Designing For Denver: Layering Warmth into Modern Spaces
Denver homes get all four seasons, and we believe your interiors should reflect that cozy-meets-cool vibe, too. Moody minimalism doesn't mean cold and stark—it means clean lines, soft light, and layered moments of warmth.
We’re sharing our top styling secrets to make your space feel less like a mountain cabin or white box and more like a hug in a high-altitude setting.
Start with neutrals that feel grounded — Think soft mushroom, deep stone, and creamy oat instead of plain white or gray. A sophisticated and modern color palette does not need to be (and almost cannot be) start white or grey or just BLAH tan-ish. Layered colors applies as forcefully as layered textured, accessories, and finishes.
3. Use art and objects with soul — Vintage books, ceramics from local makers, and black-and-white photography go a long way. You can, and should, proudly display and photos that you love. You know those 20,000 photos you have on your phone of your children? Or of that amazing spot in Paris you went to? PRINT IT. Go to Target. Get a frame that is matted. Put it up. The biggest obstacle to getting art in your home and loving it is owning WHAT you love. If color speaks to you, let it speak through your house. If totally neutrals makes you feel calm and in love with your space, own that. Just print the pictures. Buy the artwork. Make your house an ode to a life well lived.
4. Layer your lighting — A moody room needs more than overhead lights. Bring in lamps, sconces, and candles. I feel very strongly about lighting. LAYERED LIGHTING can become part of your grounding nightly and daily routine. There is a reason why so many montages of folks walking around their homes turning on and off lamps exist. It just is relaxing. I don’t make the rules, I just tell you about them. :)
Here are some affordable lamps, candle lamps, and sconces. (Go nuts and put up a sconce next to your bed. I dare you.)
5. Go bold with balance — Offset clean architectural lines with plush textiles and cozy nooks. When we are staging, we ALWAYS bring at least two console tables and one mirror that we can lean on top of it. It is incredible how a nook can be transformed with a console table and some items that feel intentionally sourced. An entryway that baffles you? Console table. A random nook in an office? Console table with a basket or poofs underneath. You don’t have to style your entire house at once. Start with one nook at a time. Start with that wall that makes you crazy. Just start. And, if you are really stuck, book an interior design consultation with us. We can get you started on the path towards a home that feels like you (and you don’t even have to be in Denver :)).
Minimalism doesn't have to feel sterile. With the right layers, it can feel lived-in, luxe, and uniquely you—especially in Denver where mountain light meets modern city living.