Mountain Modern Design Inspired by the Beauty of Rocky Mountain Living
The trend that’s sweeping the state
Photo by Elisabeth Gordon Photography
Mountain Modern design is a bold, clean and intentionally less-is-more design concept. Inspired by Scandinavian Nordic minimalist style, the concept works beautifully in both mountain homes and city abodes.
“Mountain Modern design is the simplicity of all the elements in one space,” say Preethi Rajaratnam and Amanda Furlong, interior designers at Cathers Home in Basalt, Colorado. “Natural woods, soft textures and neutral tones inspire the feeling of being among nature and the rejuvenation of the fresh, mountain air.”
Cathers Home sees this design style growing among those relocating to the Roaring Fork Valley from bigger cities where modern design is part of everyday life. “Trends typically start in cities and make their way out beyond,” Rajartnam and Furlong explain.
To achieve the look, designers perfect the combination of modern and rustic to achieve an updated, elevated spin. Incorporating rich, neutral color schemes, furniture pieces with straight lines and textures such as hide-on-hide leather, boucle and hand-knotted wool rugs harmonize to create depth and interest. “Timeless patterns in fabrics and wallcovering with select pops of color create a modern aesthetic,” note Rajaratnam and Furlong. Mixed metals and dimensional art coupled with natural wood statement pieces create a sense of bringing the beauty of the outdoors into the living space. The result is an inviting, nurturing retreat that exudes warmth.
Photo by Elisabeth Gordon Photography
Diane Gordon Design incorporates a Mountain Modern aesthetic in homes in the Denver metro area. In a Central Park kitchen remodel, the homeowner was German and bringing in the mountain style helped her feel more at home. “Kitchen cabinets are a modern slab style in a deep gray stain. On the island, we incorporated a rough sawn wood top for informal dining,” Gordon says. “The countertops and tile in crisp white keep the look bright and airy. Floors in a warmer tone offset the cool, gray elements and pops of yellow liven the look.”
A basement remodel combines a bright, airy backdrop with gray media cabinets. A warm wood barn door separates the entertaining space from the children’s playroom. Iron railings, a modern light fixture and a deep pile area rug make the room welcoming and warm. “Clean lines” are Gordon’s key to creating an inviting ambience.
“Ultimately, every home design reflects a client’s vision and style,” Rajaratnam emphasizes. “Photography of local historical landmarks and artwork depicting an area’s natural beauty help create a timelessness that reflects the true beauty of mountain style.”
