Step Inside a Bungalow Bursting With Color

After seven years in the suburbs, Alex West Steinman and Matt Steinman did the opposite of what many families do: They moved back to the city. “We were craving community and wanted to be closer to everything we love,” says Alex, who owns a coworking space in Minneapolis. (Matt owns multiple escape rooms.) The couple chose a 2,600-square-foot bungalow that’s walking distance from their favorite coffee shop and their kids’ school. To help fill the house with color, Alex called her best friend and business partner, designer Erinn Farrell. The two worked together (along with Joy Architecture) to infuse the space with a playful mix of fabrics, paint and pattern, like this entryway mosaic by artist Mercedes Austin. "We like to live out loud and really wanted that to come across when you step into our home," says Alex.

A color and pattern-filled home is not necessarily what you’d expect when you pull up to the house. The Steinmans painted the exterior Tricorn Black and the door Forever Lilac, both by Sherwin-Williams. “I wanted a sleek black exterior with a rainbow-bright inside,” says Alex. “Surprise!”

Supporting Twin Cities artists and businesses is a priority for the Steinmans. The painting above the mantel is by local artist Leeya Rose Jackson. The green sofa, from Minneapolis furniture maker Blu Dot, unfolds: “It’s great for kids’ sleepovers,” says Alex. The rug is from Revival.

Alex and Matt designed this space with their kids in mind. “I want everyone to know where the snacks are, even their friends,” says Alex. The custom cabinets have plenty of storage and serve as a neutral backdrop for the red stools from Blu Dot. The couple chose the honey-colored bamboo flooring to add warmth. “It makes the whole house feel super homey,” says Alex.

Matt’s dad built the surfboard-like table, where the family often gathers for art projects, board games and homework. “When I come home at night, that’s usually where everyone’s sitting,” says Alex. The painted stripe (Coral Reef by Sherwin-Williams) matches the pink velvet chairs, and an IKEA rug pulls it all together.

"We had this mural painted as soon as we moved in. It instantly made the house feel like ours," says Alex. Local artist Molly Reopelle completed it in two days and sprinkled in a few hidden details. “There’s a leopard tail and a stegosaurus for the kids — they love pointing them out to friends!” says Alex.

A clean, peaceful escape was the goal here. “Work is crazy, and I travel a lot, so I wanted our room to be simple and clutter-free,” says Alex. Bold colors make the Steinmans feel at ease, so Erinn painted the walls yellow (Brittlebush by Sherwin-Williams) and topped the navy bed with an abstract bedspread from Target. The floor lamps are also from Target.