Cathers Home Furniture + Interior Design

Aspen Design House

BUILDER

Silverado Builders

Aspen is an exceptional mountain community that is situated high in the Rocky Mountains in west-central Colorado.  The crown jewel of the Roaring Fork Valley, the vibrant town is surrounded by spectacular mountain ranges and sprawling public lands.  It is renowned for its arts and culture scene, rich culinary offerings, and countless outdoor adventures—not to mention being a hot spot for celebrities and the host of the annual Winter X Games.  

“Aspen is so magical, and I’m not the only one who would say this,” says Cynthia Wark, who first visited the mountain community on a Colorado road trip she took with a girlfriend.  Wark and her husband, Rick, were contemplating a move away from Texas, so she brought back Aspen real estate brochures for them to peruse.  “Within a few weeks we bought a house in Aspen,” she remembers.  “Not knowing much about it, it’s fair to say that Aspen called us here.” 

The Warks purchased a classic Aspen Mountain home on a private golf course located a few miles outside of town that had great bones and terrific views.  But the interior needed to be renovated to better suit the couple’s taste and lifestyle.

“They are very cool, modern, stylish and put together, and we needed to create a space that reflected their personality and gave them a place to entertain,” explains interior designer Denise Taylor, M.A.  Allied ASID, who worked for Cathers Home Furniture + Interior Design, which was hired to transform the structure into a modern mountain home.  Fellow designers Amanda Furlong, ASID NCIDQ, and Geneva “Gigi” Podolak Knox, Allied ASID, were also on the project team.  After the Wark’s renovation wrapped up, Taylor would eventually go on to found Aspen Design House, a full-service bespoke interior design company in Aspen.  

The goal of the Wark’s project was to work with the existing architecture, including massive fireplaces, hulking beams, and beautiful high-end woodwork, while redefining the spaces in a warm, inviting way.  “You don’t always inherit such nice woodwork, and once we took the yellow out of the walls, which we painted a bright white on the entire main level, the wood was really beautiful,” says Taylor.  

Paul Cathers, founder of Cathers Home Furniture + Interior Design, notes, “Without looking like we were trying to turn an older home into a contemporary one, we were trying to incorporate the sense of place with the wood and then clean the lines up to make it a more peaceful environment.” He adds, “Cynthia and Rick’s project was fantastic in taking the older architecture and moving it into a warmer, cleaner-lined feel with organic elements that turned the interior into a space that flows with the architecture.  The kitchen, in particular, turned out beautifully using the warm gray-brown tones.”

Taylor agrees that the kitchen—which was reconfigured by relocating the island, closing in one of the doorways from the garage, creating a huge pantry, adding luxe appliances, replacing the cabinets, and updating the countertops—was a turning point for the project.  “The design behind the kitchen is very rustic-modern,” she describes.  “We wanted to make it look like it came with the house, but we needed to do a major overhaul.  It was the tipping point for the home’s transformation.”  

Cathers says this project is a good example of elevating existing elements rather than tearing down and starting from scratch.   “A lot of times we don’t have to change everything; instead, you can paint the cabinets, change the countertops, and incorporate the architecture into the design with a cleaner palette and pops of color in warm art, rugs, and pillows,” he describes.  “When you have a lot of darks and lights and contrasts like the house did before the remodel, it can be overwhelming.  You want the space to be the sanctuary where you can have a calm, cool existence.  That was our goal, and we nailed it.” 

Some of the furnishings—like the huge bison over the great room fireplace and the massive iron bed in the primary bedroom—were pieces that came with the purchase of the home that the designers incorporated.  Additional furnishings like mohair chairs, cowhide ottomans, velvet couches with nail head trim, leather wing chairs, wooden and metal tables, and silk throw pillows “for a little glam,” completed the look.  

To complement the design, the team resourced amazing artwork from the local galleries—some of it, like a large Gordon Brown painting in the living room, to fit the massive scale of the home.  “When you have a house this grand, it needed to feel like Kevin Costner coming home to Yellowstone Ranch,” quips Podolak Knox.  “Cynthia and Rick really wanted us to bring in artwork to match the house, so we borrowed pieces to hang on the walls to see what they wanted to move forward with.” She says Keating Fine Art Gallery in nearby Basalt was particularly generous and allowed the team to take a few paintings on approval.  

While the upstairs is dramatic and more “mountain-esque”, the walk-out lower level, which was inspired by the iconic Hotel Jerome in Aspen, has a cozier vibe.  “When you have a house this big you need a different feel in different spaces,” says Podolak Knox.  “It took a little convincing because Cynthia and Rick loved the upstairs so much, but we pushed them to go in a whole different direction downstairs, and it really turned out great.” 

The team added a soffit to the ceiling to create a perimeter of light around the room.  The existing bar was repainted a dark gray and the middle cabinets were removed and replaced with a custom mosaic, glass shelves, and lighting. Teardrop-shaped liquid mercury pendants hang like jewelry over the bar, adding a chic flair, and the swivel bar stools invite connection with the rest of the room.  Fluffy, faux fur chairs with backs that don’t extend all the way to the ground— creating the illusion that they are floating in the room — are set up in a conversation circle surrounding a sleek leather ottoman.  The existing pool table was re-felted in gray to match the new room, and a custom light that imitates icicles hovers above.  

Cynthia says the design team did an amazing job.  “I didn’t know what I wanted, but I put my trust in the team, and they were lovely to work with.  The results far exceeded our expectations.”

OPENING SPREAD: Using existing structures, the ranch camp features a right-sized main house (on the left) and a guest cabin (right) that is custom-made for entertaining. 

Nestled between two river valleys and bordered by the Gallatin National Forest on three sides, this 8,100-acre Montana ranch offers a little bit of everything in the way of geographical features: sweeping views of the Absaroka Mountain Range, lush valley vistas, tributaries and ponds, and thick stands of pine trees.  Herds of elk flourish here because the surrounding peaks form a natural barrier that protects the wildlife and the ranch’s cattle, and fish abound in the creeks that cut through the ranch.

The reclaimed wall in the stairway is a lovely contrast to the whitewashed ceiling that brightens up the space. The iron chandelier from Ralph Lauren features leather straps

“It’s one of the premier ranches in the area,” says Kathy Tatom of Tatom Design.  “It’s a real-life Yellowstone ranch for sure, and one of my favorite projects to date.  It’s really amazing.” 

Tatom was part of the team that was assembled to breathe new life into the main ranch camp structures, including a complete overhaul of the unpretentiously elegant two-bedroom main lodge and a reconfiguration of an existing barn that was relocated and turned into a three-bedroom plus bunk room guest house.  The top half of the barn was retrofitted over a new lower level to create the spacious guest home that is perfect for entertaining and hosting retreats.  

Adding new doors and windows throughout the homes invites the amazing Montana scenery inside.

The reclaimed cabinetry and timbers carry the rustic elements into the guest cabin’s modern kitchen.

LEFT: The pretty hand-painted Tabarka tile goes from floor to ceiling in the powder room, giving the smaller space a ton of character. RIGHT: The guest home entryway hints at the story of the structure with reclaimed walls, perfectly imperfect timbers, and loads of natural light thanks to new windows and doors.

The guest house features a 12-foot-long dining table, a large sectional with a cowhide ottoman for gathering around the fire, and an antler chandelier crafted from sheds found on the ranch.  The massive kitchen boasts a 14-foot-long island surrounded by sturdy barstools.  In both residences, a lot of glass was brought in to frame the views and create a brilliance of natural light.  The interior spaces were further brightened by white-washing the tongue-and-groove ceilings, and walls that were not clad in wood were painted a soothing cream color to make the interior space softer.    

It’s all about the view in the main home’s primary bedroom where two leather and Native American upholstered swivel chairs sit in front of the picture window.

The owners are warm and welcoming people who wanted their home and guest house to be cozy and inviting.  “The design of the main house and guest cabin pays homage to the West and to the ranch’s heritage, and Native American culture also played a part with rugs, artifacts, and artwork that we used,” Tatom describes.  

Centre Sky Architecture was selected to design the overall master plan as well as hone in on a specific aesthetic that would tie all the individual structures together.  The rustic ranch style of the main lodge and guest cabin was reinforced with the use of some of the existing materials on the ranch, including original wood and metals that were salvaged from old barns around the property.  These authentic pieces were expertly combined with new materials and finished to blend into the historic ranch theme, where needed.  A new garage and wellhouse—constructed of a mix of vintage and new materials finished to look aged to fit in—were also added to the ranch camp.  

This welcoming guest bedroom overlooks the new pond that was added to the main camp’s landscape.

“There were several existing structures where the main camp was located, and we opted to use them,” explains Jamie Daugaard, Principal of Centre Sky Architecture.  “It can be hard to work with existing structures because you’re stuck with the existing condition and size.  But we worked through it, and we ended up with a good building layout for the owners.  It turned out really well.” 

Soaking your cares away while soaking in the spectacular scenery – it’s all possible in the main house primary bathroom, which features a beautiful taupe tub.

The ranch camp overlooks a pristine pond nestled into a flower-filled meadow in the foreground and the breathtaking mountain scenery beyond.  The building layout contains many outdoor spaces—including a large roof-covered patio adorned with trusses and timbers on the main house—that forge connectivity to the outdoors and between the structures themselves.  

“We had a lot of discussions with the owners about creating the external material personality and staying true to what was already there,” remembers Daugaard.  “The intimate spaces between the main ranch camp structures serve many purposes – outdoor living, weather circulation, a reprieve from the wind and sun, and a place to simply spend time looking at the amazing views.” 

The beautiful main house is a smaller, cozy space for the owners who invite friends and family to enjoy their own space in the next-door guest house.

The original homestead cabin, which sits closer to the ranch entry gate, was preserved for posterity as part of this project.  “It’s amazing that this structure is still standing, and we wanted to make sure it will last forever,” Tatom says.  “It’s really cool to see the original homestead; it’s like a little house on the prairie.” 

There are a number of other structures strewn throughout the ranch property that enable exploration of the land.  These include a mountaintop tower complete with sleeping quarters that offer a bird’s eye view of the entire ranch, as well as dry cabins, accessible by horseback or UTV, for hunting, fishing, and wildlife viewing.

“The diversity of the ranch is rather unique with mountain ranges, meadows, timber, big skies, and water everywhere,” remarks Daugaard.  “Beauty oozes from every direction, and you’re in a place that’s hardly been touched.  It’s really remarkable and quite peaceful.”

The fireplace in the living room of the main house goes through to the back porch, providing year-round ambience and warmth. The antler wreath is custom-made from sheds collected on the ranch. 

ARCHITECT
Centre Sky Architecture

INTERIOR DESIGNER
Tatom Design

 OPENING SPREAD: This spectacular generational home features elements, both inside and out, that reference its natural surroundings. 

Beaver Creek is a luxurious, family-friendly alpine village tucked into the heart of the Rocky Mountains of central Colorado.  Beaver Creek Mountain is renowned not only for its stunning natural beauty, but also for its welcoming atmosphere. In the wintertime, there are more than 2,000 acres of skiable terrain to explore at Beaver Creek Resort, which features three distinct base areas.  In the summertime, the trails system spans over 62 miles of adrenaline-quenching adventure in the form of mountain biking, horseback riding, and hiking.  The area also boasts a number of championship golf courses.  The hub of the resort—Beaver Creek Village—features year-round events, shopping, and dining.  

It’s no wonder that a couple originally from Texas with ties to California chose to build their generational dream home at Beaver Creek.  For many years, they had a smaller Beaver Creek property where they vacationed with their three kids.  But they established deeper roots in the area when they found the perfect spot for a mountain home where their children and grandchildren can also gather.   

With the help of Resort Concepts, a prominent community developer and master builder of hundreds of luxury residences, the original home on the lot was torn down, and the plans for their timeless custom mountain home were rolled out.  Vail interior designer Courtney St.  John brought her fine arts background and conscious consideration of the full design process to bear on the project.  

“The owners had other contemporary homes in California, so this transitional mountain style was something new to them,” St.  John explains.  “They understood the decision-making, and we worked through everything down to the sheen on the floor, the millwork, and the tile patterns and designs—really every aspect was carefully considered throughout the house.  It was a lengthy process because we left no detail unturned, but it was so fun because the owners were so engaged.” 

The great room illustrates St. John’s skill for combining new and antique items to create a layered space that is interesting, inviting, and elegant.

St.  John says the couple wanted the main living areas to be sophisticated and elevated, yet comfortable and cozy.  The lower level is more fun and playful with brightly colored art, an antique pool table, a large shuffleboard table, a wet bar, and a sunken lounge area for curling up on the couch to watch television.  

“Over the course of a couple of years, the design definitely evolved,” remembers St.  John.  “But it was really guided by the architecture and a lot of natural elements—stone, wood, and iron—and taking on more of a real mountain feel.”  

St.  John took a lot of inspiration for the design from the home’s beautiful surroundings.  “The textures, colors, and materials are all very natural,” she describes.  “You can really see the ‘element of the hand’ in the stone, reclaimed wood, and iron finishes.  Everything is very custom, which makes the spaces unique.” 

The lower level is designed for fun and entertainment with brightly colored art and furnishings that add a playful pop of color.  

The breathtaking views are on full display in the great room, where soaring reclaimed tongue-and-groove ceilings and stately architectural beams wrapped in iron strapping create a gorgeous frame for the mountain vistas.  The home boasts eight Colorado moss rock stone fireplaces, each with its own unique design that takes into account key stones and how they best complement the rooms they adorn.  Reclaimed wide-planked oak flooring connects the spaces throughout the residence, which was created with family in mind.  

Each of the couple’s children has their own room, and there is a made-for-fun bunk room for the grandsons, as well as a feminine bedroom for the granddaughter.  The entry to the primary bedroom—complete with a powder room, full bathroom, and sitting area— features a custom door wrapped in leather.  

The powder room in the primary retreat has wainscoting and chair rail that is fashioned out of leather belts—one of which has the owners’ last name stamped on it.  “With a fine art background, I really enjoy conceptualizing the space and the design, and I like to think outside the box, taking inspiration from various elements to weave into the design,” says St.  John.  “For this project, we took inspiration not only from nature, but also from the architecture and combined that with the owners’ lifestyle and aesthetic.”

The elegant dining room is a refined space that showcases touches of the West in the crystal antler chandelier and a bronze horse sculpture in front of the window

Multiple shopping trips with the couple to design centers and showrooms in Los Angeles and a trip to the antique shows in Roundtop, Texas, enabled St.  John to layer in antique furnishings along with new pieces to create a collected look.   “It’s very eclectic and feels like there’s history even though it’s a new space,” she explains.  The owners are art collectors so there are many paintings, bronze sculptures, and other artifacts included in the design.

This custom elk antler chandelier is 12 feet tall and hangs suspended over the remarkable flagstone staircase.

The couple’s niece lives nearby and found a plethora of elk sheds on her rural property that were ultimately used to create a 12-foot-long antler chandelier that hangs vertically in the stairwell, which showcases a custom iron banister and flagstone stairs.  “It was incredible to see that stairwell constructed,” St.  John remarks.  “Each step is chiseled out underneath to accommodate a step light, and the steel framework makes the stairs appear to be suspended in the space.”

The window over the copper farmhouse sink hinges open to connect the spacious kitchen to the outdoor dining area.

In the kitchen, saddle strapping and hinges on the reclaimed oak cabinetry, along with iron mesh between the antique seeded glass doors, create a refined rustic look.  The double ovens are built into stone walls, and a see-through rock fireplace connects the spacious eating area in the kitchen with the formal dining room.  

The sitting room off the kitchen is the perfect place to take in the views of Beaver Creek.

The beautiful ombre mosaic tile in the primary bath – which also features inlay metal in the cabinetry – is custom-made. 

This masculine bedroom features a massive stone fireplace, reclaimed timbers on the ceiling, a reclaimed wood built-in bed, and a leather-tiled headboard that stretches all the way to the ceiling.

The powder room illustrates the many textures throughout the home with a metal cabinet, petrified wood stone sink, wooden wainscotting, and suede walls with nail head details fashioned after a Navajo Germantown blanket. 

The timeless design is one this family no doubt will enjoy for generations.  “The hope is the home ages well with patina, and with so much life being lived and so many memories being made in the home, I can imagine it only gets better with time,” predicts St.  John.  “The material selection contributed to the timelessness—clay tiles and natural stone, ironwork, stone masonry, wood, leather, woven fabrics, wool rugs, really natural materials.  All of that combines to create a timeless space and aesthetic.”

ARCHITECT & BUILDER
Resort Concepts 

INTERIOR DESIGNER
Courtney St. John Studio

OPENING SPREAD: The remodel lightened up the original space and capitalizes on the breathtaking views of the Spanish Peak Mountains.

Randy and Gretchen Kendrick both grew up skiing, and now it is one of the ways they enjoy spending time together away from their busy jobs as CEO and COO of the successful industrial real estate firm, Xebec, which Randy founded in 1996.  Their search for a mountain retreat started in Colorado and Utah, but they were turned off by the crowds, so they set their sights on Jackson Hole, Wyoming, or Big Sky, Montana.  “We took a road trip and stopped in Jackson first, but all of the places we looked at were too far from the ski resort,” Randy remembers.  “So, we came to Big Sky, found this place, and fell in love.” 

Their three-level home, which is built elegantly into the topography, is an original production build in the resort community of Spanish Peaks Mountain Club with beautiful views of the Spanish Peaks Mountains.  “The way the sun lights up Spanish Peaks in the afternoon is a stunning effect,” describes Randy.  

While the home’s location was perfect, the layout and dated finishes didn’t quite suit their needs.  The couple loves to cook and entertain, so they knew they needed to expand the kitchen.  They also wanted to incorporate some elements that would reflect their work in logistics development and real estate, including stunning structural steel I-beams and a feature wall of perfectly cut steel plates affixed with high-tech flush screws laid in an attractive brickwork pattern in the new mudroom.  “It is really remarkable and ties in so nicely with the structural steel,” Randy says.  

Another catalyst for the remodel was an amazing three-piece rawhide chandelier that resembles Native American drums in various sizes that the Kendricks thought would make a stunning statement dangling from the massive log at the peak of the ceiling in the great room.  “That really got us started,” Randy says of the signature chandelier, which is just one of the many Western touches that makes the home unique.  

The chandelier hangs above a beautiful custom dining table, which was a collaboration between Cameron Marcoux of Montana Metal Art Company and woodworking artist Jesse Vint.  The table features a beautiful wooden top and steel legs and is flanked by upholstered gray chairs.  “Jesse is an incredible woodworking artist who is known for taking plain slices of wood that he floats into resin—it’s like the wood comes alive,” says Randy.  

These gorgeous cowhide chairs in the living room were a request from the owner. The artwork on the reclaimed mantel is by musician Chris Coleman—a tribute to the owner’s love of music and his extensive guitar collection.

Randy designed the glass-and-steel wine wall in the dining room, which stores best-loved bottles at a precise temperature and angle.  The beautiful custom cabinetry surrounds a captivating piece of buffalo artwork by Southwestern contemporary artist David Fredrick Riley who is known for tackling traditional subject matter in a modern way that balances realism with abstraction.  The painting is centered between and above climate-controlled custom wine cabinets.  The Kendricks liked the wine wall so much that they replicated it in their home in Newport, California.  

The couple assembled a team of professionals with deep roots in the region to make their vision for the remodel a reality.  It included architects Jamie Daugaard and Mariya Provost of Centre Sky Architecture, interior designer Kathy Tatom of Tatom Design, and builder Taylor Graham.  

The new palette of textures and colors in the home enlighten the initial space while still maintaining the rustic Montana feel.  Original logs were stripped down and refinished in a soft tannish-gray hue, and all of the planking on the ceiling was painted a fresh white color.  Reclaimed woods were brought in for the posts, ceiling planks, and cabinetry.  All of this is offset by fresh new white oak flooring and resized windows and doors that usher in the natural light and frame the gorgeous mountain views.  

“We tried to marry up soft white colors with the grays and tans of stone and reclaimed woods, and then you get that black punch from the raw steel, which is very live and interactive,” says Daugaard.  “All of these elements mesh together to give this home a really cool look.” 

The owners designed this custom wine wall that showcases the enchanting buffalo artwork by southwestern contemporary artist David Fredrick Riley.

Interior designer Tatom agrees.  “I love how we lightened it and made it updated but in keeping with the Western Montana flair.  We kept it warm with the steel, stone, and reclaimed timbers—it’s rustic but updated elegance.  Everything is very natural.” 

Those rustic Montana elements are on full display in the kitchen, which was expanded to make it “live bigger” and be more functional for the couple.  The heart of the home features reclaimed barnwood custom cabinets, a handmade creamy white subway backsplash, and a custom steel hood that compliments the steel wall feature in the entryway.  Tufted leather swivel barstools add a sophisticated element, while the honed and leathered granite countertops in a dark gray shade are both pretty and practical.  “We absolutely love those countertops,” says Randy.  “They have this matte finish that you can set pots on, but you can’t mess it up.” 

The hand-forged stairway leads to the reimagined master suite. The wall above the stairway was the perfect perch for the massive piece of art by renowned photographer David Yarrow.

The home’s original front porch was enclosed to create a sizeable and functional mud room that became a grand entryway for the home.  This space is full of windows, lots of storage, and includes a feature steel wall that hints at the industrial elements that are to come throughout the house.  

“The beauty was we only added five feet in two directions in the original kitchen and then enclosed the front porch and all of the sudden it’s this grand kitchen, dining, and entryway,” explains Tatom. “This beautifully updated Mountain cabin takes on a modern look while still maintaining the rustic feel of the West.  We worked hard to source reclaimed materials, Navajo rugs, and local art to create a unique Montana experience,” she describes.  

The upstairs bedrooms and loft in the original floorplan boasted the best views in the home, so that area was reconfigured to create a grand primary suite, complete with an exercise area, sitting room, en suite, and a spacious home office.  “When COVID hit, we had this beautiful office, and it was a game changer for us,” Randy recalls.  “Our business really took off during COVID, and we needed the remote workspace in order to keep up with the demand.” 

The original porch was enclosed to create this beautiful and highly functional entry room.

The rustic theme is carried into the master suite, which boasts reclaimed timbers in the ceiling, a Montana stone fireplace, and a custom reindeer antler chandelier.  To protect the views in this new suite but still allow for privacy, a glass and steel separator was installed at the top of the pretty stairway, which features reclaimed timbers finished with a warm brown wax and hand-forged steel railing.  

The master bathroom is a spa-like space with just the right amount of rustic elements. The tub sits atop a collection of smooth black stones that were hand-placed to create a Zen-like effect. 

Artwork is as central to the home as the natural mountain touches are.  In addition to the original buffalo painting, a huge David Yarrow original photograph adorns the stairwell—one of only a few of the artist’s works that is printed in color.  In the living room, a piece by musician and artist Chris Coleman of the bands Kings of Leon and Luna Halo is perched on a reclaimed timber mantel, a nod to Randy’s passion for playing guitar and his extensive vintage guitar collection.  

“This house has been such a blessing.  Everyone that comes in it is impressed—it’s like they just don’t expect it,” says Randy.  

Pendleton linens add a Western flair to the sophisticated primary suite.

OPENING SPREAD: Miller Time Ranch is an hour from the family’s primary residence—over sometimes treacherous mountain roads—so they use a helicopter to make the trip safer and faster.  

To say Lisa and Mike Miller have an entrepreneurial spirit is an understatement.  She was a busy social worker for the state of Utah, and he was a firefighter with a house painting side hustle when they decided to quit their jobs and make family a priority.  The couple started a successful land development and construction company, which they built from the ground up.  What they didn’t know how to do, they figured out.  

“We’d go to Home Depot and buy books about how to do tile and how to build a deck,” Lisa explains.  “We just taught ourselves.” 

The twin Restoration Hardware tables HAVE a finish that complements the white oak tongue and groove on the ceiling seat 12 people each.  The beaded chandeliers add a touch of elegance.

The company was a huge success and now focuses primarily on building communities and selling them to investors in Utah, Idaho, Texas, and Arizona.  Since they got married, Mike had always dreamed of owning a cattle ranch.  So, once again, the couple—who had no experience in ranching or farming—called on their can-do attitude to create their destiny.

“We have five boys and a daughter and growing up in suburban America it can be very difficult to teach your kids the value of hard work and really get that work ethic as part of their character,” Lisa says.  “That was important for us, and we thought if we have a ranch it would be a place we could go with our family to work really hard.” 

The built-in window seats, decorated with custom-made grain-sack pillows, look out over the front of the ranch in the formal sitting room.  

It took over a year for them to find the perfect spot—a ranch about an hour away from their primary residence in Provo.  The property has fresh springs, a pond, and a portion of the San Pitch River running through it—all important features for creating a working cattle ranch.  In conducting their due diligence, they realized the property also had a familiar history.  

“Everything started coming up in my great uncle’s name,” explains Lisa.  “My grandma’s youngest brother had lived on that property from 1968-2004 when he passed away.  It meant a lot to be able to bring the ranch back into the family.”

The 500-acre spread had multiple existing homes, so there were places for the new ranch manager and ranch hand to live, as well as a home for the family to stay at when they were doing improvements to the land, which needed lots of TLC.  They spent the first year repairing fences and equipment and hauling away tons of debris and manure.  

“It was a lot of work, and it was a great opportunity for us to have our kids be involved in that,” Lisa remembers.  “They knew every weekend we were going down to the ranch they’d be working hard.” But it wasn’t all work and no play.  “We have side-by-sides and ATVs, and there are places to go and hike and ride our bikes.  But we couldn’t do any of that until the work was done.”  

Antique grain sacks and ticking fabric adorn the chairs (Chalk & Fable) in the breakfast nook, which features a chandelier made from a trough found on the property.  Table by Restoration Hardware.

Ultimately, they tore down what was once Lisa’s great-uncle’s home and built a new Dutch Colonial Farmhouse in its place.  Lisa scoured through home plans and found an exterior elevation that she loved.  She completely reworked the interior floor plan to meet her family’s needs with the help of architect, Aaron Inouye.  The Miller’s company did all the general contracting, and Lisa was in charge of the interior design—something she learned along the way, of course.  

“We couldn’t afford a designer when we were first started our company, so I would be the one to pick out all the colors for the buildings and design the cabinet and lighting layouts,” she says.  “The more I did it, the more I realized this was something I really loved.  I’ve now started my own design company.  I love helping people make their spaces beautiful.” 

The Millers originally thought they would build a modern farmhouse, but they decided the location needed something that would stand the test of time and never go out of style.  They were inspired by the old pioneer settlements scattered throughout Sanpete County and borrowed design elements from these homesteads.  

Antique corbels from Antiquities Warehouse support the white oak mantel that matches the box beams in the ceiling.  The fireplace is finished with the same over-grout treatment used on the exterior, which reflects an old stone process prominent on pioneer homes that inspired the design.  

“I looked at how they did their stone, and in some ways, I designed the home to look as if there were different additions to the house over the years so you couldn’t tell what was original and what had been added on,” Lisa explains.   

The nearly 14,000-square foot home was created with family in mind since there are now over 50 people when the couple’s children, grandchildren, siblings, and parents get together.  There are lots of separate spaces where people can gather—including the formal living room, dining room (complete with two massive tables), sunroom, great room, and downstairs family room.  

“It really lends itself to people being able to gather and build relationships without feeling like you’re sitting in this gigantic place that isn’t very warm or welcoming,” Lisa notes.  

The French antique hutch in the kitchen, which replaced cabinetry that was planned for this area, is one of Lisa’s favorite pieces.  The durable blue Sunbrella fabric on the Grandin Road barstools makes for easy clean-up.  

The design choices contribute to the coziness of the interior where antiques abound, textures are thoughtfully layered, and scale is carefully curated.  Antique doors are utilized in several places to add character, including the primary bedroom, library, pantry, main floor laundry room, and office.  The blue and cream color scheme weaves a clean, comfortable, and tranquil aesthetic throughout the spaces.  Blue is used as a bold accent in various places throughout the home, such as the mudroom, where the cabinets are a rich navy hue.  

A 10-foot-tall antique hutch from France is a focal point in the kitchen, which also features metal antique pendants over the island.  A unique chandelier in the kitchen nook was fashioned from a trough that was salvaged from the property.  Custom chairs and ottomans are upholstered with old grain and tobacco sacks and accented with antique ticking fabric.  Two large chairs in the great room are similar in scale but don’t match, other than being covered in the same material.  

The bedroom above the formal sitting room is a great place to relax and take in the views of Miller Time Ranch.

“I tried to put a little different spin on things than what you’d see when you go into a new home,” Lisa describes.  “A lot of times everything is new and shiny, but you can tell the house was just barely finished, and that’s not what I was going for.”

In keeping with the nod to history, the tile patterns for the bathrooms and laundry room are ones that would have been utilized in the early 1900s.  Similarly, the transom windows, which had to be custom made to fit over the massive doors, were based on glass patterns that were popular in the early twentieth century.  Old fireplace mantels, antique corbels, as well as old grain sifters and antique food scales and pottery, add patina to an interior that makes the home feel comfortable and inviting—especially for those just coming in from a hard day’s work on Miller Time Ranch.  

In one of six guest bedrooms, a sweet quote stands out against the navy paint above the wainscoting—just one of many places the color is used throughout the home.  

ARCHITECT
Aaron Inouye

BUILDER
Vollkommen Construction

INTERIOR DESIGNER
Lisa Marie Design Company

OPENING SPREAD: Big Bear Lodge is built with reclaimed timbers salvaged from old barns and natural stone to create a rustic lodge-like sanctuary that blends in with the stunning landscape. 

For a family who loves to spend time together exploring the great outdoors of Big Sky, Mont., this legacy home in the beautiful neighborhood of Moonlight Basin is a gateway to nature and togetherness.  Situated on the northwest side of Big Sky Resort, the neighborhood is a mix of modern and rustic architecture and ski in/ski out abodes like this one, Big Bear Lodge, which allows easy and year-round access to Mother Nature’s limitless playground.  In the wintertime, blankets of snow shroud the landscape, creating an invitation for alpine adventure on downhill or cross-country skis, snowboards, snowshoes, and fat bikes.  When the weather warms up, endless blue skies, and longer days usher in the opportunity for communing with nature and one another with activities like golfing, hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and fishing.  

This beautiful wooden buffet is nestled perfectly into a stony nook and hides a sweet surprise. The bottom drawer pulls out to reveal food and water dishes for the family dog.

Big Bear Lodge sits on a steeply-pitched site, which required Centre Sky Architecture to work strategically with the unique topography.  The “parkitecture” stone layup, which is about two feet thick at its widest point, provides a strong base for the home and bells out from the foundation.  It gives permanence as the rusticated stone reaches vertically and engages with the historic horizontal planks and masculine-scaled structural timbers.  

The goal of the project was to create a one-of-a-kind gathering place that can be enjoyed by the family and its posterity for generations.  This required a thoughtful and thorough approach to all aspects of the design.  Wellness and entertainment were built into the home where all of the spaces – from the kitchen nook to the lower-level bar and a collection of outdoor areas – turn into small pods for gathering.  

The reclaimed wood that is a hallmark of Big Bear Lodge is on full display in the great room where large exposed structural beams are a focal point. The Kensington Sofa in Graphite Vintage Velvet is from Restoration Hardware. 

There is a lot of outdoor living at Big Bear Lodge, and most of the decks and patios have their own stone fireplaces, which are horizontally stacked and then capped with prominent vertical stones called dragon teeth,” says Jamie Daugaard (AIA, NCARB, LEED AP), Principal Architect at Centre Sky Architecture.  “It adds a lot of charm to the home.” 

According to Michele Wheeler, (AIA, NCARB, CDT), Design Principal at Design Collective West, the home is intentionally regionally authentic and unimposing to its natural surroundings while also being incredibly functional.  The mountain interior aesthetic is timelessly cozy and comforting with rich textures and natural materials that only get better with age.  “All of the elements of the home were designed with the intent of creating a long-lasting property,” says Wheeler.  

The soft furnishings (custom off-white sectional from Kravet) with a modern twist balance the masculine architecture. Original artwork by Ashleigh Sumner over the fireplace creates a colorful contrast to the room’s rustic aesthetic.

The materials palette is natural, rustic, and reclaimed, and predominately features stone and wood.  “We wanted the interior finishes and interior textures of the home to be an expression of the outside landscape,” Wheeler explains.  The locally sourced natural stone, which consists of dark gray, tan, and brown hues to establish the earth-toned color story on the interior, was quarried from an area near Flathead Lake in northwestern Montana.  Reclaimed wood throughout the home includes hand-hewn timbers and logs with metal banding.  There is reclaimed wood plank paneling for the walls and soaring ceilings and wide-plank reclaimed thresher barnwood for the flooring.  To offer a lighter contrast to the stone and wood finishes, the kitchen at Big Bear Lodge features crisp painted cabinetry, thick white quartzite countertops, and a marble mosaic backsplash.

Art played a central role in the interior design of the home, and art selection was particularly meaningful to the homeowners, who wanted colorful pieces that would pop against the rustic, organic tones.  There are original art pieces throughout, including a burned-wood grizzly bear graphic by Carly Jo Studio in the gym, as well as original pieces by Ben Pease and Ashleigh Sumner over the great room fireplaces.  

The kitchen finishes are a light and bright distinction from the home’s rustic aesthetic.  The counter stools – carved from solid reclaimed wood timbers and accented with hand-forged steel strapping – are custom-made by builder Lohss Construction.  

Wheeler also selected modern, clean-lined furnishings in lighter colors and soft textures to balance out the rustic, somewhat-masculine architecture.  For example, crisply-tailored upholstered furniture, such as the cream-colored sectional in the great room, adds a contemporary feel that balances the weight of the hand-tooled wooden beams and dramatic stone fireplaces.  “The soft, modern furniture and refined, sophisticated accents bring a sense of repose and help the space feel lighter and brighter,” Wheeler says.  

The huge windows in the bedroom invite the luscious landscape in, while the spectacular stone fireplace and custom headboard upholstered with a soft, saddle-colored leather add a rustic touch.  

This peaceful bathroom offers the opportunity for a soothing, slope-side soak high in the mountains. 

The furniture arrangements themselves are incredibly functional, especially with respect to group gatherings and entertaining, as are the interior layouts that capture views to the mountains.  For example, the quartet of contemporary barrel-back swivel chairs near the great room windows create a perfect spot to take in the majestic vistas.

This bar is the perfect backdrop for family game night.  The sleek bar cabinet in a custom black color with dark green and blue undertones complements the hues in the natural soapstone countertop.  

Wheeler says one of her favorite rooms at Big Bear Lodge is the study where two oversized leather club chairs – perfect for lounging when you just want a little extra space to curl up – face the fireplace.  There is a custom built-in desk on the opposite side of the room, which is made from natural reclaimed oak and features an inset leather panel that provides a suitable, forgiving surface on which to write.  At the same time, it adds to the beauty and softness of the room.  

The back of the desk is accented with natural bark shingles, which have an amazing backstory of their own.  “We found a company in North Carolina that repurposes the peeled bark of Tulip Poplar Trees as part of the Appalachian forest re-growth project.  The bark, which historically was a waste product in lumber operations, is removed from the harvested logs before reaching the mill, then shaped and kiln-dried to create this beautiful, sustainably-sourced wall covering material,” Wheeler describes.  

This is just one of the home’s many unique touches that reflects its origins and its owners.  No doubt the family will enjoy the property – and Big Sky Country – for generations to come.  

The outdoor spaces at Big Bear Lodge are designed for four-season enjoyment.

ARCHITECT 
Centre Sky Architecture 

INTERIOR DESIGNER
Design Collective West

BUILDER
Lohss Construction

OPENING SPREAD: The structure is built into the hillside, contributing to the concept of it being an historic homestead.  

Perched along the legendary Yellowstone River and surrounded by four stunning mountain ranges in Montana’s Paradise Valley, Livingston is known for its Western hospitality, wild landscapes, and a diverse community that values and stewards this special spot in the West.  The town of about 8,000 residents —located between Billings and Bozeman—is the original gateway to Yellowstone National Park and features a preserved downtown that is so picturesque it makes you feel as if you have stepped onto a Western movie set.  In fact, there are more artists and writers per capita in Livingston than anywhere else in Big Sky Country, aligning a rich cultural scene with the area’s endless outdoor recreational opportunities.  

Asymmetrical boulders were hand-selected by the project team for the front entry and hold up the posts of the front porch.

For a family from North Carolina who had looked all over the West for a place to build a vacation retreat, Livingston was the perfect fit.  “A friend made me promise we wouldn’t buy anything until we came to Livingston and he showed us around,” the owner explains.  “I fell in love with it because of the kindness of the community, and we loved the diversity.  You could say Livingston called to us.” 

They ultimately settled on a picturesque piece of land resplendent with meandering hillsides dotted with Gambel oaks and aspen trees that wasn’t too far from town yet felt remote.  The owners were captivated by Montana’s historic homesteads and enlisted Centre Sky Architecture to design an unobtrusive home that feels as if it has always been part of the landscape.  The clean-line rustic residence is festooned with reclaimed materials, local stone, and a vegetative roof over the garage that’s embedded into the hillside.   

The peaceful deck captures beautiful views and overlooks the pond that was constructed for on-site recreating. 

Conceptualizing an established cabin that had been added onto over the years, the architects created three “pods” linked by hallways of windows that capture the stunning panoramic views.  The great room’s kitchen, dining, and living areas are in the central pod.  A spacious primary bedroom wing lies on one side of the home, while the other side features a guest wing complete with two bedrooms and a cozy loft space for the grandchildren.   

Materials are used strategically to imbue the homestead theme, with reclaimed oak horizontal-stacked siding on the outside of the central portion of the home that transitions to reversed granary siding in varying shades on the wings to create a weathered look.  Hand-selected, asymmetrical boulders flank the entryway and conform to the columns that hold up the front porch awning, engaging guests as they enter.  Douglas fir beams, Montana moss stone, a metal roof, and purposely unfinished craggy chimney caps also contribute to the allusion of a home built in an earlier era.  

The stunning vistas and the fabulous fireplace are the focal points of the living room. The stones were individually selected and placed to make it look as if it has been there forever. 

There is no sheetrock in the house; instead, it features reclaimed timber, French oak hardwoods, plaster, and shiplap.  It is about 4,000-square feet of living space—all of it designed and utilized to keep the home from feeling too grand.  “This house is just really cozy, and it works as great for two people as it does for 20,” says Centre Sky Architecture’s principal architect Jamie Daugaard.  “I just love the space sizes, the scale and the materiality.  It’s elegant, but also very homey.” 

Creating a new-but-aged look was paramount to the success of the design, but minor details also pay homage to 21st century architecture and add a subtle modern touch.  These include the use of black architectural steel accents, angled columns, and clean-lined black windows, which frame the lovely landscape from every room and function as art for the home.  The muted color palette mimics the outdoors, and the interior design is earthy and organic.  Rustic textural elements like cowhide, sheepskin, wool, and Native American-inspired patterns add to the home’s Western sensibility.

TOP: Luminescent handmade tiles from Morocco are striking against the handmade pressed steel metal hood by Stronghold Fabrication. The beautiful cabinets throughout the home are handcrafted by Homestead Woods. 

BOTTOM: The warm and welcoming entryway is a glimpse of what’s to come as you enter this grand yet cozy home. 

“We were really intent on making this house very special and unique so every single finish was hand-picked; there is nothing cookie cutter in this space,” explains interior designer Kathy Tatom.  “A lot of passion went into this project, which is quintessential Montana.”

Gorgeous reclaimed Douglas fir wooden beams from Montana Reclaimed Lumber ground the great room. The beautiful dining table was designed by interior designer Kathy Tatom and built by local craftsman Eric Nelis. 

ABOVE: This furniture in the nook-like loft, which is reminiscent of “grandma’s attic”, is handcrafted by Eric Nelis based on interior designer Kathy Tatom’s imaginings.   

RIGHT: The master bathroom is a serene space with creamy handmade tiles and whitewashed shiplap. 

The exterior areas elegantly expand the home’s living space and allow occupants to comfortably commune with Big Sky Country.

ARCHITECT
Centre Sky Architecture, Ltd.

INTERIOR DESIGN
Tatom Design

BUILDER
Sievert Construction

Photography by Gibeon Photography 

Perched above peaceful Whitefish Lake in the Flathead Valley of northwest Montana, this luxe lake house is a lovely balance of old world rustic and new world sophistication that is an invitation for connection and relaxation. The architecture sets up an interesting juxtaposition of an old world lodge and classic lake home where lake living is the focus.  The main house is oriented to maximize lake views and link inhabitants to the natural environment. 

The warm cinnamon fabric on the chaise lounges in the master bedroom (Swaim Furniture) offset an otherwise rustic room.

Yacht Club

“The desire at Whitefish Lake is to feel connected to the water’s edge, so our efforts were to get the home positioned as low as we could,” explains Greg Dennee, partner at Locati Architects. To accomplish this, he and founding partner Jerry Locati situated the home on the sloping lot so you go down into it, much like a waterfall cascading down a hill. “The property is fairly steep, so you descend down into the home—you actually step down into it,” Dennee describes.  “There are steps on the entry and steps from the patio, so it really feels like you move down to the water’s edge as part of the entry experience.” 

The materials—dry stack native stone, reclaimed fir timber beams and lath siding, and a combination of cedar and rusted metal roofing—give the home a distinctly rustic feel. 

The detached garage, in keeping with lake house tradition, encourages you to pull up, park your car, and never use it again while you spend all of your time enjoying the lake, Dennee says.  The outdoor living space is another essential component of the design, and it is connected to the home in creative ways.  Over the kitchen sink, a bifold window accordions open to the outdoor living area. The timber trusses—used inside to create a more intimate scale in the large main living area and also define rooms in the open layout—extend to the substantial outdoor living space. Here, there are creature comforts including a native stone fireplace, dining area, kitchen, and supremely functional room for cleaning up after time outside.  The vanity in this lake room is bespoke with custom copper branch pulls that reference the natural setting and a unique blue-toned concrete trough sink and countertop that mirror the lake. 

The connection to the natural surroundings is further enforced throughout the home’s organic interior with the use of natural materials, colors, and patterns. Hunter Dominick, founder and owner of Hunter & Company Interior Design, used bold paint, accented tiles, unique wallpaper, unexpected fabrics, artisan ironwork, eclectic antiques and tons of texture to keep the home balanced, yet intriguing. 

TOP: Rich details in the kitchen include the custom copper sink by Hunter & Company, a Perrin & Rowe bronze-finish custom copper faucet, and the blue glass tile backsplash that mimics the water outside. BOTTOM: The reclaimed wood table in the library is an invitation for family game night.

“There are a lot of little details throughout the home that are there, but you don’t necessarily notice them at first glance,” says Dominick.  “The antiques, the custom-made pulls, the rich fabrics—it’s all of these little details that contribute to the high texture and high style of this home, set against the structure that is more rustic.”  She adds, “A lot of local artisans and craftspeople worked on this project, which is really cool.”

These artisan touches include the copper sinks in the kitchen and bathroom and the custom ironwork on the stair railings and fireplace grates.  A local blacksmith built one of the beautiful beds that features an oversized bird perched on the headboard.

The generous wet bar sets the stage for entertaining and features a Hunter & Company custom pendant in a tin finish. 

The primary bedroom is wrapped in Siberian birch bark panels, creating the sense of sleeping in a grove of aspens—a special request from the owner.  Traditional furniture and two beautiful chaise lounges in a warm cinnamon tone create balance in this otherwise rustic room. 

CLOCKWISE STARTING TOP LEFT:  The oversized tub in the master bath is perfect for soaking in the views. Chandelier by Currey & Company; The woven chair—one of the many examples of color and texture in the home’s eye-catching interior—is from Baker FurniturE; The walls in the master bedroom are covered in Siberian birch bark panels that conjure up feelings of sleeping in a forest. The Currin king bed and the Yorkshire House concave mahogany cabinets are a traditional twist in this otherwise rustic room.

Antique reclaimed hardwood floors connect the main living spaces and contribute to the classic styling, while more contemporary textiles and furnishings create interest. In the family room, for instance, lies a custom white wool rug with silk fish swimming across it—a nod to one of the favored lake activities—paired with mid-century chairs upholstered in contemporary fabric.  The dining chairs, set around a glass table, have very clean, contemporary lines. In the cozy sitting area, striking zebra hide chairs are positioned perfectly for watching the sun set over the lake.  The kitchen features a glass backsplash that resembles the shimmering water outside, as well as a contemporary branch light fixture that was custom-made in South America. 

The great room is incredibly refined with classic, colorful furniture set against the rustic shell of the space. The coffee table and chandelier are custom made by Hunter & Company. The sofas and chairs are by Hickory Chair Furniture Co. 

The guest house, which was original to the property and relocated to its current position, was redecorated in a decidedly Montana fashion.  “Forest service cabins in Glacier National Park are typically trimmed in green; therefore, we remodeled the cabin to include grass green cabinets to tie in that detail,” says Dominick.  The rustic cabin is complete with a rock fireplace, barnwood cabinets, wooden beds, plaid coverlets, and Pendleton pillows.  

Dominick concludes that the success of the property is driven not only by the overall style, but also by the function of the home, which works really well for the family.  “I’m a big fan of functional spaces, and each room in this home has its own identity and is maximized to its full functionality,” she says. 

ARCHITECT 
Locati Architects

INTERIOR DESIGNER 
Hunter & Company Interior Design 

BUILDER
Malmquist Construction

Have you ever seen a stunning room in a Western home and wondered how on earth you could possibly create an equally spectacular space of your own? It can be an overwhelming proposition, but COWGIRL is here to help. We have expert insight and inspo from some of the country’s hottest designers who have a keen sense for Western living interiors. 

The good news, according to our pros, is that design trends are leaning toward what feels comfortable and tasteful, no matter the style in which your room is grounded. Designer Jennifer Ashton from Santa Fe says it’s all about the “art of the mix.” “Coming out of COVID, we want to feel good in our homes, and nostalgia is making a comeback,” she says.  “Breaking a few rules feels freeing, and that means we’re seeing more creativity in designs that focus on artwork and décor that works in our homes while also making us feel comforted.”

Mountain Homes

Courtney St. John, Courtney St. John Studio

Mountain homes are often vacation properties located in resort communities where the design reflects the natural surroundings.  The use of “living” materials such as natural stone, reclaimed wood, wrought iron, and masonry combined with earthy textures and a neutral color palette are characteristics of this style.  It is also about bringing the mountain vistas in while making the interiors cozy and inviting for four-season gathering. 

The stone wall in the guest bathroom is the perfect backdrop for the fine art photograph by Ali Darvish called “Sable Island Horses.”  The luxurious freestanding cast iron tub is Candide by Waterworks, which sits atop natural travertine tile flooring. Photo by Gibeon Photography

Vail designer Courtney St. John says honing in on the feeling you want your mountain home to evoke is a great place to look for inspiration for your design.  “What is the intent for your home?  Is there a certain energy you want the space to have—tranquility, liveliness, minimalism, maximalism, rustic, modern? Do you want the space to be infused with the feeling of the outdoors?  These questions are a really good place to start when designing a home that will support your lifestyle.” 

From there, St. John suggests letting your heart and intuition guide your choices.  “It’s really all about what feels right to you. If you love it, then go for it!  When combining the elements of design, there really is no right and wrong when using the things you love,” she states. 

St. John is a fan of antiquing for unique finds that can be upcycled and repurposed.  “Antiques can often add uniqueness and character to a space,” she says.  For a recent project in Vail, for instance, St. John shopped with the client at the twice-a-year antique fair in Round Top, Texas, where they bought a number of items for the home including an old covered wagon that sits outside and is decorated seasonally.  Another go-to for St. John is Scott Antique Market in Atlanta, which is the world’s largest monthly indoor antique market. 

For original art, St. John suggests following artists on social media and perusing local art galleries to find pieces you love. “Instagram has made original art more accessible in the sense that you can follow artists and find works you love, even if you are not near a local gallery.  It also can provide a space to connect directly with the artist and gallery,” she says.  St. John also sources from local artisans and smaller craftspeople as much as possible to supplement the purchases she makes at trade design centers in LA, NYC, Atlanta, and Denver. 

Ranch Design 

Amanda Heys, Locati Interiors

Reclaimed Montana timbers on the ceiling and floor combine with the locally sourced stone to provide a rich backdrop for fun in this timeless game room with a Maitland-Smith shuffle board table and a pool table by Monarch Billiards. The richly upholstered sofa and ottomans were custom-made to fit the space. Artwork is by Jerry Locati (Locati Fine Art). Photo by Roger Wade

Rustic elegance is the name of the game with ranch homes that typically utilize big timbers, roughhewn flooring, ironwork, stone that stretches from exterior to interior, and a configuration that captures the views of the property’s own landscape and beyond. “There tends to be more custom detail in a ranch home that’s your forever home, and ranch styling tends to be timeless and classic,” explains Amanda Heys of Locati Interiors.  “It’s a style that stands the test of time.” 

According to Heys, nailing down the style story for a ranch starts with understanding how your spaces will be utilized.  “Ranches are hubs for family, friends, hunters, and ranch hands, so while you may want more formality in the living room where you will be entertaining, for example, you will also want to create more casual spaces where you can sit back and enjoy yourself,”  she notes. 

Heys says these principles played into the design of the Double Arrow Ranch in Montana, which Locati fashioned with family in mind.  The living room exudes a more formal feel with richly upholstered furniture and traditional rugs.  The game room, on the other hand, is designed for fun and feels like an old Western saloon with embossed leather, gun displays, a custom bar, and an antique pool table.  “This room is created to be a space like you’ve never been in before,” Heys describes.  

Heys advises those styling a ranch home to shop local resources and look for custom-made furnishings, as well as pieces that have a lot of detail.  “Find images you gravitate toward and identify the details that are important to you, and then build your room from there,” she recommends. 

Western Eclectic

Emily Janak, Emily Janak Interiors

This room is a mix of lots of family furniture and mementos – including the skis and a banjo to add a pop of personality—and eclectic textiles. The green-and-white pillow fabric is Christopher Farr Cloth, and the blue-and-white fabric is from Ottoline. The artwork is B Shawn Cox, represented by Eastin Creative. Janak uses green as a neutral and likes mixing in books to give her designs a homey feel. Photo by Lisa Flood

Western Eclectic is a collected, worldly design style that is curated over time, resulting in a mash-up of interesting textures, colors, and patterns.  But Jackson Hole designer Emily Janak says the real key to success is taking it a step further.  “It’s also about mixing eras and things from all different ilks.  So you really only need a few things that are ‘of place’ and Western.”  She adds, “What I love to do is mix in something that’s mid-century with something that’s classic and traditional.  These things can all very much work together.” 

So where do you start when designing an eclectic space? Janak says to begin by picking your “hero” for the room. “Decide what’s going to be your focal point.  Is it a piece of art?  An unusual chair?  A fabric where you go ‘more-is-more’ and have it featured multiple places?” She says by focusing on the hero you can then layer in additional elements that are quieter so they don’t compete with the centerpiece of your space.    

If you are working on a budget, Janak says you can maximize your hero find by utilizing it in smaller, yet impactful ways. “If you fall in love with a fabric but upholstering your entire sofa exceeds your budget, use it for the pillows instead,” she suggests. 

A true mix master,  Janak turns to many different places to source her looks.  “COVID has really changed the sourcing landscape, and I’m always surfing Instagram to procure antiques.  I also love using classic fabric houses like Soane Britain, and I shop locally at Mountain Dandy and Fighting Bear Antiques in Jackson Hole for one-of-a-kinds.” 

Janak suggests using travel to help inform your eye about what’s really unique.  “When you really get out and explore, you will start to realize what feels a little more common and that will help the unusual things stand out more.  Pay attention to what feels interesting to you, and then build your room around that.” 

Southwestern Pueblo Style

Jennifer Ashton, Jennifer Ashton Interiors

An artful mix in this media lounge is both sophisticated and fun-filled. The gorgeous corner kiva fireplace with a built-in banco has soft lines that flow with the modern sofa. A play on a saddle, the leather ottoman offers a “kick-up-your-heels-and-chill” vibe. Disc artwork by Christopher Martin was installed at a high level for visual interest. Photo by Laurie Allegretti

The Southwestern Pueblo aesthetic takes its cues from nature with rich, earthy tones, indigenous patterns on textiles and accessories, wooden elements, smooth walls and soft edges everywhere.  Other architectural calling cards for this style are nichos, little alcoves for art and pottery, rounded ceiling trusses called vigas, and beehive-shaped kiva fireplaces. 

As a Santa Fe interior designer with an art-centric perspective, Jennifer Ashton focuses her process on what honors a home’s history, style, and function.  She recently designed a living room for ShowHouse Santa Fe that is indicative of her take on Pueblo design.  The room revolves around amazing disc artwork by Christopher Martin in bold colors that is installed at a high line in the room for playful interest.  “This home has great traditional Pueblo-style bones, and this design honors the ceilings, the kiva, and the original terra cotta flooring.  We painted the walls a soothing, natural shade of taupe that would let the art be the star.  It’s my take on old meeting new.” 

Ashton says when sourcing items for your own room, start with what you already own.  “You may be surprised with what you can do with what you already have if you’re just creative about it and willing to give it new life, if needed, with new paint or a different top, for example.” 

When looking for new items, Ashton says to be selective. “Look for incredible pieces to add to your collection and remember that quality counts.  So invest money on quality items like sofas that you will be spending a lot of time in and using for years to come.”  Ashton says DIY designers should also be open to shopping antique and consignment stores. “Mix it up, and your room will have a lot more character.” Lastly, she suggests weaving a thread of simplicity throughout your space.  “You want personality, and you also want to feel good in the space.  Finding a balance between styles and between simplicity and personality is important.” 

Hotel Drover, Texas

Kayla Wilkie, Majestic Realty Co.’s Director of Design and Development for Lifestyle and Hospitality

Large windows in the lobby of the Hotel Drover flood the space in natural light. The room is layered with details including a hand-forged chandelier (Hans Duus Blacksmith), leather-wrapped columns, Pendleton chairs and shearling-detailed sofas from Brumbaugh’s Fine Home Furnishings. Photos by Dixie Dixon

The Hotel Drover sits on two acres at the end of South Mule Alley in Fort Worth, Texas, and is the crown jewel of the reimagined Fort Worth Stockyards.  The hotel is named after the men and women who led cattle down the Chisolm Trail into the stockyards—drovers—and inspired by the pioneering spirit of the West. 

Kayla Wilkie, Stockyard Heritage Development Co.’s Director of Design and Development for Lifestyle and Hospitality, styled the interiors that invite guests to immerse themselves in the heritage of the stockyard’s legacy.  Majestic had hired a design team from New York that provided the architectural elements and black and white drawings that served as a “shell” for the design.  When the pandemic hit, the designers stopped traveling, so Wilkie teamed up with Craig Cavileer, Managing Partner at Stockyard Heritage Development Co., to take the project over the finish line. 

“I didn’t go to school for interior design; I just happened to be in the right place at the right time,” says Wilkie.  She says she likes to refer to Drover as a 180,000-square foot custom home.  “We wanted the Drover to feel residential so people feel welcome here.  There are so many elements that truly do make it look and feel residential.  That’s because that was the only way we knew how to do it,” she laughs.  

Wilkie relied heavily on local shops—and an amazing procurement agency, Project Dynamics—to source the furnishings for the Drover.  “We went into the local showrooms and took pictures of everything we liked.  Then we put it on a floor plan and built it from scratch with so much help from these local stores.” 

Rios Interiors, based right in the Stockyards, did every piece of furniture in the hotel guest rooms.  Jason Lenox with Anteks in Dallas furnished the bridal suite, and Brumbaugh’s Furnishings sourced accent chairs and couches in the common areas.  “Fort Worth is the epicenter of the Western lifestyle so we really had a lot of resources, and it was just so much fun to work with locals in that way.  They were just so willing to help us!”  Wilkie says it’s also nice to be able to refer guests who fall in love with something at the Drover to the local stores where they can purchase the items for their own home. 

The lobby library is stocked with a variety of Western- and Texas-themed books for guests to use. A Picasso painting alludes to the incredible arts and culture that Fort Worth is known for internationally, and the 30,000 pounds of steel that accents the cat walk is a nod to the industrial past of the Fort Worth Stockyards. Vintage Stetson hats line the floor-to-ceiling cove shelving and the pottery is from Matthew Gilley Ceramics.

To procure the artwork, Wilkie traveled to amazing art galleries of the West.  “I tried to be so organized with a spreadsheet about what I needed to fill the wall space, but that’s not how you shop for art when you’re buying for a residence.  You’re really just buying what you love, so that’s what I started doing instead.”  As a result, the Drover is filled with a unique blend of Western pieces that range from contemporary to traditional and everything in between. 

“Looking back it feels incredible what we were able to accomplish.  There is such a big spotlight on the Stockyards and I think we hit the nail on the head.”

Wilkie’s experience of being thrust into a potentially overwhelming design role is not unlike what you might be experiencing as you tackle your own space.  So what is her biggest take-away?  “My best advice would be to layer—add different fabrics, materials, textures, tones, and accessories.  Don’t be afraid to do a little bit of everything.  Have a point of view for a space and layer upon that point of view until it feels like a sense of place and you understand what the room is saying.”