Jacobson Residence

For this project, Elsy Studios transformed a rural home into a personalized retreat that merges the essence of Colorado’s Rockies with the tropical allure of Hawaii. The clients, a couple who split their time between these two contrasting locales, sought to infuse their new property with elements that reflected their lifestyle and future needs.

The home itself, designed by out-of-state Architects, offered a unique architectural canvas – a layout of merged octagons that presented both challenges and opportunities for the design team. Elsy conceptualized the space as a metaphorical hike from the sea to the Rocky Mountains, creating a cohesive narrative that unfolds throughout the home’s various rooms.

In the primary bathroom, we addressed the clients’ desire for a more functional and accessible space that would accommodate their aging-in-place goals. Our team reimagined the layout, removing a built-in Tuscan-style bathtub that impeded flow, and created dedicated areas for a steam shower, dual vanities and a freestanding tub, complete with a waterfall feature. Drawing inspiration from Hawaii’s lush landscapes, pebble tile and wavy textured surfaces were incorporated, complemented by dark green soapstone and Zebrawood accents mimicking a serene forest atmosphere.

Moving through the home, the bedroom serves as a transitional space between a lush jungle and the beach. Light grasscloth walls contrast with a tile-clad fireplace reminiscent of cooled lava, symbolizing the journey from seaside to mountainous terrain. As the climb to altitude starts, warm and cool tones blend in the dining room and library, featuring a statement light fixture evoking falling leaves and custom cabinetry that provides a cozy retreat.

The kitchen represents the ascent into the mountains, with woodsy colors grounding the space and a string of columbines – Colorado’s state flower – creating a focal point that harmonizes with the unique ceiling shape. Finally, the living room embodies the mountain peak, where blue-gray granite mimics snow drifts, and embossed panels echo high-altitude vegetation.

The project’s result is a home that not only meets the couple’s practical requirements but also takes them and their guests on a visual journey, creating a truly personal living experience.