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The journey of a young couple’s relocation
When a young couple decided to move from the sun-soaked coasts of California to the picturesque landscapes of Colorado, they embraced the chance for a fresh start. Their vision was clear: they wanted a home that reflected both of their cultural heritages—American and British—creating a space that embodies relaxation and sophistication without feeling overly formal. This dream was entrusted to the talented design team of Salvesen Graham, based in Colorado, led by Mary Graham and Nicole Salvesen.
Designing with a purpose
Mary and Nicole have recently released a new design book titled New English Style: Timeless Interiors, showcasing their philosophy of blending styles seamlessly. Although they often work with historic properties in the UK, this American Craftsman home captured their attention due to its rich history. The residence, nestled amidst the stunning Rocky Mountains, boasts a beautiful brick and shiplap exterior and a sprawling veranda that echoes the charm of a bygone era.
The design team was particularly drawn to the house’s heritage features, which they meticulously preserved throughout the renovation process. As Nicole aptly puts it, these features were not just to be maintained but enhanced and celebrated. This approach allowed the home to retain its historical significance while adapting to contemporary living.
Balancing modernity with tradition
Nicole emphasizes that their goal was not to create a museum-like environment that only echoed the past. Instead, they aimed to find a balance that felt appropriate for the home’s character. For instance, the entrance hall features a charming patterned wallpaper that evokes a Victorian essence, paired with an Arts and Crafts lantern that adds a touch of nostalgia.
While respecting the home’s original architecture, the design team was not afraid to modernize certain aspects. They painted some of the original pine woodwork a calming sage green, which helped tone down its vibrant orange hues. This thoughtful choice allowed the stunning craftsmanship of the unpainted sections to shine through, creating a harmonious visual experience throughout the space.
A sophisticated yet inviting drawing room
Unlike the typical cozy atmosphere found in many libraries, this drawing room radiates a sophisticated and mature vibe. The couple actively participated in the design process, even assisting in sourcing artwork for the space, including an eye-catching abstract floral piece. Their involvement reflects a deeper connection to their home, making it a true representation of their tastes and preferences.
One notable challenge faced by Graham and Salvesen was the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, which shifted their collaboration with the clients to virtual meetings. This adjustment was unprecedented, yet it brought a unique dynamic to the design process. Mary recalls an amusing moment during their first builder meeting, where the builder appeared on screen wearing a Stetson—a delightful reminder of the local culture that the couple was eager to embrace.
For many expatriates, the pandemic intensified feelings of distance from their original homes. This longing undoubtedly influenced the couple’s desire to incorporate English elements into their American Craftsman abode, creating a space that feels authentically theirs.
Creatively utilizing transitional spaces
In a home where every inch counts, the design team transformed a pass-through area into a multifunctional hallway-library. This intentional design choice connects the various rooms while providing a cozy nook for reflection or reading, showcasing the couple’s love for literature.
Modern functionality meets classic design
One of the most critical aspects of renovating an older home is maintaining its integrity while accommodating modern living. For this project, rather than opting for an open floor plan, the designers preserved the home’s relatively formal layout, ensuring each room retained its unique character.
At the back of the house lies a Shaker-style kitchen, a perfect fusion of practicality and English charm. The kitchen is painted in soft shades of blue, with fitted units and a sizable island that invites both cooking and conversation.
Dining in the treetops
The informal dining space, affectionately dubbed the “hearth room,” features windows on three sides, creating an enchanting atmosphere that makes diners feel as if they’re perched among the treetops. The decor includes a striped floral fabric that adorns the curtains and Roman shades, echoing the painted tongue-and-groove paneling on the ceiling. Vintage rattan chairs, upholstered dining chairs, and a built-in window seat painted in a vibrant green contribute to the layered aesthetic that Salvesen Graham is known for.
A colorful and cheerful retreat
Venturing upstairs, the bedrooms, particularly the master suite, showcase a delightful mix of colors and patterns. From floral designs to soft geometrics, the space is a cheerful palette of pinks and greens, creating a vibrant yet soothing atmosphere conducive to rest and relaxation.
Mary Graham and Nicole Salvesen founded their firm, Salvesen Graham, in 2013 in London. With nearly 25 years of combined experience, they are celebrated for their ability to create layered, timeless interiors that evoke warmth and comfort. Influenced by the elegance of Georgian architecture and the rich textiles of 18th and 19th-century India, their work seamlessly weaves together classical British charm with modern sensibilities, offering clients a home that is both stylish and inviting.