cynthia Hamre and Sara Johnson

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

Rochita Chatterjee and Gina Neumann

PRESIDENT Pete Burgeson

The Art of the Melt

April may be Grilled Cheese Month, but in Edina, we’ve elevated these dairy delights into a humble melt that is worth celebrating year-round.

Bojae’s Ham & Cheese sandwich features sliced ham with melted brie and Dijon mayonnaise that’s served on a warmed baguette. bojaes.com

Convention Grill’s Grilled Cheese Club has three slices of whole wheat bread and American, Muenster and smoky cheddar cheese. conventiongrillmn.com

If you’re looking for a side of tomato soup to go along with your sandwich, try Red Cow and Tavern 23. Red Cow’s grilled cheese has cheddar, Gruyére and smoked Gouda on sourdough bread and comes with barbecue chips. Tavern 23’s Grilled Cheese on Sourdough features cheddar and provolone with arugula. redcowmn.com; tavern23mn.com

TJ’s of Edina’s Grilled Cheese on Sourdough comes in two versions—onions and tomatoes or with bacon and ham. For vegetarians, the Veggie Cheese Melt has avocado, cucumbers, mushrooms, red onions, spinach, Swiss cheese, tomatoes and spinach served on grilled multigrain bread. tjsofedina.com —Feroza Mehta

A World of Magic and Heart

Magic Gems is Edina author Payal Doshi’s newest endeavour. The four-book series is published by Scholastic and comes out April 21. Doshi invites young readers to Elementis, a richly imagined world inspired by the natural beauty and emotional truths of our own. The series centers on four friends who each wield a magical gem tied to the elements—Lily (water), Rio (earth), Scarlet (fire) and Imara (air). With themes of friendship, courage and empathy at its core, Magic Gems emphasizes the power of teamwork. To learn more about Doshi’s personal journeys at the core of the series, go to edinamag.com. —Feroza Mehta

Solace in Stories

When an advanced reader’s copy of Soyangri Book Kitchen arrived in our mailbox, my husband picked it up and finished reading it by the next day. He is a devoted fan of Korean dramas. This bestselling Korean novel is the debut from Kim Jee Hye. It was translated by Shanna Tan. My husband loved it, as did I, and you will too.

Yoojin sells her business and is uncertain of what she will do with her time and money. She leaves Seoul, Korea, on holiday to see Mount Maisan and its beautiful sunsets. Her trip was inspired by a novel about an English woman who moves to the country to open an inn. When Yoojin stops at a waffle shop in the village of Soyangri, she overhears two middle-aged men bickering over a property that is for sale. Yoojin interrupts their conversation to say that she would like to look at the property. She buys it and builds the Book Kitchen, a place for people looking not only for books, but for coffee, events and food. Around the Book Kitchen, she builds three buildings where visitors can stay. The chapters in the novel are structured around the visitors. Like Yoojin, each of her guests has a story reflected in their decision to visit the village. The reader moves through the seasons as guests come and go.

Maureen Millea Smith is a retired Hennepin County librarian.

Brushstrokes of Love

Jackie Dummer creates keepsakes of meaningful places.

By Emily Gedde

For an Edina artist, making something meaningful for others fills her bucket. Jackie Dummer uses her talent and passion to paint home portraits, preserving memories for people to last a lifetime.

“After my kids were grown and I had more time on my hands, I wanted to get back to my art, and I’m all about making something for someone,” Dummer says. She started with pet portraits and now does cabins, churches and landscapes—anything meaningful that holds a special story in someone’s life. “The first house I did was the home I grew up in, in Ames, Iowa,” she says. “It was an old Tudorstyle home, and I just loved it.”

With a background in graphic design and a love of using watercolors, Dummer says homes hold important chapters in people’s lives. She’s painted first homes, places where people have met, churches that have been the site of weddings or baptisms and more. “Every structure is so deeply meaningful. Once you paint something, it evokes memories and thoughts about what went on underneath those roofs,” she says.

To paint a structure, Dummer requires several photographs (if possible) of the site and talks to her clients about details beyond what the camera may have captured. She says some clients want flowers that once grew near a home or a dog on the front porch.

Stephanie Schoening of Edina is a longtime client and friend of Dummer’s. She credited Dummer’s attention to detail as being one of the main reasons she loves her work and often gifts the paintings to family. “She painted the church where my grandchild’s

Local artist Jackie Dummer uses watercolors to immortalize special places, whether they are barns, churches, homes or any other place that is near and dear to people’s hearts. She enjoys turnings clients’ favorite spots on Earth into timeless works of art.

“Every structure is so deeply meaningful.

Once you paint something, it evokes memories and thoughts about what went on underneath those roofs.”

Jackie Dummer, artist

baptism took place. The church has a clock on it, and she put the time of the baptism on the clock,” Schoening says. “We had her do the baptism invitations using that portrait. That one has been the most special to me.”

Dummer says her portraits typically are sized 5x7, 8x10 or 11x14 inches, which are the easiest to frame. She uses her design background to turn her portraits into other keepsakes like invitations or ornaments.

The artist has a layered approach to her work, beginning with pencil sketches to capture small details like bricks and rocks. After sketching, she goes over the pencil with ink. She then builds depth with watercolor to bring the piece to life. The results often move clients to tears, which Dummer jokes is a good thing because that means her work touches them.

“When my work is meaningful to people, that means everything to me,” she says. “I go right into it as if I’m part of their story.”

For Dummer, painting homes and special places is more than art. It’s a unique way to preserve a place into a keepsake that can be enjoyed for generations.

Jackie Dummer

jkdummer.com

@jackie.dummer

worked

last summer, and sat all winter. A quick tune-up helps it start the season strong.

The Edina Debate Machine

The Schmitt family’s long coaching tenure has built a foundation for sustained success.

By Feroza Mehta

Valerie Schmitt has debate in her blood. The Edina High School senior is the president of the debate team and a winner of state and national tournaments. She is the youngest of three children in the Edina family of Lynn and Joe Schmitt, who have been part of the debate coaching staff since the 1990s. “I like to joke that there are four kids in the Schmitt family,” Valerie says. “There’s Al, there’s Danielle, there’s me, Valerie, and then there’s the debate team. And my dad’s favorite is not one of the humans. It’s the debate team. He’s a father to everybody.”

For decades, debate has been woven into every part of the Schmitt family’s life. Joe and Lynn were Policy debaters in high school—Joe at Apple Valley High School and Lynn at Wayzata High School. After graduating in the 1980s, both continued to Concordia College in Moorhead. After Joe finished law school in Ann Arbor, Michigan, they found themselves back in Minnesota

and eventually settled in Edina where Lynn was the head coach of Edina High School’s team from 1993–2002. Joe was there from 1999–2007, when the couple stepped away entirely to raise their three children.

Still, debate never fully left the household. Lynn returned behind the scenes in 2017, handling administrative support, finances and team communication. Joe officially returned as head coach in 2020, fueling a period of remarkable growth in the team, which doubled in size to about 130 students across debate formats (Congress, LincolnDouglas, Policy and Public Forum) with numerous state and national rankings.

At the core of the Schmitts’ success is an unconventional philosophy. “Almost all debate head coaches focus on varsity,” Joe says. “We focus on the novice.” New debaters are carefully trained and supported, with each debate category led by a college-age coach who excelled in high school debate.

“If you get people really excited and you train them well as a novice, then they will progress,” Joe says.

They also value team players. Varsity students help younger debaters, and sometimes topics in Policy will end up in LincolnDouglas, so the teams share research. That approach resonates with students like Aditi Jha, a junior and co-captain of the LincolnDouglas team. She remembers her novice state tournament and how varsity debaters attended to cheer her on and help out.

“I love the team aspect. I looked up to the upperclassmen. Our coaches always emphasize making the team feel bonded and like a family,” she says, noting that debate isn’t about being loud or extroverted. “Anyone can be good at debate if they want to be. It’s really the research and the support you get.”

That support extends well beyond technique. Chloe Meredith, a senior and captain of the Public Forum team, credits Joe

with believing in every student. “He never doubted my skills as a debater,” Chloe says. “That’s probably why we are the team we are because of Joe’s belief that every debater can be successful.”

Ellie Shipp, captain of the Policy team, remembers being intimidated at her first practice. “I wanted to leave,” Ellie says. “But as I learned more, I realized Policy gave me the opportunity to go all in on a topic and know it incredibly well.” Debate, she says, has challenged her academically in ways school never could.

Valerie and her parents also credit the team coaches, who are usually college students who loved debate in high school. They dedicate their time on evenings and weekends. Valerie says one even stayed up until 3 a.m. with the team, making sure they were ready for a state tournament. “They call us the Edina Debate Machine,” Valerie says. “We never sleep.” She describes debate as intellectually addictive and deeply collaborative. “Debate teaches you to look at the world and want to understand it better,” she says.

That curiosity, Joe believes, is the point. Research from the Minnesota Urban Debate League shows debate participation improves test scores and grade point averages. But for the Schmitts, the impact is more human. “What we do here has a huge impact on 100 to 150 kids every year,” Joe says. “That’s why I do this.”

Decades into their own debate journey, Joe and Lynn are still shaping arguments, but more importantly, they’re shaping thinkers.

Edina Debate & Speech edinaschools.org

@edinaforensics

Take a deep dive into the decor differences between lake homes and primary residences.

Written by Feroza Mehta —

When it comes to designing a second home, whether it’s a cabin, lake house or a blend of both, it can be a unique challenge. One couple from the Interlachen Park neighborhood chose a timeless approach for their second house on Sugar Lake. Their designer, Bhavana Bhimavarapu of O’Hara Interiors, gave it a fresh, elevated lake style twist. We had the opportunity to see the couple’s main home and lake house, offering a fascinating look at how a designer approaches two very different spaces. Bhimavarapu shares her insight into preparing a lake house that reflects both function and a family’s love of water.

Left: Designer Bhavana Bhimavarapu says that the owners have a deep love of water and they asked that the color blue be incorporated into the lake home’s kitchen. “We picked a color that works harmoniously with the lake outside,” Bhimavarapu says. She prioritized cleanable, durable and low-maintenance materials throughout the lake home. “The counter stools are finished in high-quality faux leather for added resilience … For the flooring, we chose matte engineered hardwood throughout the main living areas for reliable, long-term performance,” she says. Right: In contrast, the primary residence’s kitchen is white with gold accents.

How did working on the primary residence help in your design of the lake home? I love to get to know the clients, down to all the tiny details before designing a home for them. For me, it is very important to know how they live, what they like and what is important. All of those pieces are incorporated into the design. I also look to see if there are any specific colors they keep returning to or if I can push their boundaries to see how they react before putting the design all together. While these clients gave me free reign on design decisions for both the homes, their primary home is more grounded in terms of color or the overall feel. In comparison, the lake home’s main design intent was to have fun.

How do homeowners’ day-to-day patterns differ in a second home compared to their primary residence, and how does that influence your work? Clients always express a slightly different version of themselves in a lake home. I love the bold touches in both the accessories and the larger statement pieces, and how the design takes risks with so many of the materials while still prioritizing

a sense of calm and comfort. When designing their primary homes, most of the design intent is long-term function that caters to practical needs. However, in designing secondary homes, I see that clients are more comfortable with us and our process and often are ready to trust us to go in a riskier, more creative direction. They’re living the lake life where the design feels casual and connected, yet it stands the test of time.

Top left and right: The lake home’s living areas were designed with materials and finishes that hold up to high-traffic, sandy-feet environments. “All indoor upholstery features Crypton-grade fabrics,” Bhavana Bhimavarapu says. “Many of the outdoor pieces are rated for all-weather use to ensure they stand the test of time. For the flooring, we selected textured tile to improve durability and provide traction after coming in from the lake.” The lake home design details cater to easy, flowing, multiuse spaces. “I incorporated extra comfortable and cozy elements,” she says. “I also might find places for fun textures with unexpected, rich colors.” Bottom left and right: The primary residence’s living areas.

What spaces become more important in a lake home that might be secondary in a primary residence? In a lake home, shared spaces take precedence. That might be flexible and multiuse guestrooms, bunkrooms, bathrooms with easy access to the lake and outdoor or screened porches.

How do hosting and gathering needs differ between a main home and a lake home? I think this can be achieved by creating different zones in the home. For example, in this lake home, we have multiple entertainment zones. There is that big kitchen and sizable pantry, but there is also a bar area with additional storage and beverage refrigeration to accommodate larger groups. Easy connectivity between indoor and outdoor spaces also helps a good flow around the home. Additional fun spaces, like bunk rooms, smaller nooks or lounging

areas, can accommodate large, multigenerational groups or overlapping family and friends all at once.

Are there layout differences you always consider for lake homes, such as mudrooms or outdoor-living-friendly entries? There are definitely modifications that are more appropriate for a lake house than a city home. I prioritize direct access to the lake, ventilated cubbies, maximizing storage wherever we can (like bench seating with hidden storage), durable nonslip flooring materials, hooks for towels, etc. I also often plan to include accessible outdoor storage for lake recreation equipment or toys.

How does storage planning differ between a home used year-round and one used seasonally? When designing a lake house, I consider everyday organization and seasonal

Left: The lake home’s entryway was designed with durability and space in mind. Large foyers make an excellenet drop zone for unloading luggage and groceries. “When designing a lake house, I consider everyday organization and seasonal living needs,” Bhavana Bhimavarapu says. Right: In the primary residence, a smaller dining table supports quieter, everyday moments while the lake home embraces its role as a retreat with a larger table meant for entertaining and shared meals.

Top: Designer Bhavana Bhimavarapu says the connection to water is seen in almost every room of the lake home. “The fun color in the laundry room, the warm wood touches in the bathroom,” she says. Bottom: In contrast, the primary residence’s bathroom is a pristine white room with gold accents.

O’Hara Interiors oharainteriors.com @ohara_interiors

Interlachen House Builder: Knight Construction/Design knightremodeling.com

Lake House Builder: JPC Custom Homes jpccustomhomes.com

living needs. In a bunkroom, drawers and closets can hold extra linens for hosting. Built-in cubbies or benches with washable baskets and durable flooring keep hightraffic areas organized. And creating a designated drop zone makes it easy to unload groceries and supplies when preparing for larger gatherings.

What design choices help simplify the seasonal opening and closing of a second home? A well-designed laundry space with double washer–dryers and ample hanging storage turns the home into an entertainer’s paradise, making it easy to reset b et ween visits or after large gatherings. Automated systems, including motorized window treatments and app-based access, allow you to manage the home at the push of a button while keeping security top of mind. I also simplify mechanical rooms, so plumbing shutoffs and key systems are easy to reach. And throughout the home, weather-resistant, low-maintenance materials hold up year-round.

POINT OF LIGHT

Feroza Mehta

A local business is illuminating an element of design.

What if we view light the way we view paint and interior design? What if it is more than just flipping a switch? Inside Aurora One Lighting’s west Edina showroom, a sleek touchscreen set above an elegant silver panel invites visitors to choose from modes like “Energize,” “Entertain,” “Relax,” and more. These keypads are the gateway to a technology—integrated with audiovisual systems—that allows homeowners to adjust light levels, music and other elements from a single interface. While the setup may evoke the futuristic feel of a Star Trek spacecraft, the goal is practical rather than theatrical: to show how lighting can influence mood, support one’s daily routine and tie together different systems within a home.

“It’s not just lighting,” says Jessica Betzold, client experience and marketing manager for Aurora One Lighting and its sister company, Admit One Home Systems. “It’s integrated with AV [audiovisual]. It can turn the TV on, it can play music, it can play music at a certain level. It can turn on a certain station. One button can trigger an entire scene.”

Those scenes are programmed into custom keypads throughout the home. Rather than controlling a single fixture, each button activates a series of actions—lighting levels, music and even window shades. All designed for how homeowners actually live.

Aurora One specializes in architectural lighting, as showcased in these illuminated bookshelves. The fixture, selected by an interior designer, is part of a thoughtfully integrated lighting plan. Aurora One collaborates closely with designers and architects to seamlessly incorporate lighting into the overall design of the home.

For Joe Branchaw, Aurora One’s lighting specialist, the goal of lighting design is emotional. “What we’re trying to do with lighting is evoke a feeling,” Branchaw says. “Do you want to be energized? We can use brighter, more intense light. Want to relax? We dim it down. Candlelit dinner, we can control that, too.” Branchaw says lighting is often an afterthought in home design, but it has a profound impact. “You don’t know bad lighting

until you see it. Once you see it, you know it,” he says. Light can become an element that adds depth and warmth, much like how an interior designer can use throw pillows and artwork to add color and visual texture to a room. “We use light to enhance your day-today experience. It’s the one thing you touch every single day,” he says.

Meaningful lighting improvement doesn’t require major construction. “A lot of it is

A backlit mountain silhouette brings sculptural dimension to this sauna, demonstrating how architectural lighting can enhance a room’s sense of warmth and retreat.

changing the light source and the control,” Branchaw says. “Swap out the dimmer, update the inside of the fixture and it completely changes how the room feels. You don’t have to tear open drywall.”

For new builds and even any renovation project, Aurora One emphasizes collaboration, not competition. Owner Kristen Reinitz is a certified lighting designer, while Branchaw has almost 25 years experience as

Discreet baseboard lighting is a sophisticated way to illuminate a bathroom, providing guidance and ambiance during nighttime hours.

“WHAT WE’RE TRYING TO DO WITH LIGHTING IS EVOKE

A FEELING.”

Joe Branchaw, Aurora One Lighting

an electrical engineer. “We do a lot of the lighting design ourselves, and when it comes to decorative pendants, like the artwork and over the dining room table, we work with the interior designers on where they want the pendants placed. They select all that. We do the rest. We are typically hand in hand with the interior designers and builders and the homeowner on the layout and how everything is going to look in the end,” Branchaw says. “We work alongside electricians, AV contractors, interior designers and builders. If a homeowner already has an AV team, we coordinate with them.”

Ideally, Betzold and Branchaw say it’s best if they’re brought in early on in the process. “The best thing is to get in with the architects because then we can manipulate where the trusses are placed so that the lighting gets placed in the right spot … If we get in early enough, we can help manipulate the trusses,” Branchaw says.

Betzold says the company is leaning heavily into education. “That’s something we are really trying to teach and get out into the industry and let architects know. It’s such a more seamless process and end result when we can get in earlier,” she says. Branchaw agrees. “The architects who understand it, use it a lot. We are still trying to educate a lot of people about how to get in early enough. Lighting is the one piece that you use on a daily basis.”

Aurora One Lighting and Admit One Home Services auroraonelighting.com @auroraonelighting

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Designer Tim Ricker weaves a tapestry of luxury using a beloved hue.

A THREAD OF

Kelly Green

Edina interior designer Tim Ricker loves when a home tells a story—especially when a client’s personality, interests or favorite things become its central themes. In a recent fullhome renovation project in the Rolling Green neighborhood, that story began with one vivid detail: the homeowner’s love of Kelly green. What followed was a yearlong, full-scale renovation that allowed Ricker not only to weave that vibrant hue throughout the home, but also to shape virtually every design decision, big and small. The homeowner, a relative of a close acquaintance, came to Ricker with complete trust. “He said to me, ‘Tim, here’s the deal: I am bringing my wife, my children and my cars. I want you to build me a beautiful house,’” Ricker remembers. Ricker and Ben Nelson were behind the architectural design. And Ricker and his team took the lead on everything from the pool towels to the cutlery.

Written by Jennifer Pitterle

The result is a home that balances classic familiarity—maintaining the spirit of its original Georgian-colonial footprint—with a fresh, modern point of view. Rather than saturate the home in green, Ricker approached it like a perfect seasoning: enough to infuse character but never enough to overwhelm or to become monochromatic. “We created a very neutral palette and sprinkled the Kelly green from room to room. For instance, in the great room, we had a custom rug made, and that’s really the only place that has the Kelly green, and it’s woven into that rug,” Ricker says.

The color appears again, subtly and deliberately, as the home unfolds. “The next room is the dining room, and the only thing that is Kelly green are the dining room chairs,” Ricker says. In other spaces, green appears in a silk rug or a set of linens. “We just sprinkled it enough through the house that it made sense without being too much of a surprise in any area.”

“He said to me, ‘Tim, here’s the deal: I am bringing my wife, my children and my cars. I want you to build me a beautiful house.’”

Tim Ricker, Tim Ricker Interiors

Even the pool house and powder room carry hints of green. In the jewel-box powder room, a single Kelly green hand towel on a gold tray introduces the color with understated elegance. In fact, Ricker says, the powder room has the most luxury per square foot of any space in the home. It features mosaic marble floors, black lacquered paneled walls with brass inlays, an illuminated countertop and a custom brass sink with an imported German crystal faucet. “We had so many beautiful elements there,” he says.

Throughout the rest of the home, warm white oak cabinetry, paneling and built-ins anchor the palette, providing a soft counterpoint to the flashes of green; he recommends using a very neutral color scheme for most of your furnishings, so your accent color isn’t competing with other noisy shades. And as for the accent shade itself, if you love it, go for it. “As long as there’s consistency from room to room, if you have the right balance, it can work with whatever color you want to introduce,” he says.

One of Ricker’s favorite spots in the home is the pool-cabana area, where the natural green of the grass and leaves carry the color theme outdoors. In addition to the cabana itself, which provides much-needed shade

during a hot Minnesota summer. “I wanted it to feel like a livable interior space, so we did all fully upholstered exterior furniture. It really feels like a California house when you’re there in the summer months,” he says.

Ricker loves talking about color with each client before a remodel or new construction project even gets underway. “Before design even comes into play, it’s really about psychology,” he says. “In the end, I’m not living in the space; the client is living in the space.”

And although he doesn’t run a retail store anymore (Ricker previously owned At Home and Co. at 50th and France in Edina.), his eye for small but impactful touches is one of the best in the biz. Now, at his bespoke design studio on nearby Market Street, clients can stop by to talk about project ideas and get inspiration from Ricker and his team.

So whether your shade is Kelly, lime, mint, moss, olive or sage—or perhaps not green at all—Ricker shows us that incorporating a favorite color into a home can be done in a way that’s understated, meaningful and totally unique.

Tim Ricker Interiors timrickerinteriors.com @timrickerinteriors

Flip Side

A Crystal Kitchen + Bath remodel transforms a house into a sophisticated home.

Written by Laurie Junker — Photos by Spacecrafting

The prospect of being closer to their two grandsons was a powerful motivator for South Dakotans Jeff and Kendall Jones to find a second home in the Twin Cities. They felt lucky to find a light-filled, 1986 contemporary home in Minnetonka that features a large wooded backyard and is within walking distance to their grandchildren.

When they purchased the home unseen, the Joneses liked the home’s asymmetrical facade and layout—unfortunately, they

discovered that many of the interior finishes were low-quality, the kitchen lacked functionality and the main floor had poor sightlines despite the abundance of natural light. Plus, the style wasn’t quite their own. “I suspect it may have been a flip,” says Amber Weekley Elioff, general manager of Crystal Kitchen + Bath. “I didn’t even recognize some of the plumbing fixture brands.”

The Joneses asked Weekley Elioff to help rethink their home to suit their tastes and

lifestyle better. “Kendall and Jeff are a fun couple, and they really like midcentury style, which is also one of my favorites,”

Weekley Elioff says.

Step one was to replace all the flooring. For the dining room, kitchen and laundry room, they chose an easy-to-clean 12x24 metallic black tile from Fray Atlas Concord featuring a coppery sheen and a bit of texture. For the entryway and staircase treads, a soft, natural white oak was the pick. “We also brought in

a structural engineer to shore up the safety of the stairs,” Weekley Elioff says.

Weekley Elioff worked with the existing kitchen peninsula as it holds a post with critical electrical runs. However, the appliances were relocated to improve the sink-refrigerator-stove work triangle and minimize steps while cooking. A small prep island was added, which also serves as a grocery landing spot. The kitchen is chock-a-block with personalized storage

via custom, rift-sawn white oak cabinets. There’s a modern appliance garage with bifold doors, large drawers for pots and pans, a slotted knife drawer and another for organizing spices. Striking walls of dark turquoise tile with matte and glossy parts break up the cabinet massing and infuse the space with personality. “The tile has color, texture and sparkle but isn’t too busy,” Weekley Elioff says. The adjacent laundry room received similar treatment, with crisp white-painted cabinets, the same Cambria Smithfield countertops as the kitchen, and a rod for air-drying clothes, per Kendall’s request.

A wall between the front door and the dining room, which the Joneses hoped to remove to open up sightlines, had to stay because of existing HVAC lines. Weekley Elioff cleverly addressed the problem by opening up a large pass-through in the center of the wall, with puck lights at the top. Now the Joneses can see who’s at the front door without having to walk around. “We say hello through the window feature,” Kendall says. “It’s also a great

spot for plants, and helps spread natural light no matter which side of the house the sun is on.” In the dining room, floating shelves, a midcentury-esque white oak buffet and wall tile that matches the kitchen make the two rooms feel connected and purposeful, especially for entertaining.

Upstairs, the primary bathroom—also the victim of a slapdash makeover—needed attention. It had a good layout, plenty of light and vaulted ceilings; so Weekley Elioff focused on updating the finishes and improving function. A custom vanity with one sink, per the Joneses’ wishes, and plenty of counter space and storage to fit snugly between the walls (adding a new half shower wall on one side) was installed. The space was polished off with Corian shower sills, glossy Zelligeinspired herringbone tile, retro single-globe sconces and water-resistant brushed nickel fixtures that are low maintenance. A bench, grab bar and handheld showerhead, along with nonslip floor tile, address safety and age-in-place considerations.

After seeing how things were shaping up

upstairs, Kendall and Jeff decided to add the basement to the project. This is where Weekley Elioff’s favorite feature is. “The bar. I adore this piece,” she says. What looks like a freestanding piece of furniture is actually built-in, trimmed out in white oak, with matte black cabinets and two types of lighting (undercounter and spotlights). It’s definitely a moment with brass cabinet pulls, gold strips between the backsplash tile and a subtle metallic gold swirl in the countertops. “Jeff enjoys whiskey and wine and wanted a bar, not a mini-kitchen,” Weekley Elioff explains.

Now, the lower level, as does the rest of the house, reflects its owners. And the Joneses are enjoying all of it. “The kitchen is amazing. We can host and feed 20 people very easily and proudly,” Kendall says. “The whole house turned out beautifully, and we love living so close to our daughter, son-in-law, and grandsons.”

Crystal Kitchen + Bath crystalkitchen.com @crystalkitchenbath

At

Now Enrolling for Preschool School Year 2026-2027.

earlylearning.edinaschools.org

early.learning@edinaschools.org

(952)-848-3908 5701 Normandale Road Edina, MN 55424

HOME + GARDEN Collection

SPRING 2026

J BROTHERS

At J Brothers, we believe remodeling should feel exciting, not overwhelming. We don’t just build spaces; we create homes you’ll love for years to come. With over 40 years of custom building and remodeling experience, our collaborative, open-book approach keeps you informed and confident every step of the way. Our team protects and cares for your home during construction, while our in-house interior designer guides you through selections with clear budgets and 3D renderings, so you can truly see it before we build it. From our first conversation to your final walkthrough, we’re committed to making the process smooth, transparent and enjoyable. jbrothersremodel.com

SOUTHVIEW DESIGN

A thoughtfully designed landscape is more than an improvement—it’s an investment in how you live. At Southview Design, every project begins with careful planning that considers not only how a space will look, but how it will be experienced, maintained and protected for years to come. From grading and drainage to material selection and plant health, our integrated design-build team brings craftsmanship and foresight together—creating outdoor environments that feel effortless, enduring and beautifully resolved. The result is a landscape that enhances daily living, strengthens your home’s long-term value and performs exceptionally in Minnesota’s climate. With more than 45 years of experience, landscapes by Southview Design are built to last—in beauty, performance and the moments they support. southviewdesign.com

CASTLE BUILDING & REMODELING

This complete main-floor renovation reimagines a dated home as a sophisticated haven. Gutted to the studs, the kitchen, dining, laundry and powder rooms were reborn with timeless craftsmanship. Popcorn ceilings were smoothed, and solid hardwood floors laid throughout for a seamless flow. In the kitchen, the removal of soffits made way for two expansive work islands, featuring inset cabinetry and a stunning blend of walnut and marble surfaces. Custom built-ins add elegant storage to the dining room, while fresh tile and updated moldings unify the design. It is a masterful transformation that breathes style and functionality into every corner. castlebri.com

ALLSTAR CONSTRUCTION

For more than 45 years, Allstar Construction has been a trusted name in delivering high-quality exterior solutions built to last. We proudly partner with homeowners, property managers and many of the region’s largest builders, providing reliable expertise tailored to each project’s unique needs. Our experienced team brings exceptional craftsmanship to roofing, siding, windows, gutters and storm damage repair, with a strong focus on durability and detail. From largescale developments to high-end custom homes, we ensure clear communication and dependable execution—enhancing curb appeal, protecting investments and delivering results you can count on for years to come. allstartoday.com

LAUREL BUILDERS

Personal attention. Proven expertise. Exceptional results. Laurel Builders is a nationally recognized, award-winning design/build/remodel firm, specializing in additions, major renovations and custom homes. With 20 years in business and over 50 years of experience among the owners, the team brings seasoned expertise to every project with a personal approach. Clients work directly with the owners from the first conversation through the final walkthrough, ensuring clear communication and thoughtful guidance throughout the process. By pairing hands-on involvement with the resources to manage complex builds, Laurel Builders delivers a collaborative experience, lasting craftsmanship and relationships built to endure. laurelbuilders.com

RON CLARK CONSTRUCTION & DESIGN

Great association living starts by associating with a builder who specializes in great homes. At Ron Clark Construction & Design, we’ve built our reputation on 50 plus years of constructing award-winning custom residences for our neighbors throughout the Twin Cities area. For decades, Ron Clark Construction & Design has been designing and building homes of distinction for thousands of families. Today, our condominiums, townhomes, single-family and villa homes can be found in some of the most prestigious neighborhoods throughout the Twin Cities area, such as Eden Prairie, Golden Valley, Minnetonka, Plymouth and Prior Lake. With more than 50 years of building success, we are consistent, reliable and exceptional. Call us at 952.947.3000. ronclark.com

YARDSCAPES

Yardscapes, Inc. has been designing and installing award-winning custom residential outdoor spaces for the past 51 years! We combine art and science to create a unique project for every client. Our designers take a project from its conceptual phase, through landscape construction and to its completion. Each project can be constructed with a combination of natural stone, and other hardscape elements, a variety of plant material, water features, patios, retaining walls, lighting, custom pools, outdoor kitchens and fire features. With the proper combination of natural elements, your personal natural environment can be created. Reach out to us at 952.887.2794. yardscapesinc.com

Written by Alexandra Tostrud — Photos by Chris Emeott

A couple puts a high-protein twist on a classic breakfast staple.

Pump Up the Jam

When Michelle and Brian Platt saw a need for a fruit spread superfood, they decided to create it themselves. Jam Packd Jams, which has already made $200,000 in its first six months of direct-to-consumer sales, is a multiuse fruit spread loaded with real fiber, fruit, protein and much more. “People tell us it’s like a Fruit Roll-Ups in a jar. That’s such a compliment to us,” Brian says.

While the Edina couple kept jam on hand, Michelle and Brian weren’t overly pleased with the nutritional content available in existing brands. “We kind of noticed many sugar-free jams are very low in real fruit and don’t have any of the other good stuff that we naturally wanted,” Brian says.

Michelle spent the last 10 years on her health and wellness blog, My Purse Strings Brian worked in advertising as a copywriter

and creative director for most of his career. Today, the pair balance their superfood side hustle with Michelle’s full-time job as a school campus director and Brian’s freelancing career.

The Platts started the recipe testing in their kitchen in April 2024 but quickly realized their desired combination of ingredients might need additional help from professionals. They turned to a food science company based in Amsterdam that was excited about their vision. After rounds of trial and error, Jam Packd Jams came to life, and they began direct-to-consumer distribution in June 2025.

The product received more than 100 reviews in its first six weeks, with customers praising the fruit spread they’re adding to oatmeal, smoothies and yogurt, using on

“People are writing us these ‘love letters’ about how they use the product.”

Brian Platt, Jam Packd

peanut butter and jelly sandwiches or even eating straight out of the jar with a spoon. The 3-Packd, which includes the current jam lineup of blueberry, raspberry and strawberry, is by far their best seller.

“It’s been really nice to see. People are writing us these ‘love letters’ about how they use the product,” Brian says. “Your friends and family, they’re always going to tell you, ‘You’re an angel. We love what you have.’ But when you get almost a perfect five-star review—4.87— from complete strangers, it feels great,” he says.

The Platts say one of the biggest trends in food is protein, but they feel their jam’s ingredient list being “everything and the kitchen sink” will grant their rise to success longevity, especially in a world where people are more conscious about what they put into their bodies.

“In all transparency, I wasn’t eating jam,” Michelle says. “[Jam

is] just sort of empty calories, like I was looking for protein sources and doing smoothies and different things. And so again, we’re getting feedback from a lot of women, like, ‘I bought this for my kids,’ or ‘I just didn’t think I would eat jam, but I’m eating this now.’”

The Platts attended Expo West in March. It’s a gathering of more than 70,000 people in the natural and organic product business. They were eager to connect with other entrepreneurs and share samples in person. Another step forward for the company was a celebrity collaboration with actor and comedian Howie Mandel, with a commercial shot for television, and in-store retail locations in Manhattan, Pop-Up Grocer on Bleeker Street and Eden Gourmet Marketplace. They are also in talks with Minnesota grocery stores to sell their products. Additionally, the Platts expect to add grape alongside its current trio of flavors.

When asked about how to inspire other entrepreneurs, Michelle says it’s important to learn about your product. “You have to become an expert,” Michelle says. “I feel like we’ve become experts.”

Jam Packd Jams

jampackdjams.com

@jampackdjams

McDonald Remodeling

Chris Wylie understands the key to helping clients articulate their home remodel dreams. “It starts with listening,” says Wylie, the owner and CEO of McDonald Remodeling. “We need to be quiet and listen to the clients’ goals. If we can do a great job of listening and understand what is driving the narrative, we can lead clients through thoughtful designs and achieve their goals.”

McDonald Remodeling is an award-winning design-build, full service residential remodeling builder, specializing in additions, bathrooms, kitchens, lower levels and whole house remodels. Its foundation is built upon providing high-quality remodeling and design services—rooted in integrity, creativity and meticulous attention to detail.

“We maintain a company culture in which employees are valued and respected,” Wylie says. “Together, we encourage, support and recognize

one another in the delivery of outstanding products and processes. As a result, our services are repeatedly sought after by clients.”

Longtime clients Brad and Terri highlight McDonald Remodeling’s accountability, organization, quality craftmanship and “wonderful communication with us that started well before construction began and continued throughout the process,” they say.

“We were absolutely honored to welcome the McDonald team into our house that we have owned for 30 years and plan to own for another 30 years,” say Michelle and Peter.

“You all made a difference in our lives.”

“Being invited to work in someone’s home never gets old,” Wylie says.” We honor that invitation with a professional and humble approach, and this includes our subs and vendors. When clients trust to share our name with family and friends, that validates what we do.  It’s exciting!”

Stop and Smell the Couture

Spring blooms transform the Galleria into a stylish floral spectacle.

The Galleria’s annual flower show is going through a rebirth. This year, it is bursting into bloom with the Minnesota debut of Fleurs de Villes FLORA. The 10-day immersive exhibition (April 10–19) has internationally renowned Fleurs de Villes transforming the center into a living gallery that celebrates fashion and creativity.

Edina’s The Petal and Haute House Studio are among 15 Twin Cities floral designers that will create couture-inspired mannequins entirely from fresh flowers. There will also be storefront displays throughout the Galleria. Select restaurants will also have seasonal and flower-inspired menus. Feroza Mehta

04.08

Edina Shark Tank

Young entrepreneurs from Edina High School will pitch ideas to a panel of “sharks” from 11 a.m.–1 p.m. at the Edina Country Club. edinachamber.com

04.08–04.19

MSPIFF@EdinaTheatre

The Minneapolis St. Paul International Film Festival’s satellite location is the Edina Mann Theatre. Catch the best titles from around the world and Minnesota. mspfilm.org

04.10

Edinborough Movie Night

This fun outing is for the whole family. From 5–7 p.m., Edinborough Park will host Moana 2 on the big screen. edinamn.gov

04.17

Give to Grow Gala

Enjoy food and drinks, games, a silent auction and more as Edina Chamber of Commerce hosts its annual Give to Grow Gala from 6–9 p.m. at Pinstripes. edinachamber.com

04.17–04.18

Spring Ice Show

Enjoy the Braemar City of the Lakes Figure Skating Club’s spring ice show, themed Heroes & Villains. braemarfsc.org

04.18

Clothing Swap

Swap out old favorites while giving wardrobes a spring refresh during this annual event from 10 a.m.–1 p.m. at the Edina Senior Center. edinamn.gov

Compiled

by

Abigail Larson and KateThompson

To have your event considered: email edinamag@localmedia.co by the 10th of the month three months prior to publication. Please note that some events may have changed since these pages went to print. Please visit affiliated websites for updates.

The City of Edina applauds Bellmont Partners for being a Green Business!

Most construction and demolition waste that finds its way into U.S. landfills is from remodeling projects. When local PR firm Bellmont Partners recently revamped its office space, they made it a priority to buck that trend with almost all furnishings kept or repurposed. Bellmont Partners also has a social impact purchasing policy to align investments as closely as possible with the firm’s core values.

The City of Edina is committed to reaching its Climate Action goals and is interested in recognizing businesses like Bellmont Partners for doing its part. For more information or to apply to be a Green Business, visit EdinaMN.gov/GreenBusiness.

Fashion Fundraiser at the Fitting Room

50th & France along with the Fitting Room hosted a fundraiser for fashion designer Jordan Carpenter to attend New York Fashion Week. The late January event was a success, as Carpenter’s gowns hit the stage of Sony Hall in Times Square on February 13. All his models were from the Twin Cities. Learn more about Carpenter in our May issue.

To have your event considered: send date, time, location, photos, contact information and a brief description of the event to edinamag@localmedia.co.

The Beauty of Becoming

This photograph captures a fleeting moment in time for Judy Fulk, who spent several weeks taking snapshots of a giant allium in her front yard. “It is in the process of blooming,” Fulk says, adding that two days before she took this photo, the flower was more closed, and the buds were whiter in color. “I really like alliums and when they are emerging. The tiny umbels at the end of the flower change almost daily. What I like most about this photo is its simplicity. Simple shapes, complementary colors and that it captures a moment in time before the flower blooms.”

—Feroza Mehta

Photographer: Judy Fulk

Title: Emerging Category: Plants and Animals Award: Second Place Equipment: OM System OM-3 and OM System M. Zuiko Digital ED 90 mm f/3.5 Macro IS Pro Lens

To view other Images of Edina photo contest winners, visit edinamag.com.

Evolve

boho chic cowgirl

spring fashion show + Pop-up

saturday april 11th

6pm - 9:30pm

3924 west 50th st edina, MN 55424