As a Denver-based interior designer, I always enjoy working on projects that blend city energy with personal style. This two-bedroom condo with a den at The Coloradan, right next to Union Station, was a perfect example. The client envisioned a masculine, modern vibe using a neutral palette of black, white, and gray, with bold blue accents in the guest bedroom. The goal was to create a home that felt sleek and urban, but still comfortable and functional for a family of four.
To add depth and texture, I used wallpaper throughout the condo in unexpected ways. In the living room and kitchen, two different patterns from Thibault wrap around corners to connect the open spaces. A bold geometric design defines the kitchen and dining area, while a soft abstract adds movement to the main living space.
In the primary bedroom, we installed a mural of the Denver skyline. Because the bed had a tall upholstered headboard, I searched for an image where the tallest buildings would appear to the left and right so they wouldn’t be hidden.
In the guest bedroom, a graphic map of Denver became a unique focal point.
For the bathrooms, vinyl wallpapers from Phillip Jeffries add interest and handle the moisture better than paper wall coverings..
We added a new kitchen island with bold color and storage.
In the entryway, I transformed a small nook into a functional design feature by adding floating drawers, wallpaper, a mirror, and a cordless lamp to create a warm welcome.
Throughout the home, furnishings were selected for both form and function. Textured fabrics and patterned pillows kept the color palette from feeling flat. A dining table was added to the living area, and we tucked two ottomans with swivel tops under the console. These can be pulled out for extra seating at the table or used in the living space.
Luxury vinyl plank flooring was installed throughout the condo, adding warmth and durability. We updated the closets with custom systems from Closet Factory. The den now features mirrored black-framed doors that add a graphic detail and make the space feel larger.
In the primary bedroom’s walk-through closet, we added drawer and door fronts to keep everything tucked away.
Working within The Coloradan presented a few logistical challenges. All contractors needed to be licensed, insured, and follow strict building rules. Deliveries had to be scheduled in advance and coordinated with the freight elevator. We also had to make sure the new flooring met sound transfer requirements. In the primary bathroom, I originally planned for a large mirror with wall sconces mounted directly on top. After opening the wall, we discovered existing mechanicals that couldn’t be moved. That meant keeping the sconces where they were and adding wallpaper above the mirror to bring the design together. It was a last-minute pivot that required several site visits, but the end result looks polished and intentional.
One of my favorite creative moments was using two wallpapers in the kitchen and living areas that wrap around corners. This added interest without overwhelming the space, and it made the open-concept layout feel more intentional and defined.
Kristen shared this after the project wrapped:
"Working with Michelle was such a great experience. Her creativity, expertise, and eye for detail are truly second to none. The final result exceeded all of my expectations. The condo is absolutely stunning."
She also told me her son was so impressed after seeing it that he asked to stay there overnight before she even moved in. He especially loved the wallpaper and artwork near the dining table. That kind of reaction means the world to me.
If you live at The Coloradan, or anywhere in downtown Denver, and you’re ready to turn your condo into a space that feels like home, I’d love to help. Whether you’re remodeling or refreshing, great design can transform your everyday experience.
