Rocky Mountain Retro Cottage

Rocky Mountain Retro redesign reflects the client: Lydia Bachman’s love for cooking, fresh herbs, entertaining friends, and her two pet dogs. Now newly retired, Lydia wanted a kitchen that was not only functional but also warm, welcoming, and a reflection of her personality. The primary goal was to create a space where she could cook, relax, and entertain with ease.

Blending retro elements from the 1970s with modern touches, the design balances nostalgia and contemporary functionality. Durable, pet-friendly materials were chosen to ensure long term use, especially with Lydia’s dogs in mind. A major design challenge was maintaining the retro charm while integrating modern, sustainable materials and solutions.

The open layout includes ample seating around the kitchen island, inviting social interaction while maintaining efficient workflow. Honey-toned cabinetry adds warmth, while sunset orange and green pattern details in the backsplash echo Lydia’s love of vintage design and Colorado’s natural landscape. Jade green quartz countertops offer durability and visual impact, while terracotta floor tiles add a cozy, grounded feel that’s also ideal for pets.

A unique feature is the hanging herb garden mounted near a sunny window, allowing Lydia to grow and use fresh herbs year-round, a nod to her sustainable lifestyle. Dimmable recessed LED lighting and a statement pendant over the island provide both flexibility and charm.

This design successfully meets Lydia’s goals, offering a kitchen that is practical, comfortable, stylish, and deeply personal.