When Ryan and Jenny Wilkins decided to build their dream home, it wasn’t just about creating a beautiful space—it was about designing a home that truly fit their family’s needs and lifestyle. Along with their daughters, 9-year-old Poppy and 7-year-old Nina, and their beloved Goldendoodle, the Wilkins family built a home that seamlessly blended functionality, warmth, and timeless design.
The Decision to Build
For years, the Wilkins family lived in a 1970s two-story home in Midtown Omaha, undergoing renovations one level at a time. Jenny, passionate about home design, had always been excited about improving their space. However, after visiting the Street of Dreams, she realized that no amount of renovating could change fundamental limitations—ceiling heights, hallway widths, and overall layout. The only way to get exactly what they wanted was to build from the ground up.
They found the perfect lot: a half-acre property in the Westside School District with a small, 1,300-square-foot ranch-style house built in the 1950s. Instead of attempting a renovation that wouldn't meet their needs, they chose to tear down the existing home and start fresh. However, they were committed to sustainability and partnered with Habitat for Humanity and Johnson Deconstruct to donate and repurpose as much as possible. Everything from flooring and doors to light fixtures and plumbing was salvaged, ensuring that nothing usable went to waste.
Designing the Dream Home
The Wilkins family took their time crafting a design that balanced classic elements with modern convenience. Jenny focused on incorporating timeless materials like brick and natural stone while ensuring the home felt airy, welcoming, and ideal for both everyday living and entertaining.
One of the standout features was inspired by their previous home—a sunroom with outdated decor, but stunning natural light. They reimagined it in their new home with large windows, skylights, and an elegant, sophisticated feel. The upstairs was designed with their daughters in mind, complete with built-in study desks, a lofted living room, and a Jack-and-Jill bathroom that was designed to grow with them—featuring separate sinks, a shared shower, and pull-out step stools for their early years, but also a makeup vanity for when they got older.
A Home for Living and Gathering
More than anything, the Wilkins wanted a home that worked hard for their family. They love hosting gatherings, whether it is a small group of close friends or a 40- to 50-person community event. They prioritized a warm and inviting atmosphere with cozy neutral tones, natural wood flooring, and an open, flowing layout.
“As much as I loved stylish design statements, we wanted to ensure the home still felt approachable,” Jenny explained. “I never wanted a space that felt like a museum where people were afraid to sit down. Our home is an extension of our care and connection with the people in our lives.”
The home also accommodates their evolving work life. Ryan and Jenny work from home, and while Ryan hadn’t initially worked remotely when they built the house, having a dedicated office space turned out to be invaluable.
Beyond functionality for their family, they designed with their daughters’ friends in mind. They wanted to create the kind of home that kids loved to be in—a welcoming, fun space where Poppy and Nina’s friends would always feel comfortable spending time.
A Passion Turned Career: SWOON Home + Design
Throughout the home-building process, Jenny’s passion for design grew. She worked as a dental hygienist before stepping away to focus on raising her daughters. But through this experience, she gained the confidence to turn her love of home design into a business. She later founded SWOON Home + Design, a home remodeling and interior design company that helps clients transform their living spaces.
“Building or renovating a home can feel overwhelming,” Jenny said. “For every decision you make, there are 67 questions you don’t feel qualified to answer. I love helping people navigate those details and create homes they truly love.”
Her passion even extended into real estate, earning her a license to assist others in buying and selling homes. She understood that a home wasn’t just a financial investment—it was deeply personal. Her experiences equipped her with insights that helped her clients feel confident in their choices, making the process less daunting and more fulfilling.
A Home Built for the Future
For the Wilkins family, their home is more than just a house—it's a space designed for making memories. From thoughtful design choices to a commitment to sustainability and community, their journey showcases how a home can reflect both personal values and functional needs. With Jenny’s growing design business and their daughters thriving in their new space, this home has truly become the foundation for their family’s future.
This article originally appeared in the May 2025 issue of Omaha Home Magazine. To receive the magazine, click here to subscribe.
