Heidi Gardner’s Mid-Century Modern Marvel in Kansas City
Welcome to Kansas City, a place where creativity meets comfort, and you can turn any space into a cozy haven. And when you look at the latest from one of our own homegrown talents, Heidi Gardner, a Kansas City native and star of “Saturday Night Live,” you’ll see just how magical that transformation can be. Recently, she revealed her stunningly renovated mid-century modern home to a captivated audience in an exclusive tour.
Enter the Chic Time Capsule
Gardner calls her home a “sexy, chic time capsule”, drawing inspiration heavily from her love of the ‘70s. In her interview during the house tour, she reflects on how this renovation feels like a blend of her two favorite places: Kansas City and New York. “This house is both a Kansas City labor of love and New York labor of love, which is kinda like me,” she said. Acknowledging the previous owners’ artistic flair, Gardner aimed to retain the vibrant spirit that filled the home, even after extensive renovations.
Design Decisions Worth Celebrating
She collaborated with the Kansas City-based Cicada Company for the design and build work and the talented Madelynn Hudson from New York took care of the interior details. Gardner emphasized, “It was really important to me to keep the vibes that I originally saw when I walked in this house, with the wood walls and the stone.” Imagine walking into a space that immediately transports you to the backdrop of “Boogie Nights.”
The custom lion door knocker left by the previous owners captures the essence of the home beautifully. “I love that it’s just a big handle to get into my house with,” Gardner explains, emphasizing her desire to maintain the personality of the home throughout her renovation journey.
A Personal Touch at Every Turn
As you enter, you’re greeted with a delightful personal touch — a cherished photo of her father from New Year’s Eve 1980, complete with a lamp shade as a hat. “I knew it was what I wanted to set the tone with,” she said with a warm smile. Beside it sits a framed matchbox from the famed Peppercorn Duck Club, a nostalgic nod to her family’s adventures.
The living room features chic chrome coffee tables and a curvy sofa that Gardner happily declares is “a perfect encapsulation of a curated ‘70s moment.” Just around the corner is her very own bar area, a space that has become a staple for cocktail-making during the pandemic. Her cocktail station features handmade tiles by Kansas City artist Emily Reinhardt, which adds a uniquely local flair.
Disco Fever in the Kitchen
But the star of the kitchen? A spectacular glittery hood over the stove that dazzles like a disco ball. “At night, it really is like Studio 54 in here,” she exclaims. Imagine the atmosphere as friends gather, drinks in hand, and dance to the beats reminiscent of an era defined by glitz and glam.
Chill and Unwind
As you explore the home, you can’t help but notice the cozy, laid-back vibe. Gardner has created spaces optimized for relaxation. There’s the main bedroom decked out with a sexy upholstered bed alongside her expansive closet filled with Kansas City Chiefs and Royals gear. She humorously encourages guests to pack their own robes for poolside gatherings — “I want everybody slinky and sexy and feeling themselves,” she quips.
Outdoor Entertaining with a Midwestern Touch
The backyard is an entertainer’s paradise! A stunning pool represents relaxation and rejuvenation. “Jumping in the water every day is so healing,” she says, reflecting on that blissful escape from city life. The space has been designed beautifully with custom tiles lining the pool’s edge, and a cozy boulder fire pit enhances the inviting atmosphere.
With open doors leading to the backyard, Gardner hopes her guests enjoy cocktails and laughter under the stars, whether in business suits or robes, embracing the beauty of life. “I just want people feeling themselves,” she shares, ensuring that everyone who steps into her chic abode finds a slice of joy.
In a world where homes can often feel cold and impersonal, Gardner’s mid-century modern haven stands out as a testament to creativity, warmth, and unrestrained joy. So here’s to creating spaces that truly feel like home!
