Blue Door Designs
Our story
Blue Door Designs was born from a lifelong dream of entrepreneurship, a bold leap of faith, and an unwavering passion for creating beautiful, intentional spaces. Founded by Traci Baldus, the studio emerged from a desire to blend artistry with purpose — crafting interiors that reflect the people who live in them and enhancing the way they feel in their everyday environments.
Blue Door Designs is known for its refined aesthetic, personalized approach, and dedication to elevating the way people experience their homes — Because great design is not just about how a space looks, but how it lives. We are dedicated to turning ordinary spaces into inspired reflections of the people who inhabit them - so your home becomes your favorite place to be.
MEET OUR DESIGN TEAM
Traci Baldus
Interior Designer & Founder
Welcome to Blue Door Designs! I’m Traci Baldus, a seasoned interior designer based in Urbandale, Iowa, with over 25 years of experience. In the fall of 2022, as my twins headed off to college, I knew it was the perfect time to finally launch my own interior design firm and turn my long-held dream into reality.A native of Iowa, I grew up in Cedar Falls and now reside in West Des Moines with my husband, Ben. Our twins, Riley and Holden, are currently attending college. Our family also includes two lovable Boston Terriers, Birdie and Pogo.
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My love for creativity and my desire to help people fall in love with their spaces are at the heart of what I do. With a degree in Interior Design from the University of Northern Iowa, I've spent decades immersed in the design world. During this time, I managed a to-the-trade showroom while building a loyal clientele and honing my skills.
I specialize in residential projects, particularly remodels, where I transform homes with a perfect blend of style and functionality. I’m especially strong at space planning and have a knack for understanding my clients' needs, translating them into personalized, functional designs. My commitment to personalization ensures every project reflects my clients' unique tastes and visions. I believe that a well-designed space should evoke an emotional response, making my designs not just beautiful but also deeply personal.
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Outside of design, I enjoy traveling, spending time with family and friends, attending live music events, and finding a great patio to relax on. Whether it’s a full home remodel or a small design project, my goal is to leave a lasting impression and help you fall in love with your space all over again.
Allison Thoen
Interior Design Assistant
With over 5 years of experience in the interior design industry, Allison brings a diverse portfolio of residential work and a keen eye for detail to every project. A graduate of Iowa State University with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Interior Design, she has developed a strong foundation in both the technical and creative aspects of design, allowing her to approach each space with a balance of function and style.
Originally from Northwest Iowa, Allison now resides in Des Moines with her husband Justin, daughter Charlotte, and their beloved cat Lulu. In 2025 she joined Blue Door Designs - though her familiarity with Traci and her collaborative work style made the transition seamless. Their shared design values and mutual respect for client-centered creativity have only strengthened the firm's cohesive approach.
​Allison is driven by a sincere commitment to making each client's vision the highest priority. Her meticulous attention to detail, love for organization, and dedication to excellence play a vital role in ensuring that every project at Blue Door Designs runs smoothly, efficiently, and with the highest level of professionalism. She is proud to be part of a team that believes great design isn't just about aesthetics - it's about creating spaces that truly feel like home.
Birdie & Pogo
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