Mid-century modern gets a colorful upgrade: kansas city home embraces bold design

A Kansas City homeowner inherited more than just a house; they inherited a floor plan ill-suited for modern living – a common predicament when buying older properties. The owners turned to the Midwest-based interior design firm Kobel + Co., led by Mallory Robins and Elizabeth Bennett, to inject personality and functionality into the 7,250-square-foot residence.

Reimagining flow and functionality

The kitchen was the initial focus, described by Robins as feeling “almost industrial.” The designers transformed an underutilized hallway into a “Hostess Hall,” a space designed for both entertaining and storage. This area features vintage-inspired cabinetry, a high-gloss paint finish, and a bold New London Burgundy hue. The team also created a “li-bar-y,” a library and bar hybrid within a former guest suite, catering to both the homeowner's need for a personal retreat and the husband’s desire for a bar.

A bold palette and layered textures

The design embraced a fearless approach to color and pattern. A vintage-inspired Schumacher floral fabric served as the inspiration, informing the entire Home’s aesthetic. This fabric was used on custom sofas, creating a cohesive and vibrant look. The living room features a creamy backdrop accented with shades of green, blue, yellow, and peach. Bold blue Gracie panels in the dining room, paired with traditional molding, add a touch of opulence. The guest room powder room incorporates oversized floral wallpaper, a nod to the Home’s era, and custom sconce shades for a pop of color.

Thoughtful details and materiality

The designers paid close attention to detail, using decorative mesh grills on cabinets to conceal storage while maintaining aesthetic balance. Graphic Calacatta Vagli marble in the kitchen brings an artistic flair, while vintage-inspired chairs reupholstered in Dedar fabric in the family room connect to the Home's mid-century roots. The back kitchen, cleverly tucked away for everyday tasks, features deep counters and clever nooks. The design team’s approach prioritized functionality, creating a seamless flow between spaces and a cohesive overall aesthetic.

The kobel + co. philosophy

Based in the Midwest, Kobel + Co. distinguishes itself through a dual approach: precision and function combined with intuition and emotion. The firm’s work is characterized by richly layered interiors that seamlessly blend beauty and utility. Their commitment to creating deeply personal homes for discerning clients has garnered them a reputation for sophisticated and thoughtful design.

The result? A Home that feels both timeless and vibrant, a perfect reflection of the family who now calls it Home—and a testament to the power of thoughtful design to transform even the most challenging spaces.