Issuu

S E P TE M B E R 2 02 5

# 1 REAL ESTATE TEAM IN DENVER

Josh Behr • 303.903.9535 BehrTeam.com

Behrs@TheBehrTeam.com

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LIBBY WEAVER 303.870.9930

Compass is a licensed real estate broker. All material is intended for informational purposes only and is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdrawal without notice. No statement is made as to the accuracy of any description or measurements (including square footage). This is not intended to solicit property already listed. No ﬁnancial or legal advice provided. Equal Housing Opportunity. Photos may be virtually staged or digitally enhanced and may not reﬂect actual property conditions.

PAM HELM 303.548.1996

Your hair’s story, told in movement and color. Hale • Boulder • Berkeley • Arvada 720 307 2644 sweepsalons.com

Ariel Posen • Banshee Tree Boulder Philharmonic Orchestra Danger Foley • DNA Picasso David Lawrence and the Spoonfuls Fruta Brutal • The Galentines GEN3 • Hazel Miller and the Collective No Signal • Old Man Saxon

Yonder Mountain String Band Andy Frasco and the U.N. North Mississippi Allstars Karl Denson's Tiny Universe The Rumble

Pete Wernick & Flexigrass Rootbeer Richie & The Reveille The Velvet DaydreaM Wrenn Van • and more!

LIFESTYLE LETTER

Camping State of Mind While pumpkins are popping up outside of the grocery store and the aisles are starting to fill with fall decor, the air still feels like summer here in Colorado, so it’s not quite time to say goodbye to summer activities. Camping always has a solidified place on my summer activity list. Before summer comes to a close, give yourself some time to get out of cell service, enjoy some leisurely walks through the trees, card and dice games with friends, and whiskey by the fire. And when you’re lucky enough to have friends that love to cook, PB&Js are not on the menu, a proper feast in the woods is in order. These recipes bring in one of my other favorite parts of late summer here in Colorado, Palisade peaches! Before the peaches run out and the temperature drops, we have the chance to take one of these September weekends to get out for a camping trip, reconnect with nature, and with a simpler side of ourselves.

September 2025 P U B L I S H E R , SALE S D I R E C TO R

Andy Manz | amanz@citylifestyle.com M AN AG I N G E D I TO R

Kate Manz | kmanz@citylifestyle.com P U B L I CAT I O N D I R E C TO R

Chantel Ellerington | chantel.ellerington@citylifestyle.com E D I TO R , STAF F P H OTO G R AP H E R

Kelsey Huffer | kelsey.huffer@citylifestyle.com C O PY E D I TO R

Tony Firestine | anthonyjfirestine@gmail.com INTERN

Edson Graycar | edson.graycar@citylifestyle.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Carly Rohs, Edson Graycar, Cassidy Ritter, Tony Firestine C O N T R I B U T I N G P H OTO G R AP H E R S

Poppy & Co. by Kelsey Huffer, Megan Reznicek, Emma Hussey

Corporate Team KELSEY HUFFER, EDITOR @ C H E R RYC R E E K L I F E S T Y L E

CEO Steven Schowengerdt COO Matthew Perry CRO Jamie Pentz VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman LAYOUT DESIGNER Kirstan Lanier QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Anna Minnick

Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com//franchise. Proverbs 3:5-6 Cherry Creek Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Cherry Creek area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle

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Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Cherry Creek Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

inside the issue SE PT EMBER 2 0 2 5 | ST Y L E

36 46

Featured

36 46 58 14

58 On the Cover

Back to Nature

Vlad Dubovskiy, of ELMNTL Shelters & Saunas, Builds Eco-Friendly Dwellings for Those Reclaiming Their Spirit of Adventure and Getting Back to Nature—Each structure is Also Made For and From the Earth

A Colorado Local’s Guide to Fall Camping Elevate Your Camp Meals Through Easy Prep, and Enjoy Uninterrupted Time in the Mountains

The Style of Substance

Inside Lawrence Covell, Cherry Creek’s Best-Kept-Secret Boutique Where Craft, Character, and Quiet Confidence Prevail

Rooted in Colorado

The Expanding World and Ever-Evolving Journey of Colorado Artist Topher Straus

The Style of Substance

Photography: Poppy & Co. by Kelsey Huffer

Departments 12

Lifestyle Letter

City Scene

Business Monthly

Home Update HOME + DESIGN

Outdoor Adventure SPORTS + RECREATION

Fashion Forward STYLE + BEAUTY

Artist’s Palette ARTS + CULTURE

Locals Only ENTERTAINMENT

SEPTEMBER 2025

city scene WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

FRANK MONTANEZ

EMMA MONTANEZ

DAVID DUNDA

AVA STOUT

LIZ LEVY

EMMA MONTANEZ

LIZ LEVY

1-7: The streets of Cherry Creek North were filled with 260 exhibiting artists and throngs of festivalgoers over July 4 weekend, during the 34th annual Cherry Creek Arts Festival.

CONTINUED >

C I T Y SC E N E

FALL INTO FLAWLESS September is the season of transformation — Let your lashes, brows, and skin lead the way. Whether you’re back to work, back to school, or just back to you, we’re here to elevate your fall beauty routine. Lash Extensions & Lifts – for effortless autumn glam Brow Laminations & Tints – your brows, but better Fall Refresh Facials – glow into sweater weather Waxing – smooth skin, cozy confidence

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city scene CONTINUED

7 6

1-7: Artist Jamie Kripke was part of a month-long celebration with the brand Bocci at Studio Como Aspen, showcasing his most recent project, Expansion. The Bocci pop-up showcased a range of styles, from intimate table lamps to statement chandeliers. For the closing reception, Jamie hosted a listening session with hand-picked vinyl.

Want to be seen in the magazine? TA G Y O U R I N S TA G R A M P H O T O S W I T H @ C H E R R Y C R E E K L I F E S T Y L E

C I T Y SC E N E

SEPTEMBER 2025

business monthly A R O U N D U P O F N E W S F R O M LO C A L B U S I N E S S E S

The Bindery Opens in Concourse A of Denver International Airport The Bindery, a popular all-day restaurant, raw bar, bakery, and market, opened in A West (gate A24) at Denver International Airport. Like the original LoHi location, The Bindery offers a made-from-scratch menu of modern American cuisine inspired by Chef/Owner Linda Hampsten Fox’s heritage and global travels. Seasonal ingredients are sourced from Colorado purveyors, pastries are baked on-site, and a full bar and Grab & Go items are available for travelers looking for local flavors.

Photography: The Bindery CONTINUED >

B USIN E SS M ON T H LY

BUILDING EXTRAORDINARY IMPACT

IN BUSINESS, WEALTH & COMMUNITY TOGETHER

NEW BANKING CENTER NOW OPEN IN CHERRY CREEK NORTH

Member FDIC

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business monthly CONTINUED

John Atencio's Refer a Friend Program John Atencio's is rewarding customers for introducing friends to the brand they love. When a customer refers someone who hasn't shopped before, both get rewarded, making it a meaningful way to share the experience. To learn more, visit JohnAtencio.com or stop by the Cherry Creek Mall store to shop.

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Connect with a curated selection of Kentwood Real Estate Agents renowned for their mastery in the Cherry Creek locale.

Allison Craig

303.587.4700

Jim Rhye

Julie Winger

720.436.9864

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Stephanie Lepard 303.885.4746

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Ann Kerr 303.818.8668

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All information deemed reliable

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any reference to square footage,

bedrooms andandbathrooms. bedrooms bathrooms. AllAll

properties are are subject properties subjectto toprior prior sale,sale, change changeor or withdrawal. withdrawal. Neither listingbroker(s) broker(s) nor nor Neither listing Kentwood Estateshall shallbebe Kentwood RealReal Estate responsible typographical responsible for for anyany typographical errors, misinformation, misprints errors, misinformation, misprints and shall be held totally harmless.

and shall be held totally harmless.

gina Lorenzen

gina Lorenzen gina@kentwood.com

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H OM E U P DAT E | HO M E + D E SIGN

T B AC K O U R T E NA VLAD DUBOVSKIY, OF ELMNTL SHELTERS & SAUNAS, BUILDS ECO-FRIENDLY DWELLINGS FOR THOSE RECLAIMING THEIR SPIRIT OF ADVENTURE AND GETTING BACK TO NATURE— EACH STRUCTURE IS ALSO MADE FOR AND FROM THE EARTH ARTICLE BY CASSIDY RITTER

Data scientist and entrepreneur Vlad Dubovskiy grew tired of New York City’s bustling scene and spending hours on end in front of his laptop each day. He wanted to live in “beautiful natural settings” away from the city and his computer. So, he began building his own tiny house. “I knew nothing about construction. So this was one of those things where I would just spend weeks in a YouTube rabbit hole watching other guys who build tiny homes on wheels,” says Vlad. Once his 150-square-foot tiny home on wheels was complete, he hit the road, traveling across the United States, stopping in places like Rocky Mountain National Park, Joshua Tree, and the Grand Canyon. Vlad was even featured on HGTV’s Tiny House, Big Living due to the work-life balance design his tiny home provided. The home, which he recently sold, had a picturesque workspace with a large window, a loft hammock, and a hanging garden. Tiny home living allowed Vlad the freedom and space he was looking for—something he wanted to share with others. It also planted the seed for his next business venture, ELMNTL Shelters & Saunas, a prefab manufacturer building eco-friendly dwellings. Vlad paired agile development and rapid prototyping cycles from his software background with beautiful designs and his experience crafting small spaces. He founded Longmont-based ELMNTL in 2017. CONTINUED >

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Photo By Emma Hussey

H OM E U P DAT E | HO M E + D E SIGN

“[The business] was informed by this desire to bring beauty into the world and also allow more people to experience what I’ve experienced, which is to get out to the great outdoors in a beautiful place that really feels like home, or that hugs you in a way through its design,” Vlad says. ELMNTL began with a bespoke portfolio of cabins and saunas in Colorado’s mountains and has since transformed into a prefab manufacturer of cabins, ADUs, and saunas. The company offers 12 base design options, starting at $36,000, and hundreds of customizable options. Its structures are built at the company’s facility in Longmont in about seven months. Once the dwelling’s walls, windows, doors, and other components are brought to a customer’s home or plot of land, installation takes just four hours, says Vlad. The quick build and installation process is just one way Vlad is using his business to change the user experience in the construction industry. Rather than working with unpredictable or overrun budgets and timelines, which are typical for new builds, ELMNTL offers fixed-price guarantees and timelines up front. But ELMNTL’s ethos extends beyond numbers and dates. The heart of the company is building beautiful structures made for and from the planet and bringing people back to nature and the “spirit of adventure,” says Vlad. “We weren’t built for inboxes and asphalt. We were made to gather around fire, to feel the bite of wind, the weight of stone,” he says, referring to a poem about his company. “ … We craft spaces and tools not to escape life, but to return to it—to the grit and grace of living closer to what matters.”

Be it an ADU or backyard office in a Denver backyard or a cabin in the Olympic Mountains of Washington, ELMNTL’s builds enhance customers’ surrounding landscapes and environments. The company’s designs, created by head of design Jonno Holden and Vlad, draw inspiration from the rugged beauty of Colorado and feature expansive floor-toceiling windows that bring the outside in. Each sauna, ADU, and cabin is made from “pure materials” that are safe to breathe and be around, Vlad says. “We go above and beyond,” he says. Each build meets the most stringent energy codes in Colorado and features airtight doors and windows, and a continuous insulation blanket that makes living comfortable and heating the space affordable. “We don’t use any plastics, and that’s a little philosophical; we don’t like the idea that a building cannot go back to the earth in totality. … We want to make sure the building has an end of life that ends in the earth or can be repurposed for future builds.” As ELMNTL continues to design and build spaces around how people interact with nature, it’s also expanding. The company recently launched a turnkey service for hospitality clients and a new cabin design, Shelter S2, that features glass on three sides of the dwelling. It’s also offering more module options that show how several cabins or ADUs can be fitted together and grow as clients’ needs and families evolve. In the near future, ELMNTL will offer new roof designs and quadruple its capacity, expanding its physical footprint in Longmont. Learn more at ELMNTL.io. CONTINUED >

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Photo By Emma Hussey

H OM E U P DAT E | HO M E + D E SIGN

CONTINUED > S EP TEMB ER 2 0 2 5 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/C H E R RYC R E E K

H OM E U P DAT E | HO M E + D E SIGN

“ WE WE RE N

I LT FOR U B ’T

A S PH ALT. D I N BOX ES A N WE GATH E R O T WE RE MADE TO FE E L , E TH A RO U N D F I R E

, TH E W E I G H D T B ITE O F W I N O F STO N E .” S EP TEMB ER 2 0 2 5 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/C H E R RYC R E E K

RODWIN ARCHITECTURE

Celebrating

SKYCASTLE CONSTRUCTION

25 Years of Extraordinary Homes

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R A COLO ADO GUIDE TO FA 36

O UT D OOR A DV E N T U R E | SPORTS + RE CRE AT ION

ARTICLE BY CARLY ROHS PHOTOGRAPHY BY POPPY & CO. BY KELSEY HUFFER

ELEVATE YOUR CAMP MEALS THROUGH EASY PREP, AND ENJOY UNINTERRUPTED TIME IN THE MOUNTAINS

O LOCAL'S ALL CAMPING CONTINUED >

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Summer is over, school is back in session, and the tourists have gone home (for the time being). September, aka locals’ season, is the best time for camping in Colorado. While we may not have time to make it all the way out to the Maroon Bells for a weekend trip, luckily, we have countless gems easily accessible from the Denver metro area. My preferences for camping boomeranged from car camping in college to intense backpacking trips in my 20s, right back to car camping in my 30s. These experiences have instilled in me the unwavering belief that the outdoors are for everyone. Whether it is car camping for the first time or trying out backpacking, there can be an intimidation factor to getting outside. This guide is to help encourage you to continue exploring our beautiful state, or perhaps provide inspiration to try something new with friends.

O UT D OOR A DV E N T U R E | SPORTS + RE CRE AT ION

ACTIVITIES OTHER THAN HIKING:

I love adventures as much as the next Coloradoan, but going into the mountains doesn’t always have to be about chasing adrenaline. 1. Reading - Crack open the book that has been sitting on your nightstand. 2. Games - Favorites include Rummikub and Euchre. 3. Leisure activities - Long, slow walks with a beverage in hand or naps by rivers/creeks. 4. Telling stories - Nothing fills my cup more quickly than sitting around the campfire and telling stories with friends.

MY FAVORITE TYPES OF CAMPGROUNDS:

My favorite campgrounds are a little more relaxed, usually not requiring a reservation, and perfect for the last-minute trip. 1. National Forest Campgrounds Type: Mostly, dispersed camping Pros: Quiet, oftentimes free or less expensive than other sites. Lots available closer to Denver. Cons: Limited amenities. As some sites get more popular, the National Forest Service has understandably implemented a reservation system, with a fee. Double-check if your intended site requires one at recreation.gov. Campground of note: Buffalo Campground in Pike National Forest

2. Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land Type: Mostly dispersed camping Pros: Oftentimes free, and no reservations or car limits, thus good for groups. Cons: No one regulates the camping areas. Be aware of your surroundings. Area of note: Rabbit Valley outside of Fruita on the Western Slope *Apps like iOverlander are great for finding spots. You can also book private campgrounds on sites like HipCamp.

CAMPING ETIQUETTE

There are some etiquette rules for camping. Intended to help us respect the land we are privileged to have in our backyard. 1. Leave no trace - Please put all your trash in the dumpster, or carry it out with you. 2. Put out your fire! - No explanation needed here. Coals from an improperly extinguished fire can remain hot for days under the ashes. 3. Make a reservation in advance - If you didn’t pay online, remember to bring cash for the fees. Campgrounds with fees are about $25/night. 4. Respect the noise rules - Campgrounds will have a quiet time starting at 10 PM. Be courteous of those around you. 5. Keep your dog on a leash where required. Even if you have a sweet, baby angel that can do no wrong, you don’t know how your neighbor’s sweet, baby angel might react.

CAMP COOKING:

I believe your meal does not need to sacrifice flavor, simply because you are away from home. All it takes is quick prep at home and visiting a local store to elevate that camp meal.

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AL PASTOR TACO

BANANA BOAT

Ingredients: • Pre-seasoned al pastor meat - Lowe’s Mercado • Fresh tortillas and salsa - Tortilleria Panderia Abarrotes La Pasadita • Sliced limes • Chopped cilantro • Chopped avocado • Chopped fresh peaches

Ingredients: • 1 bar of chocolate • Marshmallows • Bananas • Aluminum foil

All ingredients purchased pre-seasoned or prepped at home.

Instructions: Grill meat on your camp stove or right over the fire, about three minutes per side. Heat tortillas over fire. Assemble tacos as desired and feast!

O UT D OOR A DV E N T U R E | SPORTS + RE CRE AT ION

A nostalgic dessert, elevated by splurging on nicer chocolate, like Theo’s Orange Chocolate.

Instructions: Cut lengthwise slit along the banana. Open slightly and stuff with marshmallows and chocolate. Wrap in foil, and seal. Place in the embers of the fire for 5-10 minutes, depending on how hot your fire is. Carefully remove, open up, and enjoy with a fork or spoon.

FRENCH TOAST

Pre-make your French toast batter to avoid packing eggs in your cooler. Ingredients: French toast batter: • 3 cups heavy cream (can substitute non-dairy milk) • 3 large egg yolks • 1 tbsp vanilla extract • 3 tbsp brown sugar • 1 tbsp cinnamon • ¼ tsp cardamom • ¼ tsp nutmeg • ½ tsp kosher salt

Remaining: • 1 pre-sliced loaf of bread • Sliced Fresh Fruit • Maple Syrup • Butter Instructions: At home, combine all the French toast batter ingredients into a jar. Shake well until fully mixed. At the campground, dip sliced bread pieces into batter, and cook on a buttered pan for ~2-3 minutes per side. Serve immediately with fresh fruit and drizzled maple syrup.

CONTINUED >

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O UT D OOR A DV E N T U R E | SPORTS + RE CRE AT ION

September, aka locals’ season, is the best time for camping in Colorado. While we may not have time to make it all the way out to the Maroon Bells for a weekend trip, luckily, we have countless gems easily accessible from the Denver metro area.

S EP TEMB ER 2 0 2 5 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/C H E R RYC R E E K

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DENVER’S FIRST MOBILE OYSTER BAR

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“Haley Custom Homes was able to get us in touch with an architect who turned our vision into a plan. From there, the Haley team took over. We had an aggressive timeline and the team beat it by more than a month. The transformation that occurred was incredible. We are so happy with the end product. The Haley Site Supervisor was personable, kind, and patient. He was knowledgeable about construction and managed the subs well. Haley Custom Homes constantly checked in with us to make sure that we understood the process and were happy with the results. They always encouraged us to take time to make the right decision, and to point out anything that we wanted changed. We are so happy with our incredible home”.

Jason Timian

Accelerated Precision Building System

303-601-9446

haleycustomhomes.com • dan@haleycustomhomes.com

Inside Lawrence Covell, Cherry Creek’s Best-Kept-Secret Boutique Where Craft, Character, and Quiet Confidence Prevail

FASH ION F OR WA R D | STYLE + BE AU T Y

THE STYLE OF SUBARTICLE BY TONY FIRESTINE

PHOTOGRAPHY BY POPPY & CO. BY KELSEY HUFFER CONTINUED >

STANCE S EP TEMB ER 2 0 2 5 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/C H E R RYC R E E K

In an age of fast fashion and faceless retail, walking into Lawrence Covell feels like stepping into a different world—one where quality, conversation, and personal style matter more than trends. In Denver’s Cherry Creek neighborhood, this independent boutique has become a cornerstone of sophisticated fashion for nearly six decades. Lawrence Covell wasn’t always a go-to for Italian tailoring and cult-favorite designers. In 1967, it began in Boulder as a handmade leather goods store, turning out belts, sandals, and handbags that captured the spirit of the Easy Rider era. That spirit—craftsmanship, independence, and maybe a touch of rebellion— still pulses through everything they do. Today, the store is a haven for discerning shoppers who crave something different. These are not clothes meant to shout. They’re meant to fit like a second skin—and make you feel quietly invincible. CONTINUED >

FASH ION F OR WA R D | STYLE + BE AU T Y

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FASH ION F OR WA R D | STYLE + BE AU T Y

“We buy first and foremost what we like for good or for bad,” says Joe Covell, son of the founder, Lawrence Covell, and managing partner, along with his wife, Amy, and mom, Cathy. “We obviously consider local and national trends, but ultimately, I ask myself, ‘Would I wear this?’...They’re not all winners, but I do like them... Maybe we leave some money on the table, but you must be true to yourself.” That ethos—deeply personal and unapologetically independent—is what sets Lawrence Covell apart. While the boutique has introduced major designers like Armani, Versace, and Prada to Colorado since the 1970s, its team is more focused on finding what’s next than chasing what’s already big. “The excitement for us is curating and incubating new lines,” Covell explains. “This isn’t always successful... but for us, it’s not about that. It’s about the joy of discovery.” That joy is palpable when you walk through the doors. You might be offered a beer or espresso before you even glance at the racks. “We’ve always been a very unpretentious place to shop,” Covell says. “That said, we do whatever is necessary to make the customer happy… but a lot of times, that means not ‘selling’ them too, but just catching up when they drop by.” The store’s layout tells the same story—part retail, part living room. Designed to feel like a home, it encourages browsing, relaxing, and conversation. CONTINUED >

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FASH ION F OR WA R D | STYLE + BE AU T Y

That deep personal connection extends to the wardrobe-building experience. The team works closely with each shopper to understand their comfort zones, aspirations, and personalities. “What you want is for [the client] to wear our clothes the most,” Covell says. “That means we’ve done our job.” What they wear varies widely—because individuality is the point. Whether it’s a tailored blazer, a statement knit, or a perfectly worn-in pair of jeans, Lawrence Covell is about curating a look that feels right for you, not your algorithm. “Our aesthetic is one of sophisticated understatement, whether it’s more fashion-forward or more classic,” Covell says. “It’s cool and refined, but it’s not showy.” That commitment to authenticity hasn’t just earned them loyal customers—it’s made them a best-kept secret. While big-box stores come and go, and fashion trends turn like the wind, Lawrence Covell remains rooted in timeless style and human connection. It’s not unusual for new shoppers to leave surprised, thinking to themselves, “I can’t believe I’ve never been here before.” CONTINUED >

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The longevity of the business speaks for itself. Joe’s father still hand-makes leather belts in retirement, a small but telling reminder of the store’s origins in craftsmanship. And the philosophy hasn’t changed: quality over hype, relationships over sales, style over fashion. The right wardrobe can be like a stalwart companion: with you through your day, turning heads, sparking compliments, and lending you that frame of mind when everything just clicks. At Lawrence Covell, they’re not just selling you an outfit—they’re helping you find that feeling—confident, powerful, and unmistakably you—one well-chosen piece at a time. To shop these styles, visit Lawrence Covell.com, 225 Steele St, Denver.

FASH ION F OR WA R D | STYLE + BE AU T Y

Gallery viewings available by appointment

Jamie@jamiekripke.com

2304 Pine Street Boulder, CO 80302

Jamiekripke.com @jamiekripke

Monday Nights

3-Course Prefix Menu $35

Tuesday Nights

Burger Night $10 Our Signature “Mac” Burger with house chips

Wednesday Nights $8 Martinis

Thursday Nights

Oysters & Bubbles Oysters $2 & Oyster Rockefeller $3 Bubbles $5

Saturday & Sunday Brunch 10am-2:30pm

720.769.3427 | ollieparks.com 1210 E 17th Ave, Denver, Colorado 80218

The Art of Enduring Style re-findspaces.com

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Builder - www.tightlines.construction | Photographer - sydfullerphoto.com

ROOTED in

COLORADO THE EXPANDING WORLD AND EVER-EVOLVING JOURNEY OF COLORADO ARTIST TOPHER STRAUS

ARTICLE BY EDSON GRAYCAR PHOTOGRAPHY BY MEGAN REZNICEK

For Colorado native Topher Straus, the state isn’t just home, it’s the foundation of his creative identity. As his art expands across the region and beyond, he remains rooted in the landscapes, energy, and community that first inspired him. He attended middle and high school in Cherry Creek at Kent Denver, where his early exposure to education and philanthropy helped shape the thoughtful, improvisational approach he brings to his work today. Straus first gained recognition for his digital landscapes, vivid, abstracted scenes printed on aluminum through a dye-sublimation process that produces a sleek, glass-like finish. These pieces, often inspired by iconic natural landmarks, are bold, vibrant, and immediately recognizable. They’ve captured the attention of collectors across Colorado and played a major role in establishing his career internationally. Now represented in galleries from Vail to Winter Park and Telluride, Topher’s work continues to evolve. His creative process is driven by experimentation and instinct, often sparked by a recent hike, a passing conversation, or a moment of stillness in his studio. Straus currently has a permanent exhibition at the HYTHE Hotel in Vail. Topher frequently offers private studio tours for collectors, allowing them to get an up-close look at the materials, methods, and energy behind his work. Through it all, his art remains a reflection of motion, connection, and curiosity. Each piece captures not just a place, but a feeling, a way of seeing the world that’s at once grounded and full of imagination. Wherever his work travels next, one thing is clear: Colorado will always be at the center of Topher’s creative world. CONTINUED >

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WHERE IN

the world to

FIND TOPHER? COLORADO HIGHLIGHTS

Topher’s work is proudly displayed across his home state, from mountain galleries to unique local venues: Vail International Gallery (Vail) Fringe Gallery (Telluride) R.A. Modern Gallery (Crested Butte) Uptripping (Winter Park) Installations at: The Hythe Vail Hotel The Left Bank (Vail) Lumière Resort (Telluride) Sauvage Spectrum Wines (Palisade) The Golden Mill (Golden) Mikvah of East Denver (Denver)

BEYOND COLORADO

His reach also extends to national parks and major art hubs: Jenny Lake Visitor Center, Grand Teton National Park, WY Axiom Contemporary, Phoenix, AZ Meyer Gallery, Park City, UT Momentum Gallery, Asheville, NC bG Gallery, Santa Monica, CA KW Contemporary Art, Kennebunk, ME To learn more, visit TopherStraus.com.

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HIS CREATIVE PROCESS IS DRIVEN BY EXPERIMENTATION AND INSTINCT, OFTEN SPARKED BY A RECENT HIKE, A PASSING CONVERSATION, OR A MOMENT OF STILLNESS IN HIS STUDIO.

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Clean lines, purposeful spaces—sophistication in every detail. Jackie Johnson design.com | jackie@jackiejohnsondesign.com |

V@jackiejohnsondesign

Around Town Sept

Through Oct 5th

6th DENVER BLUEGRASS CONVENTION

Gather around 2:00 pm for an afternoon of live bluegrass, community, and celebration of Appalachian tradition. This family-friendly event includes music competitions for youth and adult bands and soloists, storytelling, kids’ activities, and food, plus free admission for all. Bring a lawn chair and settle in for the afternoon at Grace United Methodist Church. For more information, go to DenverBluegrassConvention.org.

6th - 7th BRIGHT NIGHTS AT FOUR MILE

Wander through a glowing wonderland at Bright Nights, Denver’s original lantern festival. This after-dark experience runs Wednesday through Sunday evenings, lighting up the park with dazzling displays and immersive art from 7–11 p.m. For more information, visit FourMilePark.org.

3rd - 6th

FIREFLY HANDMADE FALL MARKET

Firefly Handmade returns to South Gaylord Street in Wash Park for its Fall Market, offering a weekend of local shopping, live music, and community vibes. The event is free to attend and family- and dogfriendly. For more information, visit FireflyHandmade.com.

open-flame paella at Kisbee on the Roof. This sunset series features tapas, sangria, cava, and DJ sets that channel the coastal energy of Spain, plus cabana options for a more private vibe. For more information, go to TheJacquard.com/Rooftop.

11th

CHERRY CREEK NORTH CONCERT SERIES: THE LONG RUN

The Cherry Creek North Concert Series continues with The Long Run, Colorado’s premier Eagles tribute band. Bring a chair, grab a drink, and enjoy a laid-back Thursday evening filled with classic hits starting at 6:30 p.m.

12th - 14th

10th Photo Credit: Lucy Beaugard Photography

SPIRIT OF JAPAN RETURNS TO SAKURA SQUARE

DENVER FOOD + WINE FESTIVAL

A favorite on the city’s culinary calendar, Denver Food + Wine Festival returns with four days of tastings, dinners, and events featuring top local chefs, mixologists, and winemakers. Don’t miss the Grand Tasting on Saturday for the main event. For more information, visit DenverFoodAndWine.com.

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Photo Credit: Courtesy of Jeff Fierberg

SUNSET & SAFFRON AT KISBEE ON THE ROOF

Celebrate golden hour with rooftop views, Spanish-inspired bites, and

Back for its second year, Spirit of Japan brings authentic Japanese food, spirits, and cultural experiences to the heart of downtown. Enjoy tastings, performances, and vendors celebrating Japan’s rich traditions and modern flavors. For more information, visit Spirit-JPN.com/Denver.

IT CKETS HERE

SEPTEMBER, 2025 | BOULDER, COLORADO

Kick Off: POOL PARTY & DESIGN SHOWCASE THUR Tropical cocktails, tasty plates, and a cannonball contest

5:00 PM– 8:30 PM

(yes, really!) set the tone for this mid-mod pool party at the Elks Lodge. Explore Reviving the Elks Club, a bold design showcase imagining the future of this local landmark. Enjoy food, music, and poolside vibes — and cast your vote for your favorite Elks Club Challenge submission. Open to the public — all are welcome! Mid-century attire encouraged!

& Conversations: 11 Cocktails HISTORIC REMODELING

THUR Shake, stir, and sip your way into the heart of thoughtful

6:00 PM– 8:30 PM

renovation. This spirited event will bring together designers, builders, and preservationists for an engaging discussion on what it really means to remodel with respect—balancing historic charm with modern comfort and functionality. Come with your questions! Light bites served. 21+ event. Open to the public — all are welcome!

on Film: SITTING STILL 16 Design Cold beer, chardonnay, and popcorn set the mood for a TUE

design-lover’s movie night. Sitting Still is a visually rich documentary exploring the life and legacy of renowned landscape architect Laurie Olin. Stick around after the film for a lively talkback on public space, urban design, and the human side of placemaking. All are welcome!

Wrap Party 26 2025 Celebrate a month of design with Boulder’s creative FRI

community! Set in the iconic Elks Lodge, this evening features craft cocktails, tasty bites, a silent auction, music, and dancing. The highlight? The Todd Reed Design Awards honoring the winners of the Elks Club Challenge. Come raise a glass to reat design and a bold future. All are welcome!

7:00 PM– 9:30 PM

7:00 PM– 11:00 PM

ARCHITECTURE + INTERIORS

GET YOUR TICKETS BEFORE THEY SELL OUT!

monthofmodern.com

225 STEELE STREET | CHERRY CREEK NORTH | LAWRENCECOVELL.COM 6397 • Bite Studios • Brandon Maxwell • Brunello Cucinelli • Caruso • Ciizens of Humanity • Common Projects Corridor • Drake’s • Dries Van Noten • Eleventy • Herno • High Sport • Hiroshi Kato • Incotex • James Perse • Khaite • Lisa Yang Luciano Barbera • Marco Pescarolo • Mason’s • Nili Lotan • NN07 • Plan C • RRL • The Row • The Woods • TWP • Ulla Johnson