Most any good Western nester at some point fantasizes about a rustic ranch or remote alpine retreat.
Americans have long been seduced by the independent spirit and natural beauty that characterizes Western living.
But the hottest home design vendors at this weekend’s Denver International Western/English Apparel and Equipment Market at the Denver Merchandise Mart prove that when it comes to outfitting today’s Western home, decorating pioneers look for more color, cleaner lines, smaller furniture and fewer cowboy and Indian motifs than in the past.
These are more eclectic interiors that take cues from the Old West while supporting contemporary life.
“We’re hearing terms bounced around like ‘mountain modern,’ ” says Linda Johnston, manager of Evergreen’s Rocky Mountain Home and Design Center. “It’s a pretty eclectic mix that incorporates the Western cowboy look with everything from Victorian (antiques) to sleek, modern pieces.”
Also key to the new Western look in home design: local talent and materials. Today’s thrifty homeowners want value in their purchases; that often means seeking out furniture made by and shipped from Colorado artists — a greener choice.
New West pieces “are well-crafted and have this character of where they’re from,” concludes Daniel Lewis, co-owner of Revampt, a sustainable home store set to open in Cherry Creek North next month. The store will stock mainly reclaimed, recycled and refurbished furniture and accessories. “I think of old cowboys and ranch homes,” he says, but in a contemporary setting.
On Page 5D, you will find eight Colorado furniture makers or companies that support this idea of the New West in home design.
