Houston to Colorado: My Interior Design Philosophy, Evolved
When I founded Jamie House Design in Houston, Texas, the vision was clear: create beautiful, deeply personal interiors that feel like home for the people who live in them. Over the years, that vision has remained steady—rooted in authenticity, beauty, and a love for exploration—but with our move to Centennial, Colorado, something new has taken root: a deeper sense of place, purpose, and soulful connection.
From Shanghai to Houston to Berlin to Centennial: What 20 Years Taught Me About Where I Actually Want to Work
I started Jamie House Design designing homes in Wuxi and Shanghai. Then I built a practice in Houston with a focus on The Heights neighborhood. In 2017, I moved to Berlin and continued working with Houston clients remotely. In 2021, we moved to Centennial, Colorado. In 2022, I joined an architecture firm. By the end of 2024, I'd left to rebuild my independent practice.
After 20 years designing homes across three continents, I'm clear about what I want to build: a hyperlocal practice where I'm genuinely present for every project.
This is the story of how I got here.
Shanghai: Where It Started
Before I ever had Houston projects, I worked in China, designing American style subdivision homes in Wuxi and clubhouse amenity levels in high-rises in Shanghai, learning to navigate international vendors, understanding how design principles translate across cultures.
That experience taught me to source globally, work with fabricators across continents, and recognize that while good design is universal, context is everything. A home in Shanghai requires completely different thinking than a home in Houston, even if both families want beautiful, functional spaces.
It also taught me I wanted to work closer to home.
Houston: Building Something Real
When I started taking Houston projects, I focused deliberately on The Heights, the historic neighborhood where I lived. 1920s bungalows with pier-and-beam foundations. Historic district restrictions that required fighting for many design decisions. But I’ve always been devoted to history and preservation so it was a joy.
I spent two years getting approvals for one renovation. I learned to read the neighborhood intimately; which homes were worth saving, which contractors could execute difficult work, how to navigate preservation requirements while modernizing for contemporary life.
That hyperlocal focus worked. I knew my territory. The business grew because I understood the specific challenges of Heights homes in a way someone driving in from across town never could.
Berlin: When Remote Work Taught Me What I Actually Value
When my husband and I decided to move to Berlin in 2017, I thought I'd build a practice there. German industry regulations made navigating that without German fluency nearly impossible, especially with a small child.
So I kept my Houston clients and worked their projects from 5,000 miles away.
My talented assistant managed installations and contractor meetings on the ground. I flew back several times a year for client presentations and project walkthroughs. We made it work; the projects turned out well, clients were happy, the business stayed afloat.
But I hated working that way.
Video calls can't replace being there when a contractor needs a real-time decision that will affect the entire project. You can't assess how afternoon light hits a newly opened kitchen over Zoom. You lose the crucial conversations that happen standing in someone's living room, understanding how they actually live, not just what they say they want.
Berlin gave me access to incredible European design markets, vendors I'd never encountered in the US, materials and fabricators that expanded my sourcing capabilities considerably. I visited showrooms across Germany and Scandinavia. I learned a tremendous amount.
But I missed being present for my work. The gap between doing good work remotely and doing great work on-site became undeniable.
From Berlin, I became much more selective about which projects I'd take on. If I was going to work this way, it needed to be worth the frustration of not being able to show up when it mattered.
Colorado: The Path to Independence
When we moved to Centennial in 2021, I took a position at an architecture firm. On paper it looked right; high-end mountain homes, sophisticated clients, a legitimate firm with an impressive portfolio.
The reality didn't match. The culture wasn't what I'd hoped. The projects were beautiful houses, but I wasn't solving the design problems that interest me; understanding how families actually live, balancing beauty with function, creating spaces that work for decades, not just for the photoshoot.
I left at the end of 2024 to rebuild my independent practice.
What I'm Building Now
After two decades of designing homes internationally, I'm doing something I've been circling for years: focusing exclusively on South Denver suburbs within 20 minutes of my Centennial home.
Not because I can't work farther, I've proven I can work from another continent if necessary. But because I've learned that being present for projects produces better design than being remotely excellent.
I want to know these neighborhoods the way I knew The Heights in Houston. I want to understand that Smoky Hill ranch homes from the 1980s have specific challenges; closed floor plans from a different era, builder-grade materials showing their age, layouts that don't reflect how people actually use kitchens now.
I'm learning which Centennial contractors consistently deliver quality and which ones need close management. I'm understanding how light works at 5,800 feet versus sea level, how to choose paint colors that won't wash out in Colorado's intense sunshine, which local vendors I can rely on.
I want to work with Castle Pines families whose custom homes have builder-grade interiors that don't reflect their actual taste. I want to help Littleton homeowners modernize Mid-Century Modern and Craftsman homes while respecting architectural character. I want to serve Highlands Ranch families who need spaces that balance beauty with the durability their active households require.
This is the work that interests me, solving real design problems for people who'll live with the results for decades.
What 20 Years Actually Taught Me
Global experience matters. Shanghai taught me to source anywhere, work with craftsmen across continents, understand how design evolves in different cultures. Berlin expanded my vendor network and material knowledge. Those capabilities are assets I bring to every project.
But presence matters more. Remote work taught me that transformative design requires being there for crucial decisions. You can't delegate the conversation that happens when you're standing in someone's kitchen, understanding how they actually cook, where the real bottlenecks are, what drives them crazy every morning.
Architectural training is non-negotiable. My minor in Architecture from Texas Tech matters more now than when I graduated. Being able to read construction drawings, understand structural systems, and coordinate effectively with contractors is what separates surface-level improvements from transformative renovations.
Independent practice serves clients better. I'm not tied to furniture showrooms or specific brands. I source from custom fabricators, trade-only vendors, vintage dealers, Colorado artisans; wherever I can find exactly what your project needs. Recommendations are based solely on what serves you best.
Clear focus beats constant growth. Early in my career, I took every project I could. From Berlin, I became more selective because logistics forced me to be. Now I'm choosing limits deliberately: South Denver suburbs only, 20 minutes from Centennial, 12 homes per year maximum.
I recognize that exceptional design requires presence.
How We Can Work Together
I work with clients at different stages of their design journey. Some need comprehensive project management; others want expert guidance while managing execution themselves.
Design Consultation — Two-hour in-home assessment with design direction, material guidance, and contractor recommendations. $500, credited toward full-service within 60 days. For homeowners who need professional insight but will manage their own project, or who want to understand what's actually involved before committing to larger scope.
Partial Design Services — Kitchen and bathroom design, space planning, material selections, furniture plans, design coaching. Professional design for specific project phases while you handle procurement and installation. For capable DIYers or those with budget constraints who want professional design direction.
Full-Service Design — Comprehensive project management from architectural planning through final installation. Custom millwork, contractor coordination, complete procurement, styling. This is how transformative design actually happens; when someone who understands both architecture and interiors manages every decision from concept through execution.
What Makes My Approach Different
After 20 years, here's what I bring to your project:
Architectural expertise. I read construction drawings, understand how buildings work structurally, and coordinate effectively with contractors. This isn't decorating, it's architectural problem-solving. When renovating older homes especially, you need someone who understands the building, not just the finishes.
International perspective, hyperlocal focus. Years designing homes in Shanghai and Berlin, sourcing from European vendors, attending international design markets, that global perspective matters. But I'm applying it exclusively to South Denver neighborhoods I'm learning intimately.
Independent practice. No sales quotas, no showroom affiliations, no pressure to specify particular brands. I source from custom fabricators, trade-only vendors, vintage dealers, wherever I can find exactly what your project needs.
Flexible service structure. Three service tiers accommodate different budgets and involvement levels. Many consultation clients convert to full-service once they understand what's actually involved. Others successfully manage their own projects with professional design direction.
For Centennial, Littleton, Castle Pines, and Highlands Ranch Homeowners
If you're considering renovation or furnishing your home, here's what you should know about working with me:
I'm building my Colorado portfolio deliberately, with clients who value the design process and understand that transformative results take time. I don't take every project, I work with people who want a designer genuinely present for their work, not just collecting fees from across town.
What I bring is 20 years of experience designing homes across three continents, architectural training that means I understand how buildings actually work, and a deliberate commitment to focusing exclusively on South Denver suburbs.
I've designed everything from Shanghai apartments to Houston historic bungalows to new construction mountain homes. Now I'm applying all of that experience to the neighborhoods within 20 minutes of my Centennial studio.
If that approach resonates with you, let's talk.
About Jamie House Design
With 20+ years of international design experience and a minor in Architecture from Texas Tech, Jamie House brings both creative vision and technical expertise to every project. Based in Centennial, she works exclusively within South Denver suburbs, bringing a global design perspective to the neighborhoods she calls home.
Related Articles:
Interior Designer Centennial CO — Why I focus on established homes in Smoky Hill, Walnut Hills, and Southglenn
How I Approach Ranch Kitchen Renovations — The specific challenges of 1970s-1990s ranch layouts
Littleton Historic Home Design — Preserving character while modernizing Victorian, Craftsman, and mid-century homes
What Interior Design Actually Costs in Denver — Real numbers for consultation, partial, and full-service projects
Jamie House Design in 2020 (Pre-Pandemic) | Berlin
Jamie House Design’s interior design work is quietly curated. It’s detailed. It’s thoughtful. It’s unpretentious and authentic. Every space and detail is designed for our clients and their lifestyle. Jamie House Design maintains intentional focus on detail and design quality in every space. We lean into the special details that make our designs unique. Our Denver studio curates a high-level mix.
(This post was written pre-pandemic. While our intention remains the same, our minds are with everyone experiencing hardship in this time.)
Jamie House Design has taken a massive step back at the end of 2019 to just rejuvenate. No interior design plans. No evaluating the year and no writing down goals. No back-end design firm work. I haven’t taken any time in the last say 8 years, maybe 10, to only reflect. Important design or business work has always been my priority, even on holidy. Yet I’m now finding myself drained, the creative pool is running dry.
It’s January 13 and I’m, for the first time this year, sitting down to a full day of designing. I am so excited to get to these interior space designs. I am refreshed and clear in my intentions for the designs and for the direction of Jamie House Design.
I am in Berlin still but my projects are all in the US, so I’m constantly plugged into the rhetoric around the new year and starting new and always needing to fix ourselves and it doesn’t feel aligned anymore. In considering that I realized that moving to Berlin was really us consciously deciding to walk away from the constant treadmill of DOING/ HUSTLING that is pushed in the States.
We’ve been in Europe for almost three years and I’m finally now relaxing into the concept that one doesn’t have to just keep constantly DOING.
I’m stepping away from the postering and step into real authenticity and connection.
Jamie House Design’s work is quiet. It’s detailed. It’s thoughtful. It’s unpretentious and authentic. Every space and detail is designed for you and your lifestyle. I’m keeping intentional focus on quality and intention in every space this year. Leaning into the special details that make our designs unique.
Our working time is going to be less and our play time is going to be more.
Our commitment to our amazing clients and the amazing projects scheduled for 2020 is deepened by being more purposeful with what we’re allowing into our space.
Our creativity is expanding and our project detail will expand with our off time being full of play.
I am very excited about our 2020 direction. It feels authentic to me. And refreshing in that we’ve always worked this way but this renewed intention has inspired me.
What’s planned for this space are discussions on our current services being offered, discussing specific elements of our projects, and what I’ve learned from working as an interior designer for the last 17 years.
We’re excited to connect more, show up more outside of working with our dear clients, and to bring more fun for fun’s sake to 2020.
Now based in Denver, Jamie House Design continues to offer expert interior design services for high-end remodels throughout the US and abroad. Whether you’re preserving a beloved home or updating a space to better suit your lifestyle, we bring thoughtful design, timeless materials, and unparalleled attention to detail.
If you’re considering an interior design project, let’s create something extraordinary together. Contact Jamie House Design today to discuss your project.
Mid-Century Modern Kitchen Remodel | Kitchen Design
This mid-century modern home in Littleton boasts a fantastic floor plan, natural flow, and striking architectural details—features that Jamie House Design thoughtfully enhanced. Without moving walls or altering the layout, we focused on maximizing its potential, preserving the original charm while elevating the design. This sprawling, rambling home has a dreamy quality—especially for me, imagining all this space from my little Berlin flat.
When I received a call from this wonderful family about their move from our beloved old neighborhood in Houston, The Heights, to a suburb, I wasn’t sure what to expect. Architectural details are a key element of great interior design, yet many suburban homes often lack character—at least in the neighborhoods I grew up in. But the moment I saw this mid-century modern gem in Littleton, I was smitten. A true diamond in the rough, this home had incredible potential. Nestled in a lush, spacious neighborhood filled with unique homes, it was anything but cookie-cutter. (And if your home is a cookie-cutter design, don’t worry—we can infuse it with personality and style! Just hit that inquire link.)
This mid-century modern home in Littleton boasts a fantastic floor plan, natural flow, and striking architectural details—features that Jamie House Design thoughtfully enhanced. Without moving walls or altering the layout, we focused on maximizing its potential, preserving the original charm while elevating the design. This sprawling, rambling home has a dreamy quality—especially for me, imagining all this space from Berlin. LOL.
I’ll start by sharing the "before" stage and walk you through the transformation, leading up to the final rug installation on Friday. WARNING: un-styled progress pictures ahead!
The original kitchen layout feels scrunched up into one end of the room. Presumably the space can be used for a breakfast space plus a possible storage console. Either way, our client did not want space for a table in the kitchen as the dining table is literally steps from the kitchen. Plus we all dream of a spacious open kitchen. Jamie House Design will always design your kitchen to maximize counter space, prioritize the best appliances for you, and create efficient storage.
Our client’s priority was to preserve as much of the original home as possible. Keeping that in mind, I still sketched out a completely reworked mid-century modern kitchen design to show the best possible layout. I always prioritize my clients' wishes while also offering expert recommendations based on how I envision them living in and using the space. In this case—like in most projects—the client agreed with my vision, and we moved forward while keeping as many of the original cabinets as possible. (We kept those globe flush-mount light fixtures and reused them in other rooms in the house. They’re very high quality and currently on trend.)
That said, those closets had to go. They were a massive waste of space—one likely a pantry, the other a coat closet. Eliminating them allowed us to create a more open, functional flow. The island was also far too small; while we couldn’t make it deeper, we extended it for better usability.
Here are the plans:
The first thing to go in this mid-century modern kitchen remodel was the bulky pantry closets. The original island couldn't be extended because the pantry doors cut into the space, limiting functionality. While we initially considered swapping the ovens and refrigerator for better kitchen flow, keeping the appliances in their original locations allowed us to preserve more of the existing cabinetry—honoring the home’s original design while enhancing efficiency.
To improve both storage and entertaining, I added a secondary area with open shelving, perfect for a beverage and serving station. Since our clients love to host, this space is ideal for setting up drinks and appetizers while keeping guests out of the busy kitchen workspace.
Extending the island created a casual dining spot and a place for someone to sit and chat while another person cooks. Kitchen design should always account for how people naturally gather—because no matter how big a home is, everyone ends up in the kitchen!
The new custom pantry cabinets provide far more storage than the original pantry closet, plus we added electrical outlets for a hidden built-in coffee station—a must-have for streamlined functionality.
To open up the space, I removed all upper cabinets above the cooktop and designed a sleek, minimalist range hood. This creates a natural focal point in the kitchen and allows the space to breathe. Any time I can eliminate upper cabinets, I do—being intentional with kitchen storage creates a more open, inviting atmosphere.
Here’s the progress :
The transformation reveals so much beautiful space. At this point, the new flat-front cabinet doors are in place, the range wall features all-new cabinetry, Jamie House Design preserved the original cabinet boxes throughout the rest of the kitchen for a seamless blend of old and new.
On the other side, you can see the newly added beverage and serving center, designed for both style and functionality. One of my favorite design choices is opting for drawers over cabinets in kitchens. There’s nothing chic about crawling on your knees to dig through the back of a cabinet. Drawers are a must—they’re more efficient and accessible. I always design kitchen’s for ease of use, aiming to make meal prep and entertaining smoother for our clients. After all, your kitchen should make your life easier, whether you’re preparing daily meals or hosting dinner parties.
The new pantry set up functions 100% better than before while taking up less space. There’s room for storing large kitchen items and plenty of space for food. Jamie House Design designed the interior organization of the pantry to be extra functional and easy to maintain.
Adding only the simple custom range hood on the range wall highlights the spaciousness of the new kitchen design. Sure, we could have filled it with upper cabinets, but there was no need—there’s already plenty of storage. Making space for beauty is just as important as function.
Below the cooktop, you'll see cabinet doors instead of drawers, even though I usually prefer drawers. In this case, I matched the existing design elements—sometimes, there are exceptions to the rule. This is exactly why it's so important to hire an experienced interior designer for the process. Small design details make all of the difference.
I will always recommend that your refrigerator be built-in or at minimum LOOK built-in. One of the biggest regrets in kitchen design is designing a beautiful new kitchen but seeing the refrigerator simply sitting next to the cabinets as if no one planned for it at all. A built-in refrigerator keeps the space cohesive and polished, adding to the overall luxury and functionality of your kitchen.
The extra depth in the corner was always there. I honestly didn’t know how to make it better so I let it remain as a place to slide in small appliances. Adding a “garage door” would draw attention to it and I don’t want that. The counter material is also the backsplash so it wraps completely around and makes it feel spacious.
The island is finally in place! Due to space constraints, the island could only be 24” deep, which is the standard depth for lower cabinets in kitchens. This means the functional storage is limited to just one side of the island, which houses basic storage and the garbage receptacles. To keep the back of the island from looking too plain, I added a simple yet striking ribbing detail. It’s an easy treatment that delivers big visual impact. (Spoiler alert: the pendant light over the island mirrors the ribbing, and the home’s paneling throughout echoes the same motif, creating a cohesive design.)
Look at that thoughtfully designed pantry! Jamie House Design incorporates built-in organization to make it easy for you to keep your home maintained and functioning.
The green accent paint is finally in place! This is the stage where you can start to see Jamie House Design’s vision for this mid-century modern kitchen remodel truly coming to life.
With the warm tones of the Saltillo tile floors, the original wood stain was overwhelming. The green we chose is the perfect complement, but we knew that an all-green kitchen would be too much. By opting for white upper cabinets, we’ve created a space that feels open and bright—balancing color with light for a more inviting atmosphere.
When selecting paint colors for your own kitchen design, it’s essential to consider how they’ll look from other rooms in the house. Colors don’t have to match exactly, but they should coordinate. A thoughtfully chosen palette can create a seamless flow from room to room, tying your space together.
One piece of advice I always give my clients: Don’t paint the insides of your cabinets. Instead, leave them stained or lightly stained. Stained wood wears far better than paint, especially in high-use areas like the inside of kitchen cabinets. Yes, I’ve painted the inside of cabinets before and it turned out beautifully, but that was the exception—done with a special hard-wearing finish in a cool accent color and applied by a professional.
If you're inspired by this mid-century modern kitchen remodel and want to create a space that’s both functional and beautiful, message me today. Let’s discuss how Jamie House Design can help bring your kitchen vision to life!
Mid-Century Modern Renovation | Littleton CO
At Jamie House Design, we are excited to introduce a stunning mid-century modern full-home renovation project in Littleton, CO. This home, originally built in 1977, had remained largely untouched—preserving the character and architectural charm that make mid-century homes so special. Our goal? To modernize the space while maintaining its original integrity, creating a stylish, functional home for a client who values full-service interior design and timeless aesthetics.
At Jamie House Design, we are excited to introduce a stunning mid-century modern full-home renovation project in Littleton, CO. This home, originally built in 1977, had remained largely untouched—preserving the character and architectural charm that make mid-century homes so special. Our goal? To modernize the space while maintaining its original integrity, creating a stylish, functional home for a client who values full-service interior design and timeless aesthetics.
The pictures I’m sharing are before images with a smattering of in-progress shots.
Preserving Mid-Century Character While Modernizing
One of the most remarkable features of this home is its original architecture, including soaring ceilings and gorgeous saltillo tile flooring running throughout its 3,400 square feet. We knew immediately that these elements had to remain untouched to retain the home’s character. Instead, we focused on updating outdated finishes, reconfiguring inefficient layouts, and integrating modern conveniences—all while staying true to the mid-century modern aesthetic.
A new front door to fit the period of home, including new outdoor lighting and limewashed brick. In progress phone pic.
In progress : Kitchen beyond is nearing completion, the dining room built-ins remain the beautiful wood to compliment the dramatic ceiling, Jamie House Design added bone and brass hardware for a mid-century modern update. The dining table and chairs will be stunning with the Palecek chandelier.
Kitchen Transformation: Function Meets Design
The original kitchen layout underutilized space, with oversized pantries limiting functionality and a lack of ample workspace. Our renovation included:
Expanding the kitchen footprint for better flow and usability.
Installing custom cabinetry that enhances both storage and style.
Upgrading to modern appliances that complement the home’s sleek mid-century lines.
Retaining original flush-mount light fixtures, a subtle nod to the home’s past.
The result? A highly functional yet beautifully designed kitchen that feels both fresh and era-appropriate.
The simplified and expanding kitchen design by Jamie House Design is nearing completion featuring an expanding work space, a coffee bar, historic mid-century modern paint colors, and professional appliances.
Primary Suite: A Retreat Designed for Comfort
The primary bedroom offered generous space but lacked an intuitive furniture layout. To maximize functionality, we designed around the room’s existing windows, seamlessly incorporating them into the overall aesthetic. Key updates included:
Custom window treatments to enhance privacy while maintaining natural light.
A thoughtfully designed bed placement that balances symmetry and style.
A neutral, sophisticated color palette to replace outdated beige tones.
In all of the bathrooms Jamie House Design maintained the original vanity cabinets and counters. The counters are a great neutral poured material in pristine condition. The penny tiles with modern mirrors and plumbing provide a much needed modern update to the mid-century modern home.
Remodeled primary suite wet room features terrazzo and penny tiles in neutral shades highlighted by brass plumbing fixtures.
In the primary bathroom, we transformed a dated and inefficient space into a luxurious retreat by:
Updating all surfaces with modern yet timeless materials.
Redesigning the wet room to improve functionality and flow.
Retaining and refinishing original cabinetry to preserve mid-century charm.
Study & Living Spaces: Cohesive, Curated, and Timeless
The home’s study featured original wood flooring and a unique sloped ceiling. To maintain its charm while optimizing storage, we:
Expanded and painted the built-in bookshelves for a more cohesive look.
Updated lighting fixtures to remove outdated track lighting.
Kept the stained glass detail, embracing the home’s history while incorporating modern furnishings.
Throughout the home, we carefully selected designer furniture and accessories to complement the architecture and provide a truly curated, high-end finish. This is the essence of our full-service interior design approach—blending modern updates with timeless mid-century details to create a home that feels both luxurious and livable.
Jamie House Design used the existing shelving but expanded it to the ceiling to create an expansive feeling in the mid-century modern study that features a stunning wood ceiling. In progress shot.
Elevating Mid-Century Modern Homes in Littleton, CO
This project has been an exciting journey, and while the renovation is nearly complete, the final furniture installations will wrap up early next year. At Jamie House Design, we specialize in creating custom, high-end interiors that honor architectural history while bringing homes into the present. If you're considering a mid-century modern renovation in Littleton, CO, we would love to bring your vision to life.
Now based in Denver, Jamie House Design continues to offer expert interior design services for high-end remodels throughout the US and abroad. Whether you’re preserving a beloved home or updating a space to better suit your lifestyle, we bring thoughtful design, timeless materials, and unparalleled attention to detail.
If you’re considering an interior design project, let’s create something extraordinary together. Contact Jamie House Design today to discuss your project.