This Virgo’s Denver Rental Apartment Strays Away From Tradition

Name: Samantha Stine and orange tabby, Willow
Location: Denver, Colorado
Type of home: Apartment
Size: 900 square feet
Years lived in: 4 years, renting

Tell us a little (or a lot) about your home and the people who live there: The turn of the century was a bustling time for Platt Park, Denver, Colorado. This ‘urban-residential’ neighborhood now known for its charming main street, Sunday farmer’s market, and mature trees has stamped itself as a desirable locale in the ever-growing metropolis of Denver. Erected alongside Victorian and Craftsman architecture stands a mixed-use building. After nearly a century, this building has been home to both businesses and individuals alike. The southwest corner, with beaming sunlight and mountain views, is my mid-century sanctuary.

Complete with original hardwoods, a mint washboard sink, French doors, arched thruways, a fireplace with built-ins (should I go on?), this was my history-major dream. An old soul, I knew this apartment was an opportunity to resurrect the type of home environment I had longed for; one crafted with stories, individuality, and knowing… something I spent many years searching for.

My home is an intentional curation of pieces that simply bring me happiness; some old, some new… always with that touch of vintage flair. I enjoy filling space and rearranging often. I blend colors, textures, and material to create a design that brings calm and safety to myself and others. And while there may be orange cat hair on everything, Willow is as much a character of the home as is the tall-boy in the corner.

I am definitely a challenger of the status quo and my home is certainly reflective of this. I reach far from traditional, in fact, I boycott it. It’s difficult to peg how my identity has specifically translated into particulars of my home, but it’s certainly a cultivation of my own imagination. A tidy (Virgo), colorful (queer), feminist (ladies, ladies, ladies!) are the highlights. Nods to these qualities are throughout!

Describe your home’s style in 5 words or less: Maximalist, Vintage, Textured, Earthy, Cozy

What is your favorite room and why? It’s a toss-up, but I love my bedroom. A long-time goal was to have all linen bedding and I’ve achieved this! From my bed, I can also see through the French doors to my living room, so I really have great views all around. I appreciate that my home has walls and rooms… goodbye, open concept!

What’s the last thing you bought (or found!) for your home? Victorian carved/pink velvet chair while thrifting!

Any advice for creating a home you love? I believe this to be true for both home design and navigating life… get back to basics. Just go with your heart and what makes you feel good. Home is so critically important to our wellness; cultivate a space you enjoy and are proud of.

This submission’s responses and photos were edited for length/size and clarity.
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