Spotlight on Vail Valley
Expert Q&A's from this high-country destination
Mention the word Vail, and images of world-class skiing, glamorous apres-ski gatherings and luxurious mountain homes immediately come to mind. But in reality, there is so much more to enjoy in the town of Vail and the surrounding valley. A mere 100 miles from Denver, people flock to the area to enjoy the Old World European charm of Vail Village, a wide array of cultural events, first-class restaurants and bars, amazing retail and, of course, access to the stunning natural beauty and pristine wilderness that define the Vail Valley.
From hiking and biking to fishing, paddling, golf and skiing, snowboarding and snow-shoeing, there is something for every outdoor enthusiast in every season. Aside from a million visitors a year, Vail has an even split between full-time and part-time residents, with the number growing every year.
Luckily, Vail is home to an impressive community of professionals dedicated to helping people make their alpine dreams come true. Here, we’ll introduce you to a slate of exceptional architects, interior designers and builders devoted to creating and renovating incredible mountain homes. You’ll also meet purveyors of quality wood and flooring products and a seasoned real estate broker. Get to know these professionals and celebrate all that makes Vail a world-class destination to visit or live.
Design Par Excellence
Photo: Courtesy of BERGLUND ARCHITECTS
The talented team at BERGLUND ARCHITECTS, located in Edwards, CO, works intimately with clients to create sophisticated designs with a welcoming, casual elegance.
What role does a home’s site play in the creative process of designing a new home?
At Berglund Architects, we have created exceptional “mountain modern” homes for over 19 years. Through a synthesis of local vernacular architecture, beautiful natural materials, modern design influences, and a focus on indoor- outdoor living, we create homes that connect our clients physically, spiritually, and emotionally to the stunning natural environment of the Rocky Mountains.
How have your designs evolved over the years?
Berglund Architects continues to innovate with new technologies and products that push mountain modern expressions while adhering to fundamental design principles. We strive to thoroughly understand our clients’ goals, work with the site to maximize unique features and views, carefully balance proportions and building forms, expose refined structural elements, and connect to the outdoors through floor-to-ceiling windows and doors. Using advanced 3D computer modeling and renderings, the interior architecture of our homes is seamlessly designed and coordinated with the exterior architecture.
How does your talented team work together to create the spectacular homes they are known for?
Berglund Architects has 17 talented, passionate professionals, with Hans Berglund, Adam Gilmer, and Stephanie Lord-Johnson being the firm’s three principals. With our combined 60-plus years of design experience, each principal brings unique expertise and continues to be involved in every project from the conceptual phase through the completion of the design and construction. Our great personal friendships, complementary design process and shared passion for detail are vital to achieving exceptional mountain modern homes that bring people together positively and make a powerful impact on our clients’ lives.
What is your favorite part of the design process?
We collaborate with clients on the early conceptual design of every home, providing a variety of ideas and design options that ultimately get distilled down through our unique Charrette process, where over a few days we spend intensive time on the site engaging and sketching the design live with our client, making quick continual refinements until the design perfectly matches their lifestyle and vision.
Hans Berglund, AIA, Principal, Adam Gilmer, AIA, Principal, Stephanie Lord-Johnson, AIA, Principal
970-926-4301
Edwards, Colorado
Approachable Luxury
Photo: Courtesy of LKW LUXURY INTERIOR DESIGN
Meet dynamic duo Kayce Newell and Jamie Critchlow, Principal Designers at LKW LUXURY INTERIOR DESIGN in Edwards, Colorado, who combine expertise and love of design with their clients’ needs and personal tastes to create beautiful results.
Your firm has experienced phenomenal growth over the last 10 years. Why do you think that is, and where do you hope to go from here?
In a word, relationships. The projects we showcase in our portfolio reflect years spent building relationships with just the right trade sources, industry professionals and, of course, our amazing clients. We work very hard to provide all our clients with a great experience and beautiful end product. The best compliment we can receive is when a client comes back to us for their next project or when we are referred for a new project by another industry professional or past client.
One thing that stands out in your portfolio is how fresh and inviting your designs look. How do you achieve your signature look?
One of the things we were most excited about when we started our company was to work with clients that were ready for a fresh point of view for mountain vacation homes. We wanted to move past some of the mountain design stereotypes that everyone was pretty tired of. A lived-in luxury design that ticks the boxes for style, quality and comfort has been a winning combination for our design team.
The two of you have been partners for over ten years. What strengths do each of you bring to the table?
We regularly joke that we are simultaneously the same and completely different. Jamie
is more reserved, loves cracking the code to creatively solve interior architecture dilemmas and excels at creating the finer details of a design that make all the difference. Kayce is never shy about sharing new ideas to wow clients and excels at finding fresh color schemes and finish packages that are unique to each project.
Kayce Newell, Jamie Critchlow, Founders and Principal Designers
970-446-1619
Edwards, Colorado
Transformative Experience
Photo: Courtesy of KASIA KARSKA DESIGN
KASIA KARSKA DESIGN is a boutique design-build and architectural firm located in the Vail Valley that focuses on creating unique environments for their clients’ infinite potential, tranquility and inspiration.
In your opinion, what defines a spectacular result?
Happy clients. Our team is very passionate about the entire process of creating a home that reflects our client’s lifestyle and is perfectly tailored to their needs. We believe our homes should instill us with a sense of peace and calm within the very fiber
of our being. Therefore, we strive to create warm and inviting spaces that truly transform a home into our clients’ personal sanctuary.
What makes the team at Kasia Karska so special?
We all respect each other. We all have different tasks and work in unison with one another. We solve problems together and consult on creative items to honor everyone’s creativity. We enjoy having meals together, which brings an opportunity to exchange points of views on pending issues. We cherish each project as an opportunity to grow and learn.
How does a home’s environment inform your design?
The location of a home is very important as well as the landscape and feel of the area. Working with Vaastu Shastra and Feng Shui principles in mind, we create homes that incorporate features such as expansive windows that create seamless transitions between indoors and out, personal touches that are meaningful to the homeowner and subdued tones, which allow homes to rest in complete harmony with their natural environment.
Kasia Karska, Owner, Lead Designer and General Contractor
970-688-5748
Vail, Colorado
Fresh Foundations
Photo: Courtesy of CREATIVE FLOORS
Find out what’s new at CREATIVE FLOORS, an independently owned, boutique-style flooring company with a wide range of beautiful options and a passion for helping people refresh their spaces.
What flooring products are your team most excited about right now?
We’ve just become the exclusive carrier of a Belgian wood flooring line that is absolutely one of a kind. It’s already been the topic of a lot of conversation and has been specified in some of the most extravagant homes of Aspen and Vail for 2024.
When is carpet the right choice for a mountain home? And what are some of the fun choices available right now?
Carpet can be so fun and unique—we love it! It can be the best decision for kids’ rooms and to add warmth to your home. We carry everything from Missoni to carpets that look like a cozy sweater. The unique possibilities with carpet really are endless.
Flooring is a big investment. How do you make sure you get it right the first time?
We take into account aesthetics and lifestyle when working with clients. It is a big investment, and we believe going through all the details is the best way to find the right forever flooring.
Brooke Burke, Lead Design Consultant brooke@creativefloorsvail.com
970-855-0250
Edwards, Colorado
Deeply Connected Design
Photo: Courtesy of SIPES ARCHITECTS
With over 70 years of combined experience in residential and commercial architecture, the award-winning team at SIPES ARCHITECTS is dedicated to bringing their clients’ dream spaces to life.
In seeking to create excellent design, where does your team find inspiration?
A majority of our clients choose the Vail area because of the breathtaking views and proximity to nature. So, among our many sources of inspiration, evaluating each home’s site is fundamental and a natural starting point. When studying the site with our clients, we identify the direction of views, the sun’s path across the site during different seasons, the primary wind direction(s) and other unique features. We nurture these unique elements to inform and inspire design solutions that ensure our clients feel deeply connected with, and reflected within, their designed space.
How do you accommodate your clients’ visions while at the same time keep your architectural designs fresh?
We value authenticity and look at every project with fresh eyes. We don’t have one particular style because each client and each project is unique. Clients come to us knowing, at minimum, how they want their home to function and feel. Concentrated and engaged dialogue with our clients, combined with decades of experience, give us the tools we need to envision custom designs and tailored renovations that exceed their expectations.
Brian Sipes, Founding Principal, Todd Biekkola, Partner
970-236-1519
Minturn, Colorado
Timeless Interiors
Photo: Courtesy of CASEY & COMPANY
The creative team at CASEY & COMPANY specializes in building lasting relationships and creating timeless design. Read on for more about how they truly stand out in the crowded field of interior design.
What lies at the heart of Casey & Company’s philosophy?
We have seen the design world change over the years, so when we think about what lies at the heart of our philosophy, we think about who we are and how we’ve evolved. We truly pride ourselves on a strong work ethic, communication, lasting client and vendor relationships, creativity and attention to detail.
What is the secret to a well-designed mountain home?
The keys to a successful project are trusting your design and construction teams to take the design from concept to fruition, utilizing their experience in the industry and knowledge of the mountain aesthetic, and working from a realistic budget.
What makes a Casey & Company experience unique?
With offices in both the mountains and the city, we believe we offer a broader, more informed perspective on design. And while we guide all of our clients to ensure a timeless, functional, comfortable, beautiful interior as the end result, our intention is to create a totally customized space tailored to each client’s desired aesthetics. When we work on a project, it becomes more about trust and an understanding of our clients’ lifestyle, with the intent to cultivate a lasting relationship beyond the project at hand.
CASEY & COMPANY INTERIOR DESIGN
Amy Casey and Joanne Brutsch, Principals and Lead Designers
970-376-0238 | 303-579-4932
Vail and Denver, Colorado
Local Gem
Photo: Courtesy of VINTAGE WOODS
VINTAGE WOODS, located in Gypsum, Colorado, combines Old World beauty and modern techniques to create custom- finished wood and timber building products.
What is Vintage Woods?
Our skilled team manufactures beautiful, pre-finished wood products that appear aged with timeless patinas or clear, penetrating finishes to complement more modern architecture. We provide siding, trim, fascia, timbers, decking and interior woods and can accommodate custom profiles along with a variety of different wood species, textures and finishes.
What makes your line of products so unique?
From start to finish, we work intricately with home- owners, builders, architects and designers to ensure the end result is nothing less than exceptional. Our Heat Modified process removes sugars and moisture from the wood. In turn, it becomes very stable, meaning it won’t cup or warp and is rot- and insect-resistant. Our Class A fire-rated line, Flame Repel, is a great option if you are in an area with wildfire threats or want added protection for peace of mind.
What is the best way to connect with Vintage Woods?
We would love to hear from you. Give our showroom a call and talk to one of our knowledgeable team members. You can also send an inquiry via our website. We ship nationally and are proud to offer short lead times so your project can hit the ground running.
Nick Swanepoel
970-524-4041
Gypsum, Colorado
Exquisite Design
Photo: Courtesy of SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY
Recognized as one of the top 100 brokers worldwide for SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY, Barbara Gardner Scrivens is thrilled to provide a glimpse of a magnificent estate in the gated resort neighborhood of Cordillera.
Vail is home to many remarkable private residences. What makes this property unique?
Nestled amid the Rocky Mountains, this remarkable 8-bedroom, 10-bath home is positioned on one of the best lots within Cordillera. It features sweeping views across the valley to the Gore Range with extensive open space in front of the homesite, creating a sense that it occupies much more than its dedicated 2 acres. Designed to replicate authentic Adirondack architecture while offering today’s comforts and a crisp interior design, there is truly nothing like it in the Vail Valley.
Please share the standout features of this extraordinary home.
The setting is magical. Walking up to the front door is an experience in itself, with a babbling brook and footbridge at the entry. Living spaces are adorned with hand-scraped spruce beams from Montana. Expansive windows frame panoramic views. Outdoor living is presented at its best, with multiple patios and decks allowing one to soak in the views. The open floor plan positions the gourmet kitchen and wet bar to flow effortlessly into the grand living and dining area. Intended to entertain, a game room, movie theater, fireman’s pole, outdoor fireplace and hot tub offer endless opportunities for enjoyment. Cordillera’s outstanding amenities (3 golf courses, equestrian center, fitness facilities, pools, pickleball and tennis, snowshoe, hiking and biking trails and much more) create a 7,000-acre playground outside the front door. ElkWoodsCordillera.com
LIV SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY
Barbara Gardner Scrivens
Top 5 Agents LIV Sotheby’s Int’l Realty
Top 100 Agents Worldwide Sotheby’s Int’l Realty
970-471-1223
Vail, Colorado
Boutique Experience
Photo: Courtesy of ALICIA DAVIS
With over 20 years of experience, architect ALICIA DAVIS specializes in creating timeless designs that capture the natural beauty of the Vail Valley while reflecting the individuality of her clients’ lifestyles and visions.
What makes working with a boutique architecture firm like yours a special experience?
My clients have my full attention. I listen carefully and personally work on all aspects of the design. From initial meetings to final drawings and support throughout construction, my goal is to make the experience fun while creating a beautiful, timeless home that lives well.
Is there a common theme that runs throughout your designs?
The integration of beauty and function is the theme for each project I work on. Whether my client’s tastes run modern or classic or somewhere in between, my goal is great design that turns my clients’ dreams into reality.
Alicia Davis, AIA, Principal
970-209-6304
Eagle, CO
Personal Touch
Photo: Courtesy of LA STUDIO & CO.
Meet Addie Pecord, principal interior designer at LA STUDIO & CO., whose passion for bringing her clients’ visions to life results in lasting relationships and beautiful homes throughout the Vail Valley.
Are there any common themes that unite your designs?
Cozy is my word, and in any space I design I bring in texture, warmth and personal touches to make a space truly feel inviting and comfortable. I think my best work has been creating homes that feel exceptionally livable while still feeling well-designed.
Describe your unique creative process when working with a new client.
The most important part of the creative process is building relationships with my clients. Understanding what inspires them and what is most important to them is the best way to incorporate personal elements that speak to their lifestyle and how they want their space to look and function.
Addie Pecord, Owner, Principal Designer
970-390-9182
Edwards, CO
ML Promotion
As seen in ML’s November/December 2023 Issue
