Photo by Charlene Corson Selbee
Walking into the former shoe repair store at 106 Washington Street in downtown Decorah brings back a flood of memories, as it does to many boomers. If only the walls could talk, one has to wonder what stories they would tell. Now, a new chapter is being written.
Kari L. Steinlage, owner of KL Design Co., revealed that the building, which dates back over 100 years, was home to shoe-related businesses for approximately 70 years. Originally a dry goods store, it now serves as both her design studio and a retail store. The allure of the building, in addition to its rich history, is that many of the building’s original features were preserved. The high tin ceiling, the floor-to-ceiling shelves, the rolling ladder, the storefront, and the wooden floor remain intact. As an interior designer, Kari skillfully transformed the spacious first floor into an inviting space. The front two-thirds is a retail shop, while the back third is her efficiently designed studio.
Kari, a native of Calmar and a graduate of South Winneshiek, continued her education at University of Northern Iowa (UNI) Cedar Falls, where she earned a degree in interior design. From there, she worked for a Cedar Falls company, where she learned the software programs and specialized in designing kitchens. Eventually, she returned home, settling in Atkinson and working for a lumberyard in Elkader while taking on side projects.
After launching her own business 21 years ago in her home, and as it grew, she saw an opportunity to expand. Drawn to Decorah’s charm and recognizing both a need and finding the perfect storefront to rent, she made the move. With her Norwegian heritage aligning seamlessly with Decorah’s rich cultural roots, it was an ideal fit. “I really love Decorah,” Kari shared.
Kari’s team includes Tami Bohr, whose background is not in design but whose potential Kari quickly recognized. Their connection began when Kari was hired to work on a porch project at Tami’s home in Burr Oak. Tami, a Luther College graduate, spent 24 years as a preschool teacher in Decorah before transitioning into the design world. She has been working alongside Kari for a year and a half, learning the business and honing her skills under Kari’s guidance.
“We were really busy during COVID because people were staying home,” Kari recalls. As the business grew, there is now room for a second employee. Interested applicants can apply online.
KL Design Co. offers a wide range of services, including everything from 3D rendering, architectural design and drawings, exterior remodels, attic and basement conversions, kitchen and bathroom designs, deck design, drafting, floor plans, garage design, home additions, home extensions, home remodeling, house plans, kitchen design, laundry room design, mudroom design and new home construction. Kari said, “It can be as simple as selecting the paint color.” The design team designed the floor plans for the Depot Outlet expansion and the Burr Oak Mercantile remodel. Fillmore County Journal readers are encouraged to visit their website and Houzz.com for examples of their work. The 360-degree view of projects on the company website, kldesignllc.com is a must-see!
Kari has been hired to complete projects within a 1–2 hour radius of Decorah, including towns in Fillmore and Houston counties.
In addition to the design studio, there’s a retail shop at the front of the store where shoppers will find a selection of Uff Da products as well as items crafted by local artists. The store carries candles, wall decorations, pillows, vases, plates, dish towels, and vintage items. During special events, Kari serves lefsa and Norwegian delicacies made by her father, the owner of Decorah’s Lefsa Lodge Kafe.
KL Design Co. is located in the former Perfect Edge store across from Impact Coffee. It is open Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Friday from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m., and closed on Saturday and Sunday, although the store is open on Saturdays for special events!
To get in touch with the design team, call 563-380-3500 or email kldesignllc@gmail.com. Be sure to follow KL Design Co. on Facebook, Pinterest, and Instagram for updates and inspiration.
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