Inside the Home of Jessica Manning-Brose: A Blend of Heritage and Modern Living
Jessica Manning-Brose, a creative spirit with roots in Sweden and the United States, has crafted a home in Los Angeles that reflects her unique background and values. Living with her husband, Zach, and their young daughter, Nina, Jessica’s home is a testament to the beauty of thrifted finds and the warmth of family traditions.
A Journey from Sweden to Los Angeles
Born in Stockholm, Jessica spent her early years in a community that emphasized family and togetherness. “I remember feeling very held by our community there,” she recalls. This sense of belonging is a cornerstone of her upbringing, where playgrounds were abundant and nature was a playground for children. After moving to Minneapolis, she experienced a different kind of magic, with its enchanting lakes and vibrant culture.
Jessica’s journey from Sweden to the U.S. has shaped her aesthetic sensibilities. The Scandinavian design ethos, known for its minimalism and functionality, is evident in her home. This influence is complemented by her American experiences, creating a harmonious blend of styles that is both inviting and practical.
The Heart of the Home: Dining and Living Areas
Jessica’s dining area is a reflection of her love for solid wood pieces, often sourced from Facebook Marketplace. “They’re typically well made and priced lower than what they’re worth because they belonged to someone’s grandma,” she explains. This approach not only supports sustainability but also adds character to her home.
The dining table and chairs, paired with cushions from H&M Home, create a cozy atmosphere. A Noguchi pendant light hangs above, adding a touch of elegance. The living area, which flows seamlessly from the dining space, features a daybed that serves dual purposes. “I wanted to have two areas that flowed well,” Jessica notes, emphasizing the importance of functionality in her design choices.
Embracing Swedish Traditions
Jessica’s love for Swedish pastries, particularly semla-a cardamom bun filled with whipped cream and almond paste-highlights her connection to her heritage. Candles are a staple in her home, creating a cozy ambiance year-round. This practice is deeply rooted in Swedish culture, where lighting candles is a way to foster warmth and comfort, especially during the long winters.
Clever Furniture Choices
In her living area, Jessica has made thoughtful furniture choices that enhance both style and practicality. The daybed, sourced from Sundays, serves as a comfortable spot for relaxation while also delineating the dining and living spaces. “A really big rug makes a room feel warm and grounded,” she shares, advocating for larger rugs that can transform a space.
Her thrifting skills, honed from a young age, have allowed her to find unique pieces that tell a story. “Sometimes it felt embarrassing,” she admits, reflecting on her childhood experiences of shopping at thrift stores while peers wore brand-name clothing. Today, she embraces her past, proud of her ability to seek out hidden gems.
The Kitchen: A Hub of Family Life
The kitchen is where family rituals come to life. Jessica, Zach, and Nina cherish their morning walks, often starting their day at dawn to enjoy the quiet of their neighborhood. “At that time, the neighborhood is super quiet, and our daughter loves the stroller,” she shares, emphasizing the joy of simple moments spent together.
Baking is another cherished activity, with Jessica favoring Trader Joe’s bourbon vanilla bean paste for its rich flavor. This ingredient not only enhances her baked goods but also adds a special touch to family meals.
A Cozy Family Room
The family room is a blend of comfort and style, featuring bookshelves sourced from Facebook Marketplace and a handmade marble side table that has been passed down through generations. Jessica’s upbringing in Minneapolis, surrounded by nature, has influenced her design choices, creating a space that feels both inviting and connected to the outdoors.
“Minneapolis is a decent-sized city with so much access to nature,” she reflects, highlighting the importance of outdoor spaces for children. The family room serves as a gathering place, where laughter and stories are shared, reinforcing the bonds of family.
The Nursery: A Space for Growth
Nina’s nursery is designed to be both playful and sophisticated. Painted in ‘Old White’ by Farrow & Ball, the room feels light and airy, with toys adding pops of color. Jessica’s approach to design is evident here, as she balances childlike whimsy with a sense of maturity.
“Before becoming a mom, I didn’t realize how quickly babies change,” she notes, marveling at Nina’s rapid growth and development. This awareness of the fleeting nature of childhood adds a layer of sentimentality to the nursery, making it a cherished space for the family.
The Parents’ Bedroom: A Retreat
In the parents’ bedroom, Jessica and Zach have created a serene retreat. The bed, sourced from Lulu & Georgia, is complemented by a duvet from Jenni Kayne, creating a cozy atmosphere for winding down. The couple enjoys light-hearted television shows like “Schitt’s Creek” as a way to relax after a long day, finding humor in the everyday challenges of parenthood.
Jessica’s reflections on motherhood reveal the transformative nature of this journey. “The realities of becoming a mom knocked me on my face,” she admits, acknowledging the challenges of sleep deprivation while also celebrating the joy of seeing the world through her daughter’s eyes.
Conclusion: A Home Filled with Stories
Jessica Manning-Brose’s home is more than just a living space; it is a reflection of her journey, values, and the love she shares with her family. Through thoughtful design choices, a commitment to sustainability, and a deep appreciation for her heritage, Jessica has created a warm and inviting environment that feels like a true home. As she navigates the joys and challenges of motherhood, her home serves as a sanctuary filled with stories, memories, and the promise of a bright future.
