Creating Serene Spaces: Inspirations from Colorado and Cotswolds

There’s a magic in spaces, a quiet whisper that invites you to pause, breathe, and simply be. For me, the art of creating serene spaces began with two places that couldn’t have been more different yet share a beauty and tranquility that speak to my soul: Colorado and the Cotswolds.

I had always been drawn to the peace of nature. As an interior designer, I believe that the spaces we inhabit should feel like an extension of the natural world—calming, grounding, and truly reflective of the beauty around us. My design philosophy is inspired by two very different yet equally captivating landscapes: the majestic Rocky Mountains of Colorado and the timeless charm of the English countryside in the Cotswolds. By drawing from both places, I have created a design approach that blends rustic tranquility with elegant simplicity, transforming homes into serene sanctuaries.

Inspiration from the Rocky Mountains of Colorado

Colorado’s Rocky Mountains are where I discovered the power of simplicity and natural beauty in design. The vastness of the mountains, their rugged peaks, and the surrounding dense forests create a sense of awe and peace that is hard to replicate anywhere else. There is a stillness in the air, a kind of grounded energy that encourages slowing down and truly connecting with the environment. The colors and textures of the landscape speak to me: soft greens of pine trees, deep earthy browns of the forest floor, and the sharp whites of snow-capped peaks.

For me, the most important lesson I learned from Colorado is the idea of creating spaces that flow effortlessly with the natural surroundings. I take inspiration from the landscape to design rooms that feel spacious and open, filled with natural light and inviting views of the outdoors. To capture the essence of Colorado’s beauty, I incorporate materials like rough-hewn wood, stone, and glass into my designs. These elements not only bring nature indoors but also evoke a sense of connection with the environment.

My designs often feature expansive windows that allow the outside to become part of the room, whether it’s a mountain vista or a forested landscape. I use soft, earthy tones—like sage, terracotta, and muted grays—on walls, furnishings, and fabrics, creating a sense of calm and balance. It’s about bringing nature in, while ensuring the space feels peaceful and welcoming.

Inspiration from the Cotswolds Countryside

On the other side of the world, the Cotswolds in England offer a completely different type of serenity. This region is known for its idyllic country villages, rolling hills, and stone cottages that seem to belong in another era. The beauty of the Cotswolds is subtle and quiet, with a focus on organic elegance. The golden stone used in many of the buildings and homes here has been worn by centuries of weather, creating a warm, comforting atmosphere that invites you to relax and take your time.

The Cotswolds have taught me the importance of understated elegance in interior design. There’s a certain simplicity to the way homes are designed here—rooms feel cozy and intimate, with a focus on practicality and timeless beauty. The gardens are an extension of the home, often filled with fragrant herbs, lavender, and climbing roses. It’s a space where life unfolds slowly and peacefully, and I aim to recreate that same sense of calm in my designs.

Incorporating elements like textured stone, weathered wood, and vintage furniture is my way of bringing the spirit of the Cotswolds into a home. I love using natural materials, such as linen and wool, for soft furnishings like curtains, cushions and throws. The colors I choose are often soft neutrals—creamy whites, gentle greens, and earthy taupes—that create a serene, welcoming environment. I also embrace the beauty of imperfection, with distressed furniture and handcrafted pieces that give a room character and a sense of history.

Blending Rocky Mountain Ruggedness with Cotswold Charm

When designing serene spaces, I see the beauty in combining the rugged natural elements of Colorado’s mountains with the rustic elegance of the Cotswolds. These two regions might seem worlds apart, but together they create a perfect harmony. I love combining the warmth of weathered stone and timber from the Cotswolds with the expansive openness and clean lines of mountain-inspired design. The contrast between these two influences helps create a balanced, peaceful atmosphere that feels timeless.

I often use materials from both landscapes in my designs. For example, I’ll pair reclaimed wood furniture—something you might find in a Cotswolds cottage—with stone accents reminiscent of the Colorado mountains. The addition of greenery, like plants and herbs, helps tie the spaces together, providing a touch of the outdoors that brings the serenity of both places indoors. Soft, neutral colors throughout the space create a calming atmosphere, while textured fabrics—like linen curtains or wool rugs—add warmth and comfort.

Creating Serenity Through Thoughtful Design

Ultimately, creating serene spaces is about more than just aesthetics; it’s about crafting an environment that encourages relaxation, peace, and well-being. Whether drawing inspiration from the rugged beauty of the Rocky Mountains or the quiet charm of the Cotswolds, my goal is to design spaces where my clients can unwind and reconnect with themselves and nature.

By integrating natural materials, focusing on light and openness, and embracing the beauty of simplicity, I create environments that are as much about feeling as they are about design. The homes I craft aren’t just places to live—they are sanctuaries that nurture the soul. And that’s what truly makes a space serene: the way it makes you feel, the way it inspires you to slow down, breathe, and appreciate the beauty around you.

So whether it’s the towering peaks of Colorado or the rolling hills of the Cotswolds, I draw on the timeless tranquility of nature to help create spaces that inspire peace and harmony every day.