The 56th Symphony Designers’ Showhouse: A Farewell to a Kansas City Tradition We’re Honored to Be Part Of
Each year, we look forward to Kansas City’s design community coming together to celebrate creativity, craftsmanship, and the arts through the Kansas City Symphony Designers’ Showhouse. This year carries even more meaning: 2026 marks the 56th and final Symphony Designers’ Showhouse, a beloved tradition that has supported the Kansas City Symphony for more than half a century.
About the Showhouse
This year’s showhouse is located at 12 West 53rd Terrace in the historic Countryside neighborhood. Built in 1909, the Prairie‑style home spans nearly 6,000 square feet and features original millwork, five fireplaces, and the kind of architectural character that makes designing within it such a joy.
We’re fortunate to be one of 24 designers selected to reimagine spaces in the home and are excited to show you what we’ve created! While our photographs offer a lovely glimpse into the rooms, there’s nothing quite like stepping inside the home yourself. The textures, the color stories, the way each designer interpreted the architecture all come alive in person. We hope you’ll wander through, linger in the details, and experience the full breadth of creativity that makes the Showhouse such a special Kansas City tradition.
Inside Nell Hill’s Space
This year, our team designed the bedroom suite, which includes a comfortable sitting room and a thoughtfully layered bedroom. Before any selections were made, Carlie spoke with the homeowner, who shared that she wanted the bedroom to feel warm and moody, and the sitting room to feel lighter and more refreshing. That contrast became the starting point for the entire suite.
The sitting room reflects that brighter, easygoing mood - a comfortable, collected space with a tailored sofa and classic coffee table. A small desk sits near the window, layered with artwork and books, creating an easy spot to jot down a list or catch up on emails. The original fireplace adds warmth and character, styled with pieces that feel gathered over time. A simple coffee setup on the bar cart makes the room feel instantly livable and serves as a place to start the morning with a cup in hand or pause for a quiet moment before heading out. In the evening, the same piece becomes the perfect spot to mix a nightcap.
Just beyond the sitting room, the bedroom shifts into a deeper, cozier palette. Rich green walls create a moody backdrop for the tufted leather headboard, layered bedding, and plaid pillows. A bench at the foot of the bed softens the room and adds another place to land. The leather chair in the corner brings in a handsome, grounded note, paired with a small marble‑and‑metal accent table and a framed landscape. Across the room, a tall wooden dresser, leaning mirror, and pair of plaid ottomans create a functional dressing area without losing the suite’s quiet, collected feel. The standout detail of the bedroom is the five‑point wall‑mounted coat rack we used to hang fluffy white towels and robes just outside the bathroom - a piece purchased by the homeowner that generated quite the buzz as visitors toured the space.
As in past years, our workroom and design team handled every detail — from custom pillows and drapery to the styling moments that make each room feel personal and lived‑in.
Visit the Showhouse
Dates: June 13–July 5, 2026
Times: Wednesday, Friday, Saturday: 10am – 4pm
Thursday: 10am - 8pm
Monday, Tuesday: Closed
Location: 12 West 53rd Terrace, Kansas City, MO 64112
Tickets: Purchase online for $25 or at the door for $30
We hope you’ll join us in celebrating this extraordinary home and the remarkable legacy of the Symphony Designers’ Showhouse!
Until next time – Happy Decorating!
