Brooke Stevens Interior Designer

Born and raised in Colorado, Brooke wanted to experience life on the east coast and started her higher education at University of New Hampshire, focused on Human Development and Family Studies. She went on to transfer to CSU and ultimately graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Family and Consumer Sciences. After her university experience, Brooke discovered her true passion lies in Interior Design, and earned her master’s certificate from Heritage School of Interior Design in Denver. As a newcomer to the interior design scene, Brooke has loved learning something new every day, and gaining practical knowledge and experience.

As a world class rock climber, Brooke spends her free time focused on extreme mountaineering in the beautiful Rocky Mountains. Just kidding... she’s outdoorsy in that she likes long walks on the beach with a margarita in hand. As a self-proclaimed “city girl” Brooke loves exploring the many eclectic neighborhoods and rooftop patios that Denver has to offer, but has been known to be persuaded to go white-water rafting and zip-lining through the woods as long as she can spend more time with friends and family.

Tricia Guy Business Development Specialist & Senior Designer

 

As the youngest of four girls, Tricia quickly became her father’s resident assistant on all home projects.  Inspired by the endless creative capabilities in each project, Tricia knew design and construction was where she wanted to dedicate her career.  After graduating with her bachelor’s degree in Interior Design from The Illinois Institute of Art, Tricia has gained experience from a wide range within the design field:  from high-end residential to commercial interiors.  Working within the Senior Living design market established an instant connection with Tricia and has since been her focus for the past 10 years. Tricia’s positive outlook, passion for architectural design, and dedication to collaboration has created lasting relationships with industry partners looking to design and experience a unique blend of hospitality driven design with an emphasis of resident comfort.

 

Since relocating to Denver in 2018 from Wisconsin, Tricia enjoys experiencing everything Colorado has to offer.  When she’s not in the mountains enjoying a hike with her significant other Eric and their fur-son Renzo, you can find her teaching her other passion, Pilates, to friends and family alike.

Paisley Director of Human Resources

 

As Director of Human Resources, Paisley’s number one priority is boosting team moral. Equipped with a feel-good attitude and playful spirit, Paisley’s lighthearted approach to the office environment brings a sense of joy and comfort to both co-workers and clients alike.

When not in the office, Paisley can be found exploring the many trails and streams Steamboat has to offer, along with her best Hiking Buddies- Aneka and Brian. Dubbed “The Furricane” by her mom Aneka, Paisley brings a little spark of sunshine to whatever room she bounces in to.

Designing for the Millennial Home Buyer

Designing for the Millennial Home Buyer

“I Want it all, and I Want it Delivered”

Designing for the Millennial Home Buyer

It’s an exciting time for the Denver real-estate scene, with lots of new developments popping up overnight. But with all the new residential projects being developed, we keep running into the question “What do millennial home buyers expect for their first home?”

Let me back up. Why are we so focused on designing homes for Millennials? What even is a Millennial?

The millennial cohort (sometimes also referred to as “Generation Y”) is made up of people born between the years 1980 and 1995. While some older age groups have considered the millennial generation “entitled” and “impulsive,” research described in an article from San Antonio Realty shares this generation is “characterized by self-confidence, technology, high levels of education, and social connection.”

But why does this matter?

“Millennials are now the largest generation in history, boasting approximately 90 million members.” According to the National Association of Realtors, millennials currently make up the largest share of home buyers. However, studies have shown that millennials are waiting longer to buy, with a thrifty mindset that expects a lot of “bang for their buck.”

Jill Waage, editorial director for home content and Better Homes and Gardens, characterizes the next generation of home buyers wanting “smart, stylish homes that enable them to connect with friends and family.” She goes on to say “… Women 35 and under see value in owning a home and their attitudes toward making space livable through smart technology and integrated design.” This type of technology integration in design is becoming crucial to appealing to this market. Things like being able to preheat an oven or unlock the front door from your smart phone, is considered the new norm in home convenience.

What are other important design features?

In a recent poll described online at New Home Source.com, three-quarters of millennials want a single-family home around 2,500 sq ft. featuring either three or four bedrooms with two and a half baths. Also design elements at the top of the list are:

  • Open floorplan/ concept
  • In home laundry
  • Well thought exterior lighting
  • Outdoor living spaces
  • Pet amenities
  • Quality materials

Home design is one of the top motivating factors for millennials purchasing new homes. They need to be functional spaces, that offer quality materials and technology integration as key design elements. Millennials place a lot of importance on affordability and convenience when it comes to buying their first home. If we can incorporate these features into new builds, and remodel projects, we’ll likely have an easier time designing spaces that inspire and delight the Millennial home buyer market.