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Sierra Fox didn’t just stumble upon the world of design; it was more like a gravitational pull, one deeply tied to her upbringing and experiences in the mountains. With a name that translates to ‘mountain range’ in Spanish, it feels almost serendipitous that she would establish her design firm, Studio MTN, in both Los Angeles and Sun Valley, Idaho. Growing up, she was immersed in the great outdoors, skiing her way through life. I can’t help but picture her as a young girl, racing down the slopes, surrounded by towering trees and breathtaking landscapes that clearly shaped her aesthetic. She recalls a cherished memory of hiking with her mother, returning home with arms full of tree bark, which they hoped to use in a home project. Fast forward years later, and she walks into a showroom only to find an entire wall adorned with tree bark—proof that her childhood instincts were spot on.
Nature as a guiding principle
Fox’s design ethos is heavily influenced by her connection to nature. “It’s hard not to want those natural elements when designing homes,” she confesses, emphasizing her desire to keep materials as close to their original form as possible. This philosophy shines through in her carefully curated spaces, which feature rich wood grains, sumptuous fabrics, and unique pieces that evoke the beauty of the wild. Picture a side table that resembles a boulder—it’s not just furniture; it’s a conversation starter, a piece of art that provides a stark contrast to the smooth finish of other surfaces. “If you have a shearling chair versus a smooth wood surface, it gives a lot of depth,” she explains. The textures she incorporates are not only visually appealing but also provide a tactile experience that invites people to engage with their surroundings.
Crafting cozy yet sophisticated ski homes
One might think that designing ski homes would mean leaning into the clichés of rustic, overly cozy aesthetics. Yet, Fox takes a different route, expertly weaving in elements of alpine culture without compromising on sophistication. “I love leaning into things that are organic, earthy, rustic but I don’t like things that are overly girly, patterned, and boho,” she states. Instead, she finds herself drawn to textures over colors, allowing the natural elements to speak for themselves. Neutrals, she argues, lead the way in her designs, creating a calming foundation for her spaces. But that doesn’t mean color is entirely absent; it plays a supporting role, particularly in the form of greens that remind her of her childhood in Hawaii. It’s fascinating how a simple memory can inspire such a vibrant palette!
From athlete to design powerhouse
While Fox eventually stepped away from competitive skiing, the discipline and work ethic she developed as an athlete remained firmly intact. Her passion for design runs deep; she’s “in love and obsessed” with her work. “You can’t have a clock in, clock out mentality,” she insists, reflecting on her early days when she was eager to be involved in every project but lacked the experience. It took time, hard work, and collaboration with builders and architects for her to truly establish her brand and expertise. It’s a journey that resonates with many aspiring professionals—success doesn’t happen overnight.
A design philosophy steeped in cultural energy
Instead of following fleeting trends, Fox prefers to tap into what she calls “cultural energy.” It’s about understanding the needs of people and responding to them. Nowadays, she notices a collective yearning for calmness within homes. “There is this looming sense of unease,” she observes. “Everyone wants to find a sense of security in the future. To me, that means finding solace at home, a mellow color palette, and spaces that don’t clash with each other.” Her aim is to create environments that offer a warm embrace, a refuge from the chaos of the outside world. It’s a noble goal, one that many of us can surely relate to in our quest for a peaceful sanctuary.
Signature elements and collaborations
Every designer has their signature touch, and for Fox, it’s antique rugs. “I’ve never done a project without at least one antique rug in it,” she admits, revealing a personal favorite. Additionally, she has a fondness for thick walnut slabs, which add a rich, tactile quality to her work. It’s interesting how certain pieces tell stories of their own, isn’t it? When asked about potential collaborations, she mentions Rick Rubin, whose unique style she admires. Being around someone with such artistic flair could undoubtedly elevate her own creativity—imagine the magic that could unfold there!
Bringing it all together
As Fox continues to meld her varied experiences—from the mountains to the islands—into her design philosophy, she remains committed to creating spaces that resonate with the hearts of their inhabitants. Her work isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s a reflection of personal journeys, memories, and the beauty of nature. After all, as many know, our surroundings significantly influence our state of mind. Whether you’re a young designer or simply someone in love with beautiful spaces, Fox’s approach offers a refreshing reminder of the power of nature and personal history in shaping our homes.