The birds are singing, the cherry trees are popping with beautiful, pink blossoms, and the temps are ranging anywhere from the mid-50s to high-80s…it’s officially spring in SLC! The warm weather couldn’t have come soon enough, in our opinion, and after the doozy that was winter 2020, we’re spending as many hours a day out in the Vitamin D as we can. Looking to do a bit of the same? Here are a few of our favorite spots to dine out out…

Call ahead for hours—and to be sure they’re still serving outside—then take advantage of these nice temperatures! Who knows how long they’ll be around…

1. Arlo Restaurant: Though we’ve yet to have the pleasure of eating here ourselves, we’ve certainly heard our share of positive feedback about Arlo, which recently replaced what was Em’s/The Dayroom. And while we’re always game to listen to trusted sources where good food is involved, we can attest from our own past experience that the patio here lends itself idyllically to any meal. Mature grapevines line the trellis overhead and verdant foliage on all sides lends a bit of privacy from the street. Add just the right lighting (we’re suckers for string lights) and a few patio heaters, and you’re set for a good meal.

2. The Rose Establishment: It’s small and nondescript, and that’s precisely what we love about this out-of-the-way spot for sipping coffee. Great for summer mornings—it’s situated on the west side of the building, so it stays cool for some time. Plus, we’ve got a soft spot for establishments that take advantage of vintage tables and mismatched chairs. Always quiet and filthy with the kind of charm you want in a coffee shop patio. Good morning, indeed.

3. Eva: The patio on the east side of this downtown, small-plate spot makes us feel like we’re in a different city—one where space is limited, and the creative use of it culminates in coziness and urban charm. Yes, you’re closer to your neighbors than you might otherwise be, but glancing casually at what they ordered is far less awkward/obvious this way. Plus, we’re suckers for open air and romantic string lights, especially when paired with good pals and tasty share plates. Bon apetit!

4. Ruth’s Diner: If you’re up for a short drive through the early bits of Emigration Canyon, hit up the back patio of historic Ruth’s Diner for some fresh air, fam vibes, and (depending on the day/time) live music. Getting up one of our gorgeous canyons is always sure to lighten your mood—Ruth’s is one of very few places that offers up the opportunity to dine amongst the pines, so to speak.

5. Oasis Cafe: Ooohhh-asis. The patio here is unrivaled, quite frankly. Flanked on all four sides by the restaurant and adjoining Golden Braid book shop, you’re safe from traffic and passers-by. But you do have access to the healthy and delicious menu, a decent wine list, and loads of charm. There are hanging flowers from the “gazebo,” optional shade, and an actual outdoor fireplace for the chillier months (though it’s a tough table to snag…may want to call ahead).

6. Copper Common: Our go-to spot for people watching while we have a cocktail and fries, this patio has a few options we love. Grab a table in the shaded area or you can skrt! around the side for some casual privacy (or a smoke). Feeling more social? Post up street-side on the curved bar—you’ll be greeted, nodded at, or entertained by someone at some point, we promise. ’S a good way to get to know this city’s motley crew.

7. East Liberty Tap House: This is another favorite, thanks to a supremely social locale. 9th & 9th is officially a bustling neighborhood that’s ripe with local shops, good food, and plenty of people. ELTH has a patio for all seasons (think: shade for the sun and fire pits for the chill), and the beer/cider/wine list is blissfully on point. We’ve had successful business meetings and casual hangs, alike, out here. Grab yourself a bowl of elk chili (!) and a beer…you’ll likely be here a while.

8. Finca: What was once Trestle Tavern (and, before that, Fresco), is now officially home to Finca, and this patio is more than ripe for small plates and a good glass of wine. Ivy-lined and well-lit, Scott Evans and Co. made a conscious decision to keep all the charm of the previous restaurant when they updated. As a result, the outdoor space is the perfect accoutrement to your romantic dinner. It’s a partially covered courtyard that feels like it could be in the countryside…cheers!

9. Cafe Niche: One of SLC’s rare Central City dining spots, Niche’s patio is as tried and true as it is perfectly delightful to stumble across while cruising up 800 E. The outdoor space here is as perfect as they come for brunch: shaded by sun sails, surrounded by greenery, and perched people-watching distance away from a sidewalk that’s trafficked by all manner of pedalers and pedestrians. Grab yourself the Niche breakfast and post up for a long, lovely while. 

10. Current Fish & Oyster: It just feels like the perfect place for rosé and oysters, this patio. Completely covered, so the blazing sun is nary a problem, this former 1930s Ford dealership was beautifully restored, leaving a windowless skeleton of the original structure for the outdoor space (architecturally speaking, we love little else more than the preservation of our historic structures for the purpose of modern use, and this building is no exception). Get some natural white and order up those Kumamotos, already.

11. Trio: Classic patio, this one, and we love it. Trio’s outdoor space is roomy, casual, and has all the makings of summer. Bright yellow and white fabric panels lend a lemonade-in-the-shade kind of vibe, and a semi-circular planter box encloses the space with flowers and foliage. Plus, as it heats up, Trio is one of few places that will rev up the misters, so diners on or near the perimeter stay extra cool. Happy summer.

We’ve been adoring, COLLECTIVE fans of The Stockist since it opened (then called “Fresh”) more than 10 years ago, so it’s fitting that our cityhomeDESIGN team had a hand in the shop’s latest revamp. Our city has seen a lot of change since owner Helen Wade ventured into the land of small business in 2009, and 9th & 9th’s connecting coordinates have acted like a microcosm in that regard: it’s seen a lot of growth with plenty of new faces, but it’s also lost some very real near-and-dears (RIP Mazza).

“I honestly don’t think I would be where I am if I didn’t open up in the 9th & 9th neighborhood.”

Says Helen, “There is so much support and camaraderie between the local businesses…community support that I don’t think we would have received elsewhere.” The area is brimming with local shops, and in recent years, that local bent has seen an extended reach to the east and—in particular—to the west. It’s made Harvey Milk Blvd. a more walkable (and heavily visited) corridor, to say the least.

Along with the neighborhood itself, The Stockist has grown substantially in the last decade, but certainly not to the detriment of its loyal shoppers. Though the store has quadrupled in square footage, Helen’s found a way to fill the space without losing any familiarity or making the shop feel crowded. Much of the warmth inside can be attributed to Helen’s husband Mouse, who has built about 98% of the shop’s displays over the years. In creating the newer ones, our team ensured that materials were chosen that would work with previous displays. Says Brea Valenzuela, one of our lead designers on the project, “we wanted to introduce displays that allowed for customization in a fast-paced, ever-changing business.” For Helen’s part, she was just hoping to find a layout and design that would make sense, the hope being that she could make the space functional, shoppable, and welcoming without pretension.

“I needed professionals to come in and work some magic.”

Creating warmth in a space with this size, layout, and volume can be a tall order. Co-lead designer Rebecca Loosli notes, “We wanted to make it exciting to explore each new area of the shop while not feeling overwhelmed by the diverse and incredible selection throughout.”

Helen also decided to tap the talents of her friend/long-time customer Moey Nelson for some art installations that would help to enliven the space (and support local artists). To date, Nelson has created a few installations, including a neon display (shown) designed to reflect the nostalgic aspects of wintertime, as well as the current one, “Spring Jubilee,” which incorporates bright colors and a flower petal curtain above the register. Says Moey, “I love that the space is both utilitarian and editorial…it’s a fun mix of celebrating material itself and fashion silhouette, which is nice because my work is more inspired by fashion than any other form of art.” Rather than make specific requests for the rotating installations, Helen has simply approved what Moey pitches—“She’s an artist. I trust her, and I know that her brain works in a way mine never will.”

All told, the shop’s shift in design mirrors the overall growth and change of The Stockist. “It’s almost 12 years later,” says Helen, “and when we started, we had no idea what we were doing. Now it’s a concept space dedicated to providing quality goods for an everyday life. We focus on well-made items with an emphasis on small-batch slow fashion and independent designers.”

All told, we’re feeling pretty grateful that this brandisher of home goods, cool clothes, and last-minute gifts is still here to cure all any/all retail therapy woes.

 

There’s little right now that sounds as cozy as the interior of a cabin. Maybe it’s for little more than the sake of nostalgia or the idea of some quiet serenity, but we can all get behind the idea of hunkering down in some A-shaped or otherwise small, rustic structure to watching the snow fall around us, fire blazing, blankets piled high, hot bevergage of choice in hand.

Few are immune to the charms that accompany cabin life, even if it’s just for a weekend…

For just that reason, we decided to start our Cabin Fervor series. We sought to offer an occasional glimpse at the many chalets, shanties, and shacks out there, quietly dotting the sides of our mountains, often buried in few feet of snow, some creekside, and all usually privvy to kind of views that inspire poetry and novels. This time around, we decided to visit with our broker, Leigh Anne Bernal in her midway cabin. Purchased in 2019, she and her husband Jon embarked on a remodel that would ultimately open things up a touch and accomodate a bit more space for guests. They landed on something with incredible views, a distinct “home away from home” feel, and just the right amount of seclusion.


Talk to us about the search. Did it take a while to find this one? We had been looking for a cabin for our family for years. We’d actually made an offer on another one in this same area in 2017 but didn’t get it. Jon was so disappointed that we didn’t get that one…but when this one became available, I got a little more aggressive and we got it!

What made you decide to purchase this specific cabin? What was the draw? I walked in the front door and didn’t even look around…I walked straight out the back to the deck and knew this was it. The 270-degree views did it! We came to realize over the years of hunting for a cabin is that we didn’t want to be too far from home, and this one is just 45 minutes door-to-door. If we found something that was further away we just knew we wouldn’t be able to use it as much. We also learned that so many cabins are seasonal with either no, or limited access in winter. This particular one is on a paved road and we only run into access issues a few days of the year during deep-snow events. And even then, there is a parking lot at the bottom of the hill…so a little hike (at elevation it seems like a LONG hike) will get us there! And while having a cabin that is off the beaten path is nice, being within a reasonable distance to conveniences was important to us. Being able to pop into town to grab groceries or hit the liquor store is a huge bonus.

Favorite feature pre-remodel? Like, is there something you decided NOT to mess with in your renovations? YES! We absolutely love the wood stove that was in the cabin and so it had to be part of the end product. Even the large piece of limestone that it is sitting on was saved. There was also quite a debate about whether to paint the wood walls and ceilings. Ultimately, we decided not to, and we’re very happy to have embraced them in the design. Finally, the loft above the second floor! Our 5-year-old latched onto this space and any changes that were contemplated had to include the loft. So, despite advice to close that space off and fill it with insulation (what???), we instead let our son take it over. It has provided so much fun, imaginative play! The addition of some railing for safety and an old salvaged library ladder that can move out of the way made it a perfect spot!

What was entailed in your remodel? Was this a full overhaul or substantially smaller? We started thinking we would just fix the stairs (they were not the most inviting) and ended up doing quite a few design changes on top of that. We replaced the old laminate floors with solid hardwood, upgraded cabinetry and lighting. So, like all of my projects it started out with one thing and then lead to so many more!

Did you come in with a clear idea on what moves to make in your updates/changes? Or was that sort of dictated by discoveries you made along the way? We knew we wanted to make it ours but were not sure just how. With the arched A-frame walls it is a bit of a challenge working within those confines. Ultimately, we did make many more upgrades than we had planned. The five most expensive words in any renovation are “while you are at it…”

Favorite room in the house, post-remodel? Where are you spending the most time, and why? Hands down, in the warmer months, the deck is where we are most all the time. It is large and can accommodate a lot of friends and family for dinner or just hanging out. Watching the wild-life, the weather, and the sun rise from the deck is just the definition of “cabin life”. When it turns chilly we gather ’round the wood stove and watch the view from inside. The open floor plan is perfect for it. But one room that is pretty special is the living space on the second floor that sports the peak of the arched a-frame and the large antler chandelier. I love the way that room feels at night—both cozy and spacious.

What is it about a cabin? Nebulous question, yes…but what’s your take on why they’re just so damn appealing to people? I think it is a combination of things. Sometimes a change in venue can provide a fresh perspective, both literally and figuratively. It can help you get un-stuck if you are working on a project. It can give you the time and space to consider life from a different perspective. There are so many studies that validate both the physical and psychological benefits of being in nature. For our family, I hoped to provide a place to create and embrace traditions that we will happily remember for a lifetime. I also think we are more ourselves when we step out of our lives for a moment and get in touch with the parts of us that end up in the margins when we are overwhelmed with the business of our world. We bought this cabin in December of 2019—four months later our lives all changed in ways we did not see coming. With all of the uncertainty and anxiety that has been hanging over us lately, we feel so very fortunate to have this respite to escape to.

While our really unbearable temperatures are a bit slower to arrive this year, it’s still officially “damn cold” outside. We’re all a bit more eager to be outdoors these days (what, with last year’s indoor demands and all), and the emotional benefits of “getting out” are nigh-on innnumerable. Our good state has plenty to offer in the way of warm, natural waters (many of which are still a secret, and we hope it stays that way), and nothing quite hits on a chilly day like a well-chosen hot spring. We are in the midst of a pandemic, of course…you have to choose your visit times wisely (planning to go on a Saturday? So’s COVID). We always advise a very safe distance between other spring-goers and yourself (and a mask if necessary), but if you can responsibly soak in a little warmth and a little friendship in the proverbial great outdoors, then let’s get soaking wet!

MEADOW HOT SPRINGS

If a couple hours on the road followed by a dip in the most natural of settings sounds like a good time, consider Meadow Hot Springs. Just a few miles off I-15, the springs are located on private property, and while the owner allows free dips at all times, it’s donation-based and imperative that visitors adopt a “leave no trace” mentality (full disclosure: we can make no guarantees on the availability of these springs during a pandemic). Comprised of three pools, the temps here range from ~80º to just over 100º, and with depths up to 25 feet or more and crystal-clear waters, you might want to bring your snorkel. 

HOMESTEAD CRATER

One of our state’s many impressive natural phenomena, the crater is officially the only destination in the continental US for warm scuba diving. Formed over many thousands of years and tucked inside the 50+ foot walls of a volcano-shaped limestone deposit, Utah’s only geothermal springs hovers around 95º year round. Reservations are required for all forms of a soak (and you can read our story here about paddleboard yoga classes), so be sure to call ahead. Reservation info here.

maple grove hot springs

Newly revamped, Maple Grove Hot Springs in Preston, Idaho (our story here) is set up specifically to ensure that its natural lithium pools can be enjoyed with a degree of peace and privacy sure to put even the most overworked at ease. In total, their 45 acres include 4 soaking pools for guests, three of which offer temperatures between 100º and 107º. Reservations are required for a soak (or a stay in the yurts, cabins, or tents), so be sure to call ahead. Given that it’s only a two-and-a-half hour jaunt from SLC to these generously refreshed springs, we think it’s the perfect place to quite literally soak it all in. Click here for reservations.

MYSTIC HOT SPRINGS

Roughly 175 miles south of Salt Lake, Mystic Hot Springs is the ideal spot for a soak and a veritable Bohemian paradise (read our story here). You won’t find any high-end amenities, but you will find mineral deposits that have all but full enveloped the six vintage, claw-foot soaking tubs and unpolluted views of meteor showers from a 100º, mineral-enriched bath (but no sulfur here). For those who wish to stay overnight, Mystic offers a few rustic cabin options, a handful of defunct school-buses-turned-sleepers, and spots for RV and tent camping. Click here for reservations.

LAVA HOT SPRINGS

Located in Idaho just two hours north of SLC, Lava Hot Springs is a small town with all the expected charms and idiosyncracies. Visitors to Lava have plenty of options to soak, dip, or dunk: you can float the Portneuf River and head to the outdoor swimming complex in the warmer months, or you can set you rcoordinates for the hot mineral pools and never look back. The faciities are clean, and the temperatures range from 102º to 112º, so there’s a comforttable spot for everyone. A handful of shops, hotels, and restaurants dot Main Street too, so leave some time to walk around and explore a bit. More information here.

 

Having nearly finished navigating the chaotic waters of 2020 along with everyone else, I felt compelled to rest a bit easier for this final week of the year from hell. For these, our last stories, we decided not to bombard you with new news or fresh ideas or additional information. We’ve all been presented with quite enough this year. Instead, let’s just walk through a few lovely homes and revel in some of our warmer sentiments. From a COLLECTIVE perspective, we did what we could to have some fun, relax where possible, and (from time to time) take your minds off of the world at large. Whether it’s good music, modern design, or a kindly call to help however you can, below are a few of my favorite CHC stories from 2020 that I’m certain are worth a read (or even a re-read)…

Onward and upward!

1. “Why Support Local is Crucial for SLC“ This story feels so very important, and if you didn’t catch it the first time around, I highly suggest you give it a read. To be brief, our little economy is a big deal. We’ve already lost too many local restaurants and shops, and this story illustrates why we should all actively participate in the preservation of those that remain. Read it here.

2. “Home Movies | Watch List“ This isn’t simply a compilation of movies we thought you should watch during quarantine–it’s more deliberate than that. Every flick we’ve chosen here features a home or space that makes us swoon. Bonus: most of these are actually fantastic films (good for the houses…great for the soul). If you haven’t watched, now’s the time. See the list here.

3. “COLLECTIVE Casas | Kerri’s Storefront“ We’ve been meaning to kick off this series for years. This is where we invite you into our homes, and we decided to start with our photographer’s rad, modern storefront. As I used to live here too, it’s no surprise that I love this space…but have a look for yourself. Kerri runs a tight ship, and you’ll likely love it too. Story and photos here.

4. “QuaranTUNES“ We started creating Spotify playlists for you this year, and we’re going to stick with it. A lot of thought goes into these babies, and we’ll be getting songs/input from everyone here at the COLLECTIVE, so as to cover all musical tastes. Plus, we’ll throw in the occasional guest contributor. You can head straight to our Spotify account here, but I highly recommend you read the full story…that’s where we provide cute little synopses to give you the vibe of each playlist. Click here to see.

5. “March MODness” In the very first month of quarantine, we cooked up a super fun “game” to pass the time on our insta account. March MODness was our way of pitting all the most architecturally noteworthy homes against one another and letting you all vote for the top dog. Those who want to relive the tourney start to finish can find it all in our instagram hightlights…but you can also click here to read our wrap-up of the winners, losers, and upsets.

6. “Where We Stand“ We didn’t say much, but we had to say something. We stand firmly behind these words as a company, but we’re still trying to be better. Hopefully, everyone is. Systemic racism wasn’t just a 2020 issue, and it will require a LOT of ongoing effort on all our parts if we hope to address it. If you’ve forgotten, please reaquaint yourself. Click here to read.

7. “Welcome to SLC | Note to the Newbies“ Given our line of business, we’re well acquainted with the incoming folks. There are so many reasons to move to SLC (and stay), but we also realized that we had a few hopes for the newcomers–some tips and thoughts that might help us all to expand, preserve, and perservere as a city and state. Read the story here.

8. “Place of Worship | Silver Slice“ I love a good Place of Worship, and we had a few this year. But I’m pretty drawn to small spaces, and this geometric goodie by DesignBuildBLUFF is one of my favorites. Best part: DBB operates within native and rural communities, and the spaces they build are for families and people in need. Story and photos here.

9. “Gardening Tips | If you Say Sow“ First, I’d like to say I love puns, and this title pleases me. Moreover, I feel like we’re all finally paying attention to the many benefits that nature has in our lives, be it indoors or out. So we asked our junior editor’s mom (@ardentgardener) for some tips, and she came through. In her words, “Nature rules and gardening keeps you humble.” Hear, hear! Dig into the story.

10. “Save Utah Bars“ Truly. The privilege of sitting next to someone (a stranger, even) over a cold beer and a tequila shot sounds like a dream. Our bars are struggling and our state’s liquor laws have not made this pandemic easy on them. They’ve gotten as creative as they can, and we all need to do our share of the work. Drink up, donate, do what you can. Story here.


Staying inside is harder than it initially sounded.

That said, we’re equal to the task and eager to flatten the curve, so we’re going to keep our COLLECTIVE chins up and make the best of it. While we’re all cooped up, we thought some great online reading material might be worth sussing out a bit. Of course, you can always peruse our blog for endless good stuff about homes, architecture, local businesses, and interior design–but this is where we’ll also recommend a few good finds from around the web.

Every few days, we’ll point you to a few pieces of content that we think you just might like. Some of it will be helpful, some will be informative, and some will simply be aimed at making your days just a little better while we all do our part and STAY INSIDE. See below for the start to our ongoing list, and don’t forget to check back in frequently, as the good stuff will keep piling up!

On a typical July Sunday, in the dry heat of Salt Lake, I steered down a gravel lane that led to an unassuming home with a flat roof, lovely and light facade, and modest ability to blend into its own beautiful surroundings. My expectations were meager. I’d been invited to a pool party. I anticipated a pool and little else. Maybe a drink.

The home (and site of said pool party) was built in 1958, and not a damn thing’s been done since. There are no major renovations to speak of, and it stands as minimally and beautifully as it did upon completion. It’s likely one of the most intact and original examples of architect Steve MacDonald’s work as you’ll find today. The owner that resides here is the same that purchased it upon its completion, which speaks volumes to the original design and intent of the home. She has no intention of making changes—this incredible space has perfectly suited her life’s needs.

The structure itself is essentially a well-designed invitation.

Those who lived here had a sense that they were growing up indoors and outdoors at the same time. Each bedroom in the home has its own floor-to-ceiling glass door to the exterior. Summers were packed with pool parties, and toasty winters were experienced through the massive windows that flank both sides of the home. From nearly any spot on the property, you’re connected and invited to another. The position of the home on its property was clearly as well planned as any other detail: throughout winter months, the sun reaches into each wing for natural warmth, while the summer months see them shaded by the eaves.

The scale of the home is modest, and the main entrance is comfortable and informal. Simplicity is implied via myriad Japanese design elements and the use of natural materials, mostly rock and wood. Through the windows, you can glimpse a few perfect furnishings that dapple the cozy space, as well as the pool and backyard on the opposite side of the home. Typical of many mid-century modern homes, the kitchen is privately tucked away, but offers no less of a connection to the outdoors—massive windows above the sink look out to the tree-lined drive. As a visitor to the property, I mostly prowled the back yard’s pathways, zen garden, mature trees, and artist’s studio (used at the time as a gardener’s retreat). Once invited inside, however, my mind was blown by some of the home’s incredible and beautiful details.

From the pool, you enter the primary living space…

A sitting area is anchored opposite the dining room by a ceiling-mounted fireplace—with the sliding door open, the room places you somewhere between luxury living space and a campfire under the stars. In another perfect nod to the style of the era, much of the flow throughout the home is created in the repetition of materials and lines. Aggregate slabs around the pool are bordered by wood, and a quiet transition is made to concrete slabs of the same size once inside. Exterior beams seen on the front are mimicked in the living room and jutted over the patio space. The façade slabs with embedded rock are carried through the front door and into the sitting area, providing a back drop for artwork and a sturdy barrier between the gathering space and the living quarters.

One of the home’s most eye-catching and inviting attributes is in the hallway…well, it is the hallway. The builders and owners worked together to slice log-rounds and gather rocks from nearby creek beds that would be placed perfectly down the corridor of the home’s living quarters. The result is a subtle and strong piece that offers an interior/exterior balance, and further exemplifies the mid-century style. Children of the owners can recall learning precisely where to step on each round to avoid creaking on late night sneak-ins. Opposite the living-quarters area is a series of Shoji screens for needed privacy from the pool area. When open, there is clean access from the bedroom to the sauna and pool areas via a large deck.

Initially, I didn’t understand the importance of where I was swimming. We pool partiers lounged heavily, listened to the music, chatted, swam, ate, and drank. We be’d oh-so merry oh-so still. It wasn’t our house, but we felt welcome—we had a sense of belonging—which I know to be a direct result of the style and design of the home. Ultimately, my experience created a fascination and appreciation for a way of living that simply makes sense. The notion that a home can so adeptly support its owner, his or her lifestyle and needs, changed my own living choices and career path. I know now that newer is not better. Polished doesn’t mean fresher, and bigger is never better than well-proportioned. I prefer natural to fabricated.

and i’ll take lived-in over perfect on any god damn day of the week.

Date: July 12th – 14th, 2019
Time: Varies by title, official line-up here
Location: Rose Wagner Performing Arts Center (138 Broadway)

This year marks the 16th Annual for Damn These Heels, and it has officially become the longest-running (and dare we say, absolute best) LGBTQ film festival in the Mountain West. The incredible weekend of film and fabulousness (a program of the nonprofit Utah Film Center made possible by individuals/foundations/corporate supporters) is upon us once again with a lineup that’s sure to bring tears, encourage self-expression, and inspire support in all its forms.

More than 20 films and shorts over this Friday, Saturday, and Sunday…

Documentaries, shorts, and features will touch on everything from queer and intersex issues to familial dynamics, sex work, and trans identity. Included in the lot this year will be three classic films–chosen by DTH Guest Programmer, Jordan Blok–that are well worth a watch (synopsis for each below).

As ever, Damn These Heels has a slew of parties and programs set for the weekend, including an opening night soiree, cocktail receptions, and Community Reflection worshops with Giuliana Serena (of The Bee). Attendees can also purchase a festival pass, which comes with priority/VIP status, plenty of showings, and — in a new addition this year — the opportunity to donate and help make the festival more financially sustainable. It’s “the only festival in Utah devoted to showcasing LGBTQ stories in film that highlight LGBTQ culture, ideas, struggles, and triumphs.”

CLICK HERE FOR TICKETS AND FOR THE WEEKEND’S OFFICIAL FILM LINE-UP.

 

MA VIE EN ROSE (1997) – Showing Saturday, July 13th at 1:15pm
Ludovic is an innocent seven-year-old child who provokes horror in her community when she dresses in girls clothes and insists she’s a girl.

OLIVIA (1952) – Showing Sunday, July 14th at 9:00am
Long-forgotten tale of forbidden passion from 1952. Two head mistresses of a gothic all girls boarding school compete to win the hearts and affections of their students.

THE HANDMAIDEN (2016) – Showing Sunday, July 14th at 3:45pm
A handmaiden to a Japanese heiress is plotting to defraud her until their relationship becomes more complex.

 

 

We needn’t spell it out for you each time, but the truth is, we kind of like saying it: We think there are few sentiments that ring truer than “home is where the heart is.” Call it cliché, but the importance of where you live is second only to who you love, and both should be handled with the utmost care. Our partnership with RadioWest for the Habitat series enables us to have a small look inside the homes of those Salt Lakers who whole-heartedly agree with us and happily exist in a space that perfectly supports them.

Meet former RadioWest producer, Anne Milliken…

Like previous Habitat subjects, Ken Sanders and Bob Bliss, Anne has perfected the art of “home”. A native of Paris, she spotted her future abode sometime in the 90s and has since crafted a space that reflects her quirk, intellect, and upbringing in equal parts.

“It’s more fun to go to somebody’s house that’s a little unpredictable.”

Watch the video below to see Anne’s stunning and eclectic home (we’re particularly fond of her spitfire commentary and genuine desire to die in the bed she loves). As ever, stories like this motivate and inspire us to continue pairing people with place, and we’ve got no plans to stop anytime soon. Should you be in the market for something that suits you just flawlessly, call us up. We can help.

LET US [PERFECTLY MATCH, DRESS UP, POST, DOUBLE TAP, ADD TO, ENHANCE, FILM] CELEBRATE YOUR SPACE.

 

Patrick Schirf is a mild-mannered force of nature who quickly cozied up to our COLLECTIVE heart, big-spoon style. As one half of the Corigan Kushma team here at CHC, this magic and mild fella is set up for success and well-equipped to handle even the trickiest of real estate transactions, so I’m actually long overdue in helping you get to know his act.

As a former wildlife biologist, Patrick has perfected the calming energy necessary to defuse any tense situation (be it with wolves or clients), but his soft-spoken nature oft begets surprisingly hilarious anecdotes (see below for proof). He’s the proud owner of some of my all-time favorite floral print button-ups, and the man’s never one to shy away from a good cardigan. That said, I’ve also heard him make reference to both the Wu-Tang Clan and Phil Mickelson, so he remains a mystery in all the best ways. There are a few things I know to be true: he loves the Earth, his girlfriend Sophie, and their Italian greyhound, Monty. Patrick comes from “house” stock, which is to say, each of his parents has roots in contracting/development and real estate/interior design, so he’s definitely landed in the right place. In fact, the Schirf gang is firmly rooted and invested in the growth of Park City, and his uncle founded the goodness that is Wasatch Brewery (a respectful “thank you”, sir). Patrick is gravely concerned about the bees (same), and though he currently resides in his hometown of P.C., he journeys down the mountain a few times a week to set up camp at our office’s big, marble table. Truth be told, I cherish the moments I get to spend staring at the back of his majestic bun. Patrick is down for whatever, up for anything, and sort of akin to an artfully toasted Pizza Bagel—the perfect treat, anytime. Keep reading…it’s well worth your time.

Describe your perfect home or space. What does it look/feel like? The perfect space to me is the interface between inside and outside. A seamless transition from the natural world to a well-designed interior space. I love an open living room with clean simple lines, big open windows to expansive views, and elements of the natural world; from plants and water features to wood finishes and smooth stone. A space that reminds me what we are all connected to, but with a refined and welcoming design element added to the rawness of that wild connection.

One thing you absolutely cannot stand: Close-minded people
 
One thing you absolutely, unequivocally LOVE: Nature

You’re an agent here. Tell me why. What lead you to this work? I would say the original spark came from my parents. My dad was a contractor/developer/broker in Park City for 30+ years, so I was always around construction sites, and they were friends with lots of agents. My mom started a company called Mountain Land Design where she sold high-end appliances, fixtures, door hardware etc. So I was always flipping through her design catalogs as a kid and really fell in love with what good design can bring to a home. Even growing up in that environment I still didn’t really think real estate was right for me…until I discovered cityhomeCOLLECTIVE.
 
Give me your take on our little COLLECTIVE. It’s a pretty special place. I’ve never been a part of an environment that emphasizes the importance of being your authentic self in order to thrive. It elevates people to be their best selves, and as a result, allows you to serve your clients in the best way possible. It feels like you’re really making a difference in peoples lives. It’s very rewarding. I also love the brand we’ve created. From the design work, the mission of the company, the people, everything.



Describe your perfect day. What, exactly, does that look like for you? 
Wake up early. Make a nice breakfast (whatever I’m feeling in the moment), then get outside. The perfect day would be a hike or bike ride with people that make me laugh and feel happy. We head out on a bright, sunny day to a secluded place that ends at a flowing body of water. I love being next to a river. Maybe go for a swim, maybe just hang out on the banks and enjoy the company and the sun. Just being in that moment next to the river with the sun on my face and the people I care about making me smile would be the dream.

Favorite read/watch: Read–Ken Follet books (Pillars of the Earth, etc). Watch–Planet Earth (I and II). Pretty into Chefs Table, as well.



On my first day of college, I walked through the crowded part of campus without knowing that my backpack had slowly pulled my skirt up over my ass. It shaped me as a person, I think, in that it ruined my life. Tell me something humiliating about you. I had a fun little college experience, as well. I was in biology class sitting next to a group of super attractive girls. I was a bit tired from partying the night before and drifted off to sleep while in class. As I slipped into a nice relaxed state, my body decided it was the opportune time to let some wind out. I heard the sound release from my body and immediately snapped back to reality only to see the horrified looks on the row of girls sitting next to me. I then tried desperately to rub my feet across the linoleum floor to see if I could produce a similar sound and play if off, but the sound I needed never came. At least it didn’t smell, I guess.
 
You could be living anywhere, really. Why SLC? I was born and raised in Park City, and now live just outside of town, toward Kamas. I was gone for several years while I pursued a different career, but would always find my self coming back home. I never spent a ton of time in SLC as a kid…but since I last moved back, I have been spending a lot of time here, even outside of work. It has created a special energy that is exciting to be around. Not only is it so close to so many things to fill out someone’s life (nature, restaurants, shows etc)., but it has a buzz about it that makes you feel like you’re at the forefront of something amazing taking place. SLC is going places.

How do you think we can improve this fantastic little slice of our nation? Where are we lacking? I think the lack of public transportation is a huge issue. I think there is also a negative stigma behind using the existing public transit that needs to go away. SLC is a major commuter city and the air quality is becoming a bigger and bigger problem. It felt like there were some small steps being made in the last few years, but it kind of felt like putting a band-aid on a bullet hole. Now I’m afraid things are looking even worse. I know there are people living in this city that are trying to make changes, but we need to find ways to take more drastic measures to improve the air quality. I wish I had an answer. I’m a commuter myself, so I don’t have much room to talk. I wish I could find a solution and move away from our dependence on these major pollutants.