by Christy Heitger-Ewing | photos by Katherine Scheele Photography
Blending Architecture & Design Through Just the Right Windows
In school, Dani Kohl studied both architecture and interior design. Armed with an understanding of materials and building processes beyond the standard designer, Kohl’s practice uniquely blends physical spaces with textiles and furniture. That combination of skills has served her well now as the owner of Dani Kohl Interiors, a full-service interior design studio specializing in high-end residential projects. She works primarily with builders and clients on new construction projects, with their collaboration fueled by her unique skillset.
“Often when architects design their plans for new construction, they don’t know much about the client’s lifestyle,” says Kohl. “I like to look at their plans and tweak them based on artwork, lighting, and special details.”
She and the other three women on her team help their clients design everything from outside shingles, stone, and trim colors to inside selections such as built-ins, wallpaper, lighting, cabinets, flooring, and furniture.
“It’s a more complete design,” says Kohl, who starts working with her clients before they break ground and stays with them all the way to closing, typically a 2- to 2.5-year process. Because she spends so much time with her clients, she gets to know everything about their family, their lifestyle, how they entertain, and how they use their space. This begins with a team consultation at the start of a project, but through genuine relationships, Kohl and her team are able to create the magic of a personalized space.
“The client may have said something about their child or that they like to do a certain activity on the weekend,” says Kohl. “We take those moments when they mention little things very seriously because every house, whether it’s 5,000 sq. ft. or 18,000 sq. ft., is a dream home for them.”
Kohl first worked with Pella ten years ago when she designed her own home. She wanted big windows and tall doors that were modern in style, not only to suit the architecture of her property, but to bring in beauty and natural light to her curated space.
“Pella did a phenomenal job, which is why every time I work with a builder, I recommend they use Pella,” says Kohl. “Pella is always easy to communicate with, their price point is great, they deliver quality products, and they have an awesome showroom.”
One of Kohl’s favorite Pella products are the large multi-slider doors that can be stacked either inside a wall or to the right or left of a wall. These versatile pocket doors are hugely popular as they’re versatile and stylish, with an added benefit of framing the view outside. This is why Kohl always tries to intentionally frame the outdoor view using beautiful windows.
“Sometimes I’ll suggest putting in a big window in a certain spot of a house, and the clients aren’t sure why,” says Kohl. “During the walkthrough, though, they look out and are like, ‘Oh, wow! I didn’t realize we had that great view!’”
According to Kohl, more and more clients are treating the staircases as a focal part of the house by building cool floating landings, risers, and such. One way to highlight the staircase is by placing them next to massive, tall windows. Not only does it welcome an abundance of natural light into the staircase, but they also improve curb appeal.
“When you’re approaching the house from the outside, these staircases are a real showstopper,” says Kohl.
To learn more about how Dani Kohl and her team can elevate your new home to the next level, visit danikohl.com.
