Hold onto your laundry detergent caps, folks, because the Short North Tour of Homes & Gardens just got a dazzling new addition, and it’s sure to be an absolute blast—of color, that is!
This year, visitors will get a rare glimpse inside the home of Bruce Siple, a creative mastermind whose mid-century modern apartment is a kaleidoscope of art, kitsch, and, most notably, plastic.
Located in the iconic Thurber Tower (aka the “Mary Tyler Moore Building”), this residence was originally designed for single, young professional women, but now serves as the vibrant, maximalist haven of Bruce and his wife, Donna.
From the moment you step inside, you’re greeted by a riot of color and a collection that defies description—though we’ll do our best to try.
Plastic Fantastique!
If you’ve ever wondered what would happen if a bowerbird had access to a vintage toy shop and a pile of 45 rpm records, you’ll find your answer in Bruce’s home. The centerpiece of this whimsical space is a 17’ x 9’ wall entirely dedicated to his collection of plastic items. We’re not just talking the odd knick-knack here—this is a full-blown plastic paradise, with picnicware, bottle caps, broken taillights, and vinyl records, all arranged into intricate, eye-popping displays of symmetry and color.
Bruce’s palette of “circus colors” (think vibrant yellows, reds, oranges, pinks, and greens) creates a spectacle that could make even the most die-hard minimalist crack a smile. His displays are carefully curated, and yes, you read that right—he’s been collecting plastic since childhood. Most kids grow out of their toy phases, but not Bruce. His artistic vision has only expanded, evolving into a full-fledged passion that takes center stage in his apartment.
Coffee Table (Of) Dreams
Forget your typical coffee table setup—Bruce’s take on this living room staple is like nothing you’ve ever seen. He started with a basic glass-top table and gradually added layers of glass, each one supported by—you guessed it—laundry detergent caps.
The result? A mandala of tiny plastic objects that look like they’ve sprung to life from the pages of a psychedelic coloring book. From toy cars to plastic flatware, each layer is a new discovery, and the whole thing is a conversation piece that’s sure to leave visitors in awe.
Art Everywhere, All at Once
While the plastic displays are certainly eye-catching, Bruce’s creativity extends far beyond his collection of colorful trinkets. His home doubles as a gallery for his drawings, which are scattered throughout the space.
He’s always sketching, leaving his mark on everything from restaurant napkins to receipts, which he proudly displays around the apartment. His signature, “Jippo,” can be found on each one of his works, a nod to his playful and imaginative spirit.
As if that weren’t enough, Bruce also has a small studio space where he continues to work on new art pieces daily. Despite having downsized his collection when he moved to the Short North, Bruce has no plans of slowing down his creative output anytime soon. His work draws from a vivid imagination, and while he could certainly render a hyper-realistic scene, he much prefers to dive into the absurd.
READ MORE: Step Into Short North’s Most Gorgeous Spaces at the Homes & Gardens Tour
A Dusty Job, But Someone’s Gotta Do It
Now, you might be wondering—how on earth does someone keep this technicolor dream house clean? Bruce has it covered. He relies on an electronic dust filter to keep the buildup at bay, and once a year, he undertakes the Herculean task of removing every single piece of plastic from his displays, washing them by hand, and carefully putting them all back in place. It can take up to six weeks, but Bruce’s dedication to his craft is nothing short of inspiring.
The Love Story Behind the Plastic
And for those curious about Donna’s thoughts on living in this playful plastic wonderland, rest assured—she’s just as enthusiastic about it as Bruce. In fact, when she first stepped into his plastic-lined apartment back in 1988, she declared, “This is the coolest place I have ever been.” And the rest, as they say, is history.
So, if you’re looking for something a little offbeat during the Short North Tour of Homes & Gardens, don’t miss this colorful, kitschy masterpiece. Whether you’re a fan of mid-century modern style, vintage toys, or just enjoy seeing creativity in full bloom, Bruce’s home is guaranteed to be a highlight. Just be prepared—you might leave with a sudden urge to start your own collection of bottle caps and picnicware!
To learn more about the Short North Tour of Home & Gardens, please click here.
