Est. 2011 · Brainerd, Minnesota
Built on Craft,
Rooted in Community
We're a family of designers, builders, and craftspeople who believe your home should tell your story — beautifully and built to last.
Our Story
From a Garage in Brainerd to 350+ Transformed Homes
Brainerd Design Studio started in 2011 when Marcus Brainerd remodeled his neighbor's kitchen on a handshake deal. The result was so good that the neighbor's friends called. Then their friends called. Fourteen years later, we're still answering.
What's never changed is our approach: listen first, design second, build with care. We're not a franchise or a big-box contractor. We're a tight-knit team of people who genuinely love what we do — and it shows in every finished space.
14
Years in Business
Company Timeline
2011
Founded in Brainerd
Marcus Brainerd started the studio out of his garage with a single kitchen remodel for a neighbor. Word spread fast.
2014
First Showroom Opens
Opened our first design showroom on Laurel Street, giving clients a hands-on space to explore materials, finishes, and layouts.
2017
100th Project Milestone
Completed our 100th project — a full kitchen and master bath renovation in Nisswa. The team celebrated with a bonfire.
2020
In-House Build Team
Brought all construction fully in-house, eliminating subcontractors and giving clients a single point of contact from start to finish.
2023
Design Award Winner
Named Best Kitchen Remodeler in Central Minnesota by the MN Home Builders Association for the third consecutive year.
2025
350+ Projects & Growing
Now serving Brainerd, Baxter, Nisswa, Crosslake, and the surrounding lakes region with a team of 18 dedicated professionals.
What We Stand For
Our Core Values
Client-First Always
Every decision we make starts with one question: what's best for the homeowner? We listen deeply before we ever pick up a pencil.
Craftsmanship Over Speed
We don't cut corners. Our in-house team takes the time to do things right — because you'll live with this space for decades.
Honest Transparency
No surprise invoices, no hidden fees. We give you a clear scope, a real timeline, and we stick to both.
Rooted in Brainerd
We live here, raise our families here, and take pride in making this community more beautiful — one home at a time.
The People Behind the Work
Meet Our Team
Every project is guided by people who genuinely care — about design, about craft, and about the families who'll live in these spaces.
Marcus Brainerd
Founder & Lead Designer
With 20+ years in residential design and construction, Marcus founded the studio with a simple belief: every homeowner deserves a space that truly fits their life. He leads every major design consultation personally.
Claire Hennessey
Senior Interior Designer
Claire brings a refined eye for color, texture, and material pairing. A graduate of the Minneapolis College of Art and Design, she specializes in bathroom transformations and whole-home cohesion.
Derek Olson
Construction Manager
Derek oversees every build from demo day to final walkthrough. With 15 years of hands-on construction experience, he ensures every project is built to last — on time and on budget.
Anya Kowalski
Flooring & Cabinetry Specialist
Anya is the studio's go-to expert for flooring systems and custom cabinetry. She has an encyclopedic knowledge of materials — from wide-plank hardwood to large-format porcelain — and a talent for matching them to any space.
Find Us
Visit Our Showroom in Brainerd, MN
Our design showroom is where ideas come to life. Walk through curated kitchen and bathroom vignettes, touch real materials, and meet with our designers in person. No appointment needed — though we love when you call ahead.
Address
412 Laurel Street, Brainerd, MN 56401
Phone
(218) 555-0192
hello@brainerddesignstudio.com
Showroom Hours
Mon–Fri 8am–5pm · Sat 9am–2pm · Sun Closed
Service Area
412 Laurel Street, Brainerd, MN 56401 · Serving the Brainerd Lakes Area
Let's Work Together
Ready to Start Your Project?
Whether you have a clear vision or just a feeling that something needs to change, we'd love to sit down and talk. Consultations are always free.