There’s something about fall and winter that draws us home. It’s the season of cozy evenings, holiday gatherings, and fresh inspiration for the spaces where we spend the most time. In this 12th edition of West + Main Home Magazine, the Remodel + Restore issue, you’ll discover projects that breathe new life into familiar places while honoring the character that makes them special.
In these pages you’ll see projects that range from playful updates to bold overhauls: preserving mid-century charm, creating multi-purpose getaways, designing cozy gathering spaces, and rethinking everyday rooms in fresh and functional ways. Each one shows how remodeling and restoring is about more than updates; it’s about shaping spaces that truly fit our lives.
As the days grow shorter and we spend more time indoors, may this issue inspire you to see your own home in a new way. And if you’re dreaming about your next move, planning an investment, or simply curious what’s possible, know that we're here to help.
Let’s make it happen!
Stacie + Madie
P.42
A Look Inside the remodel + restore Issue
FROM RAMBLER TO ROOFTOP
A Pop-Top Adventure
A HOMESTEAD REMODEL
Making room for new beginnings
FROM SPEC TO SPECTACULAR
Jenn Harber’s Personal Retreat
A BACKYARD BUILT FOR FAMILY
A Remodel with Mojestic Landscape
A MID MOD TREASURE
Preserving the Soul of a 1958 Time Capsule
SCANDINAVIAN HAVEN
Where Hygge Meets High Style
SERENITY BELOW THE STAIRS
A Spa Retreat Right at Home
LIGHT, TILE, ACTION
A Kitchen + Fireplace Transformation
A COLORADO MIDCENTURY
Breathing New Life Into an Colorado Midcentury
SIGHT-UNSEEN TO STUNNING
A Designer’s Own Home Story
SLOWING DOWN IN CARLTON LANDING
The Story of Sunshine Cottage
HISTORY MEETS HOME
Emily & Michael’s DIY Journey
A COZY CORNER
A Kitchen Nook Transformation
P.44
AMBITION ON HIGH STREET
A First Flip to Remember
P.48
FROM CONDO TO CAREER
Aunika’s First Remodel
Scandinavian Haven
FEATURED
Breathing New Life Into an Colorado Midcentury
Sight-Unseen to Stunning
Issue Twelve
COVER IMAGE BY AJ Canaria ajcan.com
DESIGNED & PUBLISHED TWICE ANNUALLY BY West + Main Homes
When Matt Matheson set out to find a project home, he knew he wanted something big. With the help of West + Main agent Gabe Martin, he landed on a 1955 ranch in Golden that hadn’t been touched since the early ’70s. “I immediately knew I wanted to add a second floor with a primary bedroom and rooftop patio,” he says.
Demo day was a highlight, with Matt’s girlfriend and coworkers joining in on the fun. “When we were taking out interior walls, we found newspapers from the early ’60s stashed inside. Reading the old Beetle Bailey comic was entertaining,” he laughs. Finishing touches became another favorite memory—like creating a spa-inspired primary bath and letting his daughter choose emerald green and gold tile for her own.
The journey wasn’t without its challenges. Because the pop-top added more than 20% square footage, the city
considered it a major renovation, adding months to the permit process. “Navigating through this took patience and attention to detail,” Matt says. He also GC’d the project himself, tackling demo, framing, and electrical. “It was stressful at times, but so worthwhile to see my ideas come to life.”
Unexpected surprises cropped up too—like someone mysteriously dumping Pink Panther insulation at the end of his cul-de-sac one night. Matt put it to good use for extra soundproofing.
Key to the home’s transformation was working with trusted partners. Matt relied on Ru�fini Engineering for structural design and permit drawings. “They were incredibly e�ficient and helped me tremendously,” he explains. He also credits Corinne Willis at Versatile Design, noting, “She has an incredible instinct for space layout and finishes.”
Though he’s enjoyed the transformation, Matt already has new goals ahead. The next lucky owners will inherit not only a stylish new layout but also plenty of potential in the backyard and rustic garage. As Matt puts it, “It will be up to them to cast their own vision next.”
PHOTOGRAPHY
BY
MERNE JUDSON III
A Homestead
Remodel
When Alexandra and Jon learned they were expecting their first baby in April 2024, they knew it was time to move closer to family. “We have three sets of parents down south, so we started looking in Centennial and Greenwood Village,” they explain. Eventually, they set their sights on Homestead.
Finding the right home wasn’t easy. They had their hearts set on a Middleton model, and by late summer, their search felt like a race against the clock with a January due date. Then came a call from a friend: one had just hit the market. Even with multiple o�fers already in hand, West + Main agent Sarah Riggs helped them craft a competitive bid that won the deal. “We closed on a Friday and started demo the following Monday,” they recall.
Their vision was ambitious: a complete overhaul, from opening up walls and upgrading major systems to vaulting the loft above the garage. “Seeing the main floor open up was amazing—you could really see the vision come together,” they share. Another favorite moment? Transforming the once-cramped loft into a cozy family space with mountain views and a new fireplace. Exterior paint also gave the home a fresh, elegant look.
The journey wasn’t without hiccups. Their electrician went MIA, their painter became ill, and Habitat for Humanity accidentally
hauled away their brand-new plumbing fixtures. “Never a dull moment!” they laugh. Through it all, they credit their team: Edgar �uintero of �uincast Construction kept crews on site daily, designer Suzanne Priebe of Grace Ryan guided finishes and even lined up backup subcontractors, James Wertz of JTH Carpentry crafted custom beams and railings, and of course, Sarah Riggs navigated every twist and turn of the process. Jon also rolled up his sleeves, building reclaimed wood mantels, hanging window coverings, and tackling small electrical fixes to keep progress moving.
For others dreaming of a remodel, Jon’s advice is clear: be decisive on the big things, like layout and lighting, but don’t sweat the small stuff. “You can always repaint or swap out a fi xture later,” he notes. And above all, stay present during the process—being on site to make quick decisions kept their project on track.
The end result? A home that’s not only beautiful but perfectly timed. “The home is exactly what we wanted,” they say. For now, the focus is on enjoying life as parents and slowly layering in art and furnishings that tell their family’s story.
ALEXANDRA + JON
PHOTOGRAPHY BY TRAVIS WHIRLEY
JENN HARBER’S PERSONAL RETREAT
From Spec to Spectacular
A client of West + Main agent Kristen Mancherian, homeowner
Jenn Harber turned what began as a standard spec build into a vibrant, personality-packed retreat. “I wanted to transform it into a warm, inviting space that truly felt like home,” Jenn shared. “Cozy, comfortable areas for family gatherings, as well as quiet spots to unwind with a book.”
Her vision came alive through fearless use of color and pattern. ‘I began by creating a Pinterest board for each space, then selected the rugs and paint colors as a foundation. From there, I built out the rest of the design, finishing with carefully chosen art pieces,’ she explained. The result: a playful yet polished home filled with texture and personality.
Some favorite spaces include the upstairs landing, now a cheerful reading nook with bookshelves, bright colors, and a comfy chair. The living room boasts a custom fireplace and stylish ottoman.
“The atmosphere feels warm and welcoming—exactly what I wanted,” Jenn said.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY MERNE JUDSON III
The process came together seamlessly with the help of her contractor, Roberto Chavira of RC Construction, whose expertise and attention to detail ensured everything matched her vision. She also discovered a local gem in Rogala Designs, a favorite new source for inspiration, custom furniture, artwork, and unique accessories. “Amy Rogala’s store has quickly become one of my go-to spots,” she shared.
Along the way, Jenn also discovered a personal passion for design. “While working on my home, I realized how much I love the process. Now I want to help others create spaces that inspire them, too.”
The transformation has completely reshaped her everyday life. “I find myself hosting more gatherings, and even day-to-day routines feel more enjoyable. It’s more than just a beautiful space—it’s a home that finally fits who I am.”
A Backyard Built for Family
BRIAN + JULIE SCHNELL
For Brian and Julie Schnell, family time is everything. With three daughters, their spouses, and grandkids all nearby, their Bloomington home has always been the gathering place. During the Covid shutdown, evenings spent in the backyard sparked an idea: transform the space into a true family retreat.
“Our goal was to create a place where our family could easily gather to relax, reconnect, and enjoy ourselves,” Julie said.
They partnered with Mojestic Landscape, owned by Jeremy Modzelewski and his wife, Moriah Modzelewski, a Realtor with West + Main Homes. With a plan by
landscape designer Troy Bermel, the wish list came to life: hot tub, fire pit, outdoor kitchen, TV zone, sun deck, and a green lawn for games with the grandkids.
Jeremy explained, “We wanted the feeling of outdoor rooms, making sure there was no wasted space and that everything was interconnected.”
Challenges included burying utilities and leveling the sloped yard with 25 yards of fill. But the work paid o�f. “Once the installation began, a superman emerged … Jeremy!” Julie laughed. “He cared about this project as much as we did and solved every detail like a massive puzzle.”
Now, the backyard flows seamlessly from one space to the next. “Friends and family call it a resort,” Julie said. “It’s beautiful year-round. Even in the winter, the underground lighting makes it a wonderland.”
For Jeremy, the highlight was simple: “Seeing the homeowners’ happiness was the best feeling. They had wanted this change for years.”
Julie agrees: “Remodeling the backyard was one of the best things we’ve ever done for our home and our family.”
A Mid Mod Treasure in Broadmoor
When Cathy and Mark Franklin purchased their mid-century home in Colorado Springs’ Broadmoor neighborhood, they knew they were stepping into something special: a 1958 time capsule on 2.25 acres, with history built into every detail.
The property had a rocky path to preservation. First listed in 2023, it was marketed as a teardown, despite its mid-mod character. That’s when West + Main’s Anne-Kathrin Cao posted three reels about the house that went viral, racking up over 3.5 million views and thousands of comments. “People were obsessed with the original details, and so was I,” Anne recalls.
CATHY + MARK FRANKLIN
The home sold once, then returned to the market before Cathy and Mark Franklin purchased it in June 2024. For months afterward, Anne avoided driving by, convinced it might already have been torn down. Then came the surprise: a text from Cathy. The new owners had not only kept the house, they had seen Anne’s viral reels and wanted to honor its mid-century soul.
“Once we realized what a treasure we had, we knew we wanted to carefully renovate and preserve it,” Cathy says.
That began a collaboration with Anne, starting with custom curtains for the original pink kitchen in a Starlight pattern from 20th Century Cloth in England, and quickly expanding into broader design guidance. “Anne is unbelievably knowledgeable and stylish. She saves us from ourselves,” Cathy laughs.
The Franklins are embracing the quirky original features: a built-in NuTone food center, a Rittenhouse xylophone door chime that still plays Westminster Chimes, pastel bathrooms inspired by Mamie Eisenhower, and even a charcoal grill in the sunroom where they now watch deer and the occasional bear wander past. Not everything could be saved. The original KitchenAid dishwasher was beyond repair, but Mark ingeniously refashioned its vintage panel onto a new unit. He also restored a pair of 1950s Litecraft pendants into working tension pole lamps, a nod to the home’s history.
Lighting throughout the home remains largely original, from Majestic fixtures to a custom Lightolier chandelier in the bar, designed with pendants by British modernist Sylvia Reid. Each element adds to the layered authenticity.
For Cathy and Mark, the project is ongoing, but the goal is clear: to celebrate and preserve the house’s integrity. Though the walls hold decades of history, the Franklins see it as the beginning of their own story.
Scandinavian Haven
When West + Main agent Cyndi Jordan teamed up with lifelong friend and client Karen Meyer, this wasn’t just a remodel—it was a shared vision. “Karen wanted a space that felt like family and celebration, with a big Swedish smorgasbord at its heart,” Cyndi shares.
The result? 900 square feet of open kitchen and dining space, plus a 500-square-foot patio designed for connection and comfort. A beautiful sitting room flows into a formal dining space, then opens to the kitchen, where dual islands wrapped in tambour detailing invite conversation. While tambour itself isn’t uniquely Swedish, its clean lines and rhythmic texture fit naturally into Scandinavian design principles—bringing warmth, simplicity, and a crafted feel to the space.
Framing the dining area, airy custom built slat walls provide subtle definition without closing o�f sightlines. They add just enough structure to distinguish the spaces while maintaining the Scandinavian priority on light, openness, and flow.
A 48-inch professional sized oven anchors the kitchen for feasts, while natural light keeps everything bright and airy. Beyond the main kitchen, a casual dining nook with a round table opens to two sets of triple sliding doors, creating a seamless transition to the patio and outdoor entertaining areas.
This design brings the Scandinavian love for light and openness to life—perfect for morning co�fee, long lunches, and late-night conversation under the stars. A discreet wine and co�fee station adds convenience without disrupting the serene aesthetic, while thoughtful storage keeps everything e�fortlessly organized.
“I wanted my home to feel warm and effortless—a place where people linger over food and conversation,” Karen says. “Smorgasbord is about abundance and togetherness, and that’s exactly what this home delivers.”
From hygge-inspired interiors to a floor plan made for gathering, this home celebrates Scandinavian living at its best: simple, functional, and filled with soul.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY AJ CANARIA
For West + Main agent Lin Johnson and her husband Alex, their unfi nished basement was always full of possibility. “From the start, we pictured a wet room, a soaking tub, and a steam shower to complement the workout room next door,” Lin shared.
Serenity Below the Stairs
Their vision was clear: a wellness retreat tucked under their own roof. “We wanted something calm, spa-like, and peaceful—a place where we could relax, recharge, and escape without leaving home.”
Pulling it together wasn’t without challenges. A metal post had to be moved with the help of a structural engineer, and uneven concrete floors meant leveling work before anything else could begin.
The standout detail? The tile. “It was a splurge, but it completely set the tone for the calming, spa-like feel we wanted,” Lin shared.
Now, the space has become a favorite spot in the house. Alex uses the steam shower often, and Lin finally has a tub to soak in. “It feels so luxurious to have that kind of relaxation at home,” she said.
Their advice? “Get multiple bids and decide if time or money matters more to you. DIY can save, but it will take longer. For us, hiring a GC was the best choice.”
With the basement retreat complete, Lin already has her eye on the next projects—upgrading builder-grade finishes, refreshing the laundry room, and adding character to Alex’s o�fice. “I don’t think the projects will ever really end,” she laughed.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY MERNE JUDSON III
Light, Tile, Action
When West + Main agent Rob Verdery and his wife Clare bought their home, they knew a few updates were in their future. “It was just a matter of when, and at what cost,” Rob said.
The project centered on brightening the kitchen and modernizing the fireplace. “We thought for a moment about white cabinets, but decided to repurpose what we had,” Rob explained. They landed on a two-tone scheme—light grey uppers and charcoal lowers—paired with fresh hardware and new lighting. A diamondpatterned backsplash over the cooktop added a subtle mid-century flair, framed by a crisp white stacked tile.
The fireplace transformation was just as striking. The original stone was replaced with clean, modern tile that
now extends all the way to the ceiling. “We had considered plastering it smooth, but found a larger tile we loved at a much more reasonable cost,” Rob said.
There were a few hiccups, like running short on tile mid-project. “You learn that sometimes things don’t go according to plan and you just adjust.” But the process had light moments, too. Rob recalls his son’s wide-eyed reaction during demolition and the fun of debating design choices with Clare.
The results speak for themselves. “We are very pleased, especially when seeing pictures of how it was,” Rob said. The refreshed spaces now reflect the couple’s love for mid-century design and o�fer a brighter, more functional backdrop for everyday life.
ROB VERDERY
PHOTOGRAPHY
BY MERNE JUDSON III
Breathing New Life Into a Colorado Midcentury
When West + Main agent Julie Lunn and her husband Eric first spotted the Lakewood property on a wholesaler’s website, they knew they’d found something special. “We loved the location and the amazing front elevation with the decks—just very striking and unique,” Julie recalled. While other investors walked away from the project, the couple saw a gem waiting to be uncovered.
JULIE LUNN
PHOTOGRAPHY BY NICOLE MARCELLI WITH RAE SCOTT
One of the most meaningful moments came when the home’s original owner, June, visited the open house. “She was so gracious and said she knew it was time for the home to have a new look,” Julie said. “That’s ultimately what this is all about, giving these homes new life for another generation.”
Their vision was clear: honor the home’s original midcentury character while making it brighter, fresher, and more functional. “We wanted it to feel new but not generic, never trendy or cookie-cutter. Our goal was for the finishes to feel like they could have always been there,” Julie explained.
The remodel wasn’t without its challenges. Landscaping was the biggest hurdle, with failing retaining walls and a tricky handmade rock wall to contend with. “We knew it would be expensive, but safety, beauty, and structural integrity had to come first,” Julie said. With patience, investment, and thoughtful plantings, the outdoor space now blends seamlessly into the neighborhood.
Inside, the redesign balanced practicality with creativity. The updated primary bath layout was a “Eureka” moment, managing to fit a separate water closet, soaking tub, large shower, and double vanity all within the original footprint. Original features were celebrated, too. Julie especially loves that they kept the original fireplace brick and rounded tile hearth—details you couldn’t replicate today—while updating with dark slatted wood for a modern touch.
Thoughtful details run throughout the home, from medium-toned cabinetry with beveled edging reminiscent of vintage furniture to layered shades of green that add warmth and personality.
Julie and Eric credit their talented crew for bringing the vision to life, including longtime friend Jake Tonsager, Den Styling for staging, and Nicole with Rae Scott Photography for showcasing the finished project.
As for what’s next? Julie laughs and says, “Send us your diamonds in the rough! We’ll take great care of them and remodel with the utmost integrity.”
Sight-Unseen to Stunning
A Designer’s Own Home Story
When interior designer Kate Bendewald, owner of Kate Bendewald Interior Design, and her family decided to move back to Denver in April 2020, Covid expedited their plans. With the help of West + Main agent Doug Yetman, they bought their new home sight-unseen. “We were house hunting remotely, leaning on Doug to show us homes via FaceTime,” Kate recalls. “We relied on photos and Google Maps to get a feel for the neighborhood.” What sold them was the home’s connection to the High Line Canal and its easy access to parks, the pool, library, and a top-rated school.
Buying virtually was a leap of faith. “As an interior designer, I was very interested in how my furnishings were going to fit. I had Doug taking all kinds of measurements so I could get a true spatial sense of the home,” she says.
Once settled, the basement renovation quickly rose to the top. “It needed more work than we could tell in the photos, so we put in new flooring, egress windows, and divided the space to create a guest room and home o�fice,” Kate says. At the same time, outdoor living became a priority in the middle of the pandemic. They removed a row of dead bushes and replaced a narrow paver path with a herringbone brick patio strung with café lights and furnished with a convertible dining table—now a favorite gathering spot used nearly year-round.
BEFORE KATE BENDEWALD
The kitchen eventually became the biggest transformation. “I was already redesigning it before we ever stepped foot inside,”
Kate admits. Hardwood replaced sheet vinyl, trim was upgraded and painted darker, and the layout was reworked to add six feet of counter space. Relocating the massive fridge not only improved function but opened up backyard views. “We also upgraded to a true integrated refrigerator with cabinetry panels. In a small space this is important to keep the eye moving and helps it look bigger.”
Kate brings a trained eye to every project, but she admits that designing her own space was challenging. “I see millions of inspiration images every year and each one takes up a bit of real estate in my brain. I reworked the kitchen design until hammers were swinging,” she laughs.
One of her favorite details is the “dining room library,” builtins that showcase books, art, and collected objects while
discreetly hiding backpacks and shoes. Each piece tells a story, reflecting her family’s life and travels—an approach she also emphasizes with her clients. She also converted half the garage into her design studio, complete with salvaged French doors from a neighbor’s renovation.
The remodel has shaped how her family lives. “We use every room,” Kate says.
Her advice? “Work with a designer. If you’re investing hundreds of thousands of dollars, you need a real plan so you’re not cutting corners.” As for what’s next: “The exterior—new siding, windows, and landscaping. I’m building the cottage of my dreams over here.”
Slowing Down in Carlton Landing
THE STORY OF SUNSHINE COTTAGE
For Alexander and Malia Klebanov, stumbling upon Sunshine Cottage in Carlton Landing was serendipity. “Honestly, we weren’t really looking for another place when we first came to Carlton Landing. But the moment we visited, it felt di�ferent—like life slowed down in the very best way,” they shared. “When we found Sunshine Cottage, it just clicked.”
With its cheerful yellow doors, red brick, and just-right size for their family, the home felt like an instant fit—not only as a personal retreat but also as a welcoming vacation rental. “At this stage in life, we wanted a place to create memories, but also a reminder to slow down and enjoy the little things,” they explained. Their vision was simple: a warm, inviting cottage that felt both like home and a getaway. “It wasn’t about making it perfect, it was about making it warm, welcoming, and ready for memories,” they said.
The Klebanovs see the cottage as a bridge between life stages, with kids preparing to launch. “The cottage is our gathering place—a home base the kids will always feel drawn back to. Part of what makes Sunshine Cottage meaningful is its
craftsmanship. Built by local artisan Clay Chapman, “you can see the care and craftsmanship in every square inch, from the brick, stone, and woodwork to the thoughtful finishes,” they noted.
The Klebanovs are quick to credit those who helped bring their dream to life. “Jessica Snook, our Realtor, has been such a gift. She makes all of our dreams happen, guiding us through every step and taking care of us along the way,” they shared. They also partner with Aimun Nieto of LakeStay for stress-free management, keeping Sunshine Cottage welcoming for guests.
Looking ahead, the Klebanovs hope to deepen the traditions they’ve begun in Carlton Landing. “We hope Sunshine Cottage continues to be a place where our kids—and their friends—always feel welcome to return, no matter where life leads them. Ultimately, the next chapter is about connection—connecting with each other, with the Carlton Landing community, and with the guests who get to experience a little piece of the magic,” they said.
ALEXANDER + MALIA KLEBANOV
PHOTOGRAPHY BY SARAH STRUNK
History Meets Home
EMILY + MICHAEL’S DIY JOURNEY
When Emily and Michael Price learned their rental was being sold, they didn’t panic—they called their friend, West + Main agent Carla Salcedo. Within weeks, she helped them land a one-of-a-kind split-level in Lakewood, a mid-century home lovingly cared for by its original owner, Pat, for generations.
“It felt special to step into a home that carried so many memories and such rich history,” they recall. “For us, it was both humbling and exciting—we had a blank slate to work with while also inheriting a legacy to respect.”
Vision + First Projects
They began gradually: installing wide-plank LVP floors, painting the walls fresh white, and updating the lighting. From there, they shifted focus to layout and furniture, each layer helping the home feel more aligned with both its roots and their style.
DIY Highs + Lows
Much of the work was DIY. “Every step seemed to reveal something unexpected that needed to be addressed before moving forward,” they say. Michael rebuilt the staircase and subfloor—a meaningful upgrade knowing it would keep their daughter safe as she grew.
There were lighter moments too. “One night we planned homemade pizza, only to realize the oven wasn’t working,” they laugh.
Budget + Guidance
A set budget helped them prioritize urgent needs first. They also leaned on their friend and designer, Petra Rupp of Collected Interiors, for key guidance. “Her input on paint colors, tile, and design direction really supported the vision we had for the home,” they share.
Community + Connection
DIY quickly opened the door to connection. “Early on we were working late with just two spotlights when our neighbors, John and Diane, came by with extra lights,” they recall. “That gesture set the tone for the warmth of our cul-de-sac. Our neighbors have been incredibly welcoming, and living here has changed our daily lives for the better.”
Preserving Meaningful Details
Favorite features remain: the preserved bar area, the upstairs bath, and original mid-century details. “We want to honor and work with those, rather than change everything,” they explain.
What’s Next? Looking ahead, the Prices plan to renovate the primary bath with heated floors, then shift their attention outside to gardens and a refreshed patio perfect for hosting and relaxing.
“There were nights of exhaustion and laughter, moments of stress and triumph,” they reflect. “But all of it made this house truly feel like ours.”
A Cozy Corner Katie’s Kitchen Nook Transformation
For W+M’s Katie O’Connor, a design magazine devotee, the dining area in her home never felt quite right. “I had a large, dark wood table that took up too much room and was too big for just my husband and me on a day-to-day basis,” she says. So instead of settling, she envisioned something more intentional: a cozy bistro-inspired nook.
The transformation started with a secondhand find: a $100 table from Brass Armadillo. Katie painted it with Annie Sloan Chalkpaint, distressed the edges for character, and paired it with a banquette bench that instantly made the space feel defined and inviting. A pine tongue-and-groove accent wall added warmth and texture, with the terracotta-inspired Glazed Pot hue from Behr giving the corner a cheerful pop. Lighting was another puzzle. Rewiring wasn’t an option, so Katie got creative.
“I started researching wireless wall sconces… which there are SO many of now,” she laughs. After a few failed choices, she landed on the perfect pair from Amazon.
Her favorite detail? That pine wall. “My husband gets so annoyed when I ask him to do these projects, but he always does such an amazing job. When I look at it I’m reminded of how much he loves me (and it looks cool),” she jokes.
Budget-friendly choices kept the project accessible. She sold old furniture, repurposed pieces she already owned, and patiently scrolled through Amazon for just-right finds. The final touches included meaningful art collected from travels and dog portraits, plus pillows with sentimental backstories.
The result is a space that feels stylish, intimate, and personal. Dinner lingers a little longer now, with guests gravitating toward the cozy bench seating. “It feels so much more cozy and intimate,” Katie says.
And while the nook is complete, Katie admits her project list is never-ending. Next up: a bathroom shower refresh, complete with new tile and fixtures.
ANNIE SLOAN CHALK PAINT
Shade // Old Violet
BEHR PAINT
Shade // Glazed Pot
BATTERY OPERATED
WALL SCONCE
Amazon
KATIE O'CONNOR
TONGUE + GROOVE CEDAR Home Depot
PHOTOGRAPHY BY MERNE JUDSON III
A R H O A F E E S C O V E R E D S T
3 U N I T S
3 U N I T S
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Ambition on High Street
A FIRST FLIP TO REMEMBER
KYLE MASON
When Kyle Mason, brother-in-law to West + Main agent Erin Kerns, left the corporate world, he knew he wanted to dive into home renovations and flips. Through his companies—MBF Homes (Make, Build, Fix) for flipping and MBF Home Pros for renovation and handyman work—he’s been steadily building a name for himself in Denver’s competitive market. His very first flip in East Wash Park was ambitious from the start.
“The High Street project was, admittedly, an overlyambitious project for my first flip,” Kyle says. “However, compared to the scale of projects I had grown accustomed to in my prior career, it seemed very manageable. And after analyzing literally hundreds of potential deals over the course of a couple months, this one stood out.”
The renovation took the house down to the studs. The quirky main floor was reimagined to include a spacious kitchen with a butler’s pantry, a powder room, and an o�fice with ensuite bath. Upstairs, new layouts created a true primary suite with a walk-in closet and spa-like bath.
The garage proved to be the biggest hurdle. A zoning amendment allowed for a two-car garage, but because it didn’t go into e�fect right away, Kyle had to wait months before submitting plans—pushing the project behind schedule. In the end, the delay paid o�f. Add in a clay sewer line replacement and even stolen AC condensers, and the project tested both budget and patience—but steady partners and a solid crew kept it on track.
Design decisions also brought plenty of satisfaction. “Nailing down the kitchen and upstairs layout was a great moment. I had a big wish list, and being able to make it all work without sacrificing aesthetics was huge,” Kyle shared. Collaborating with Edgar �uintero of �uincast Construction, Leslie Mezger of Flag & Co., and Addison Lecy-Siewert of RUSH
Design & Development gave the home its polished balance of historic charm and modern luxury.
Once finished, the project also sparked unexpected interest. After an open house, Kyle began getting
calls—not from buyers, but from people wanting help with fixer projects of their own. The experience was a lightbulb moment, showing him potential to expand his business into consulting. While not o�ficial yet, he sees demand: “There are a lot of people who see the value in buying a fixer-upper but don’t have the experience to take it on alone.”
CHECK OUT MORE OF KYLE’S RENOVATION + FLIP PROJECTS AT MBFHOMEPROS.COM
AUNIKA'S FIRST REMODEL
From Condo to Career
When West + Main agent Aunika Skogen bought her fi rst condo, she had a vision, even if she wasn’t sure how it would all come together. “It’s rather eclectic; I just pick things I like.”
With only one window for natural light, her goal was to keep the space bright and open, using white walls as a backdrop and layering in warmth with patterns, textures, and décor. A bright rug, a gallery wall, and her favorite eclectic finds brought the home to life.
The most impactful update was the fireplace makeover. “It was originally a boring beige with no mantle. Now, the patterned tile and dark blue paint really pop against the white walls. The fireplace took the living area from drab to fab.”
Remodeling became a family project. “My mom was a painter, so learning her techniques and working alongside her was fun. My dad is very handy and can fix just about anything. Being hands-on with him prepared me to be a self-reliant homeowner.”
On a tight budget, Aunika learned to prioritize. “It took longer, but it was worth it because not only did I save money, I was able to take full ownership and pride in how it turned out.” Meaningful details fill
the space, from her mom’s artwork to a steer skull she’s had since redoing her childhood room. One favorite surprise? Turning her closet into a walk-in with some simple rearranging and a barn door swap.
Now, the finished condo is her refuge. “After a long day on the road for showings or an adventure in the mountains, I love coming home and fully decompressing in a space that doesn’t stress me out.”
Most importantly, the project helped spark her career path. “I’ve always loved real estate; some of my favorite memories are touring the Parade of Homes and walking through new builds in Winter Park with my Grandma. This project ignited my passion for helping people navigate buying a home they’ll love. I know the excitement and emotions that come with it.”
From beige beginnings to bold personality, Aunika’s condo is more than just a remodel; it’s a reflection of her journey, her family ties, and the spark that led her into real estate.
Your End of Year Reset
As the year winds down, the cosmos is nudging you to pause, reset, and realign. Each sign has a unique path toward wrapping up loose ends and stepping into the new year with clarity, balance, and a little bit of sparkle.
ARIES - REFOCUS YOUR FIRE
You’ve been go-go-go all year, but now it’s time to channel that energy with intention. Reset by setting one bold but realistic goal for the new year — your fire burns brighter when it has direction.
TAURUS - SIMPLIFY + SAVOR
Your reset starts with clearing out the clutter, physically and mentally. Create cozy, grounding rituals (a good meal, a favorite blanket) that remind you how good simplicity can feel.
GEMINI - FIND STILLNESS IN CHAOS
You thrive in the whirlwind, but your end-of-year reset calls for slowing down. Journal, meditate, or take quiet walks—give your mind the reset it craves.
CANCER - NURTURE YOUR NEST
This season invites you to strengthen your home base. Whether that means redecorating, cooking for loved ones, or just curling up with tea, your reset is all about feeling safe and cared for.
LEO - SHINE WITH INTENTION
Your spotlight moment is always waiting, but this reset asks you to reflect on why you want to shine. Refine your passions, and set intentions that feel authentic, not performative.
VIRGO - ORGANIZE YOUR ENERGY
Your reset isn’t just about cleaning out drawers—it’s about tidying up your time, too. Prioritize what really matters, and let go of what drains you. E ciency equals peace.
SCORPIO - RELEASE + RENEW
Your reset comes through transformation. Let go of old grudges, patterns, or projects that no longer serve you. This is your chance to shed layers and step into the new year feeling lighter.
LIBRA - BALANCE FROM WITHIN
You give so much to others, but your end-of-year reset is about re-centering yourself. Lean into self-care, make choices that feel aligned, and remember that your peace sets the tone for everything else.
SAGITTARIUS - RESET + REFLECTION
Instead of seeking the next big thrill, your reset is about slowing down. Reflect on what this year taught you, get grounded in gratitude, and carry wisdom forward into new beginnings.
CAPRICORN - PAUSE THE CLIMB
You’re always climbing mountains, but your reset is about rest. Reflect on how far you’ve come before plotting your next summit. Gratitude is your secret fuel.
AQUARIUS - RECONNECT YOUR WHY
Your reset asks you to zoom out. Revisit your big-picture dreams and make sure your daily actions align with them. Innovation flows when your purpose feels clear.
PISCES - DREAM A NEW DREAM
Your imagination is your power, and your reset is about leaning into it. Create a vision board, write out your intentions, or simply let yourself daydream—you’re setting the stage for magic.
M A S H
mansion apartment shack house
Your favorite childhood game is back with a West + Main twist.
TO PLAY: DRAW A SPIRAL IN THE BOX AT RIGHT UNTIL YOUR FRIEND SAYS STOP. COUNT THE NUMBER OF SPIRALS. THIS IS YOUR MAGIC NUMBER! STARTING AT M, COUNT OUT YOUR FAVORITE NUMBER AND CROSS OUT THE OPTION YOU LAND ON. CONTINUE UNTIL YOU HAVE ONLY ONE OPTION LEFT IN EACH CATEGORY!
