What is Colorado Modern?
Colorado modern design—sometimes referred to as mountain modern—is a regional aesthetic dotting the Front Range landscape. Colorado modern is a unique style that blends the elements of modern design such as clean lines and dual-purpose spaces with natural elements that draw our beautiful outdoors into our living spaces. It’s a commitment to sustainability and livability.
The connection between indoors and outdoors is a key factor in the design style. The connection happens through a variety of means. One way this is achieved is by is a blurring of the line between indoors and out through the use of window walls and accordion exterior doors. Many Colorado modern homes include extensive outdoor living areas that can range from patios and decks to fully designed outdoor family rooms complete with exterior-grade furnishings, and outdoor kitchen and a fireplace.
Design details play a large part in ensuring Colorado modern homes can function efficiently. Homes with west- and south-facing windows might include pergolas or other exterior structures designed to cut some of the sun exposure. Others might employ shade screens are large roof overhangs. High-quality windows designed to minimize solar heat gain would be specified for these areas.
Aesthetic details define Colorado modern homes in easy-to-spot ways. A mixture of textures and materials is omnipresent. Many homes will feature a carefully orchestrated blend of stones, woods and steel to create a unique look. They also tend to have a decidedly modern edge that contrasts the warm elements.
Local materials are often incorporated into Colorado modern designs. A hallmark of this style is Colorado buff stone as well as local flagstone. Beetle kill pine is a popular material for flooring and furnishings.
For many homeowners seeking the Colorado modern aesthetic, it’s less about the materials and more about the livability and feeling of the space. Open floor plans and connection to the outdoors get top billing. It’s important that the home reflects our Colorado lifestyle: simple and natural.
