Some people are lucky enough to find the profession they were born to do. Tanner Morgan Sammons of Morgan Madison Design calls himself one of the few. “It is likely that I criticized the architecture of my crib and the pattern on my onesie. From as early as I can remember, I was drawn to things many might deem unnecessary, perhaps impractical, or too luxurious for my surroundings.” Sammons’s knack for luxury shines through his designs—so much so that his recent project transforming a cramped 100-year-old lake house in Ohio into a lively gentleman’s lake retreat caught the attention of House Beautiful.
If you take a look at the eight-page Winter 2023 House Beautiful feature, you’ll see his style is colorful and rich with detail. When Sammons isn’t busy perfecting interiors like the Ohio lakehouse, he’s enjoying his favorite parts of his home base in Kansas City, which he recently moved to from suburban Cleveland, Ohio. “I believe that Kansas City has so much to offer. It’s a great place to live, work, and I especially feel it is a great place to be an entrepreneur—not to mention people are so kind and supportive. While I am new(er) to KC it very quickly felt like home. I travel quite a bit for work, and Kansas City’s central location is perfect.”
Tanner’s essentials…
Local Artist: I love the work of Tom Corbin, and I have for years. I love the style of his figures and the way his bronze seems to feel alive. Each figure almost has a personality that really comes through subtle details, such as how they are posed.
Self-Care Sesh: I love going to Hollyday Med Spa + Aesthetics! A favorite is the OxyGlow Facial.
Hidden Gem: Kansas City Public Library’s Central Library branch is a gorgeous historic building with beautiful features and furnishings—and terrific resources for the public as well. A treasure that not enough people know about or appreciate.
Nightcap: I am loving Verbena’s espresso martini. Earl’s Premier also has a frozen gin and tonic that is just so good. I know it should be considered out of season, but you must try it!
KC Scent: Salt and Sage by Mixture, which is based in Merriam, Kansas.
Lunch Stop: The food at Caffetteria Modern Cafe is always so good. I also love the atmosphere, and it is a great place for a lunch meeting or to connect with a friend. I love the Sunny-Side-Up bowl and the tacos con pollo.
Local Maker: I consider myself slightly cooler because of knowing Sierra Otto owner of Sierra Winter Jewelry. If you don’t follow SWJ on Instagram, you must
(@sierrawinterjewelry). Her local design roots have quickly garnered national attention. I love how wearable Sierra’s designs are, and if you know me, you know that I love a little modern Southwestern flair.
Out on the Town: Kansas City has so many incredible museums. Of course, The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art, and The National Museum of Toys and Miniatures, but The Kansas City Museum is a must if you have not visited. It is newly renovated and full of Kansas City history.