A Boulder New-Build Invites Nature In
And inspires its residents to get outside
Photography by Emily Minton Redfield | Styling by Julia Völkel Emerson
“One of our family values is we love to be outside.” So it makes sense that this 40-something couple—after stints in Wisconsin, Amsterdam and Denver—chose to land in Boulder and eventually build on 1.25 acres in Githens Acres, a neighborhood defined by its large trees and no-street-light, rural feel. The surrounding landscape provides year-round natural beauty, quiet and plenty of space for their brood—two teenage sons and a labradoodle— to roam, wander or just zen out on the deck.
Gathering Room The home features not only a great room, but also a more intimate, informal space the family calls the gathering room. “We use it mostly in the winter to sit by the fire, play board games, hang out with small groups of friends or escape the teenagers,” the homeowner says. The art above the fireplace is You Caused Me to Roam by Shawn Huckins.
“I am conscious of trying to bring the outdoors inside, using the colors of nature—nuanced greens, blues, creams, stone.” — Designer Susan Hall
Gathering Room The painting by local artist Ana María Hernando is a family favorite, as is the 3-D artwork by their eighth grader, displayed on the Annie Selke cocktail table. “We enjoy mixing all kinds of art in our home,” the homeowner says. “If it makes us happy, we love to show it.” Art consultant Ann Benson Reidy assisted with the selections. The hallway on the right leads to the TV and billiard room and upstairs bedrooms.
The homeowners chose architect Dale Hubbard of Surround Architecture, whose modern-farmhouse design style spoke to their Midwestern roots. “Although my mom would argue this is not a farmhouse,” the homeowner says with a chuckle.
Kitchen This is the family’s favorite room, and the center of much of their activity. They had commissioned American Flag by textile artist Maryanne Quinn for their former house, and the artist hid the word “home” in one of the white stripes. “I love that it now anchors this prominent space in our new home,” the owner says.
With a huge backyard, very mature trees and a wooded view of Wonderland Creek, the easy-living 4,450-square-foot, four-bedroom, five-bath home features 20-foot ceilings and windows galore, “to bring some of those larger, higher views into the space,” Hubbard says.
Master Bedroom High windows bring treetop views to every bedroom. “You feel like you’re in a tree fort, up in the canopy,” the owner says. The light streaming into the master bedroom is organic and calming, while the reds in the John Robshaw bedding add energy.
“And today, with our dog, our boys, all the activity—now it is truly a home, with smudges, scrapes and all.”
— Homeowner
Master Bathroom The couple wanted a master bath that wasn’t too traditional, typical or out-of-the-box modern. Mission accomplished. The Serena Drum Chandelier by Oly was in the dining room of their previous home. “We didn’t want to part with it, so we found a place we could enjoy it each day,” the owner says.
Interior designer Susan Hall’s organic style dovetailed perfectly with the home design. “I am conscious of trying to bring the outdoors inside, using the colors of nature—nuanced greens, blues, creams, stone.” Hall started with the paint color, selecting Benjamin Moore Pale Oak, which the owner says “feels like a warm blanket.” Hall used it throughout to add softness to the walls and create a more intimate feel than might be expected with the soaring ceilings.
Patio Once the weather warms up, this is where the family spends most of their time. It’s their happy spot. This view is from the kitchen, looking through the wide-open glass NanaWall. The sofas are by Arhaus, the chairs are from Target, and the owl stool is from designer Susan Hall’s own collection.
Back-Yard Fireplace Towering trees surround the old, now decorative, existing fireplace, with Wonderland Creek burbling just beyond. “There is something so simple and enjoyable about sharing quiet time with friends and family in our little, hidden back-yard haven,” the homeowner says.
“Our intention wasn’t to have some luxury, showcase house,” the owners say, “but a warm, welcoming home we could really live in. And today, with our dog, our boys, all the activity— now it is truly a home, with smudges, scrapes and all.”
DESIGN DETAILS
ARCHITECT Dale Hubbard, Surround Architecture INTERIOR DESIGNER Susan Hall, Buttercup Home Custom Interiors BUILDER Derek Guarascio, Treeline Homes LANDSCAPE DESIGNER Brian Carlson, Green Landscape Solutions
