Text by Holly Seng
A fixer-upper wasn’t exactly what Jenny and David Brooks had in mind when searching for a home in the Lexington, Kentucky, area. However, when an older residence in a highly sought-after neighborhood offered an expansive yard and was conveniently located near their children’s schools and a golf course, Jenny was more than up for the creative challenge. “I saw all the potential in the world,” she recalls.
Through the full-scale renovation of their established abode, Jenny discovered she had a penchant for design and has since founded Bloom Interior Designs, where she helps clients with everything from styling to remodeling. Though she’s up to speed on all the latest trends, it’s vintage treasures and pieces with priceless sentimental value that capture Jenny’s heart. “I love for everything to have meaning,” she says. “My home has been curated for 30 years, and that’s what makes it special.”
Holidays are no different as heirloom decorations and ornaments mingle with beloved flea market finds and a few new additions. In the entry, a soothing snow-inspired scheme of wintry whites and cool gray hues sets a welcoming tone. “It’s the first thing you see, so it sets the tone for what you’re going to experience in our holiday home,” says Jenny. Touches of gold and candle-filled lanterns adorning the tree contribute to its warm glow while snowflakes and swirls of ribbon lend texture.
The “mantel” room, named by the family, sits adjacent to the entry, the two spaces flowing seamlessly together thanks to the expanded doorway—one of the many structural changes made to the home. The room’s neutral scheme is dressed up with marvelous metallic accoutrements for a glamorous spin on a white Christmas. True to the room’s moniker, the mantel takes prominence as it showcases a trio of mirrors that are some of Jenny’s most cherished collectibles. Mixed greenery layered with bells and beaded garland pairs with candlesticks and a variety of tree figurines for a festive flair.
Keeping her three children in mind, Jenny takes a more playful approach to the holidays in the kitchen and dining area, infusing the primarily white spaces with dashes of classic red and lively seasonal accents. A swag of greenery embellished with faux poinsettias and berries adorns the copper range hood while snowmen and Santa motifs ensure there’s merriment in every corner. When it comes to the holiday menu, Jenny and David draw from their Louisiana roots and serve up flavorful Cajun fare—from crawfish dressing and gumbo to a tasty shrimp, crab, and corn bisque.
In the dining room, the jovial theme continues with a tree bedecked with bright red ribbon and oversize snowflakes tucked among its branches. Mercury glass trees and taper candles top a white runner on the table, transporting dinner guests to a snow-covered winter wonderland. The hutch—an antiques show find—features china passed down from David’s grandmother, styled with heartfelt mementos and seasonal accents.
The family room saw its fair share of attention in the home’s makeover, including a new coffered ceiling and reimagined built-ins flanking the fireplace. A shiplap accent wall infuses subtle farmhouse charm as open shelving takes the place of closed upper cabinetry. Jenny displays her collection of miniature trees, including a set made from Louisiana oyster shells gifted to Jenny by her mother, atop a console table complete with a fluffy table runner.
From the shimmery sophisticated style in the more formal areas to the whimsical approach that creates magical moments for her children, Jenny shares her heart for decorating with guests and family alike. “I hope this will be one of these things that my kids will remember was a passion of mine and that, looking back, made their holidays much more special,” she says.
For more information, visit @bloom_jennybrooks on Instagram.
