A Mid-Century Gem Reimagined: Inside Emily Pertzborn’s Playful Split-Level Makeover

Tucked into a quiet neighborhood in Des Moines, Iowa, this mid-century split-level was full of potential—and interior designer Emily Pertzborn saw every bit of it. With a fearless eye for pattern, color, and detail, she turned a dated space into a vibrant, livable home that celebrates the best of mid-century style while feeling completely fresh and current. 

If you’re someone who swoons over bold colors, vintage vibes, and lighting that knows how to make a statement, you’re going to love this transformation. 

Embracing the Era, Without Getting Stuck in It

The home’s architecture has all the right bones—split-level charm, natural light, and great flow—but needed a little love to bring it back to life. Instead of fighting its 1960s roots, Emily leaned in. Think warm wood accents reimagined, cheerful tile, and playful curves. 

Emily designs spaces that reflect the personality of the people who live in them. Her love for vintage style draws her to homes like this mid-century split level in Des Moines—the perfect backdrop for her signature mix of bold colors and playful patterns. 

A Bold Point of View, Room by Room 

One of the things that makes Emily’s work so compelling is her bold use of pattern and her belief that design doesn’t have to be neutral to be timeless. In this home, no two rooms look the same, yet they flow effortlessly. 

There’s an inviting kitchen where citrus-hued stools and retro-inspired appliances pop against modern wood cabinetry in a warm, mid-century finish. The living room is cozy and full of personality—the kind of space that practically begs you to kick off your shoes and stay awhile. And in the dining area, a vintage mid-century hutch pairs effortlessly with cobalt blue printed chairs, striking just the right balance between classic and playful. 

The Role of Lighting—Form, Function, and a Little Magic

In a home with so much texture and color, lighting plays a subtle but important role in grounding each space, and giving it that soft, lived-in glow. Emily often turns to Velora’s collection of mid-century modern lighting to strike that balance between function and flair. 

In the kitchen, she chose the Vista 8” Globe Pendants, a sleek nod to classic globe lights with a minimalist twist. They offer just the right amount of task lighting over the kitchen island and serve as a statement piece in their own right. 

Over the dining table, the Portland 6-Light Chandelier steals the show with its clean lines and sculptural silhouette—the perfect contrast to the chairs’ bold print. Lighting should be the jewelry of the room, and in this case, the Portland chandelier adds just the right amount of polish without trying too hard. 

Mid-Century Modern Made Personal 

While the aesthetic may be rooted in the past, nothing about this project feels overly styled or stuck in time. Emily’s thoughtful layering of textures, colors, and lighting helps the space feel modern, playful, and uniquely personal. 

And that’s really the magic of mid-century modern design—it’s timeless enough to adapt to your style, and warm enough to feel like home. 

Want to Steal the Look? 

If Emily’s design has you itching to refresh your own space, you’re not alone. Whether you’re updating a dining room or rethinking your bathroom, thoughtful lighting can go a long way. Explore Velora’s collection of mid-century modern lighting to find pieces that fit your home and personality. 

 

Photos courtesy of www.emilypertzborninteriors.com