Issuu

Home & Design

Dear Readers,

Spring is just around the corner, and we couldn’t be more excited to bring you our March Home issue! Whether you’re restoring a 100-yearold historic gem in Castle Rock or designing a brand-new custom build with the latest Passive House concepts, there’s something for everyone in these pages.

Home is more than just four walls—it’s where we grow, create memories, and build our future. We’ve lived in everything from a 1,400-square-foot starter home to a dream house, and now, a multi-generational home. Each one has shaped our story in a unique way, just like yours does for you.

This issue is packed with inspiration, expert tips, and real-life stories from homeowners who have transformed their spaces into something truly special. Whether you’re looking for renovation ideas, energy-efficient upgrades, or the latest in home design, we’ve got you covered.

So grab a cup of coffee, settle in, and let’s dream big together.

Happy reading!

STEVE

HILL, PUBLISHER & DEBBIE HILL , PUBLICATION DIRECTOR @CASTLEROCKLIFESTYLE

March 2025

PUBLISHER

Steve Hill | steve.hill@citylifestyle.com

PUBLICATION DIRECTOR

Debbie Hill | debbie.hill@citylifestyle.com

SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR

Kristen Gonzales kristen.gonzales@kcrcopywriting.com

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER

Scott Hasson

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

COO Matthew Perry

CRO Jamie Pentz

CTO Ajay Krishnan

VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson

VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders

AD DESIGNER Evan Deuvall

LAYOUT DESIGNER Emily Lisenbee

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell

1: Sephora Opening at The Outlets at Castle Rock 2: Rave Clinics Ribbon Cutting Castle Pines 3: Nothing Bundt Cakes Castle Rock 2nd Anniversary! 4: Volunteers at Sunday Salmon 5: Sunday Salmon Ribbon Cutting 6-7: Rock of Hope Gala Benefitting Cancer Care in Castle Rock

CRYSTAL CLEANING

business monthly

Sunday Salmon

A new gourmet restaurant opened in Castle Rock aimed at uniting the community and serving cost-free meals to residents living at or below the poverty line. Owner Mary Grothe says “I would love to see our community come together for this worthy cause, and there are many ways that individuals, small businesses and corporations can contribute, in addition to volunteering. All of this information is available at www.SundaySalmon.com."

Tri Arts Project Gala

Experience an unforgettable evening of elegance and creativity at our exquisite venue, Cielo. Indulge in a sumptuous dinner, savor fine beers and wines at our open bar, and immerse yourself in an array of captivating activities. From prestigious silent auctions to exhilarating live auctions and the excitement of our exclusive paddle auction. Purchase tickets at triartsproject.org/gala

AUDITIONS: Vocal Arts of Castle Rock

Unifying and fun music! Celebrate the joy of song and improve your vocal skills, your range, stage presence, sheet music reading, tone, pitch, breath support, and engaging in the Art of vocal harmony with others in our community. Successful completion of Audition requires a separate registration and payment for "Vocal Arts of Castle Rock Choir: Summer Festival Series". Auditions are Wednesday, March 26th. Register at: https://recreation.crgov.com/Program/ GetProgramDetails?courseId=1908b083-5eef-46bf-9a87-ea64ead4a41f

the CITY LIST

We have such amazing, innovative business leaders in our community who are proud to serve you, our residents, with class and quality. We’ve compiled some of our top company picks for the services that might be on your mind this month in an effort to make your lives a little easier.

Real Estate Agency

Colorado Team Real Estate | Cameron McClellan, REALTOR | eXp Realty coloradoteam.com/ | 303.501.2810

NextHome Aspire - Inger Hiller https://www.nhaspireco.com/ | 720.839.0387

Nadine Kirk, RE/MAX Alliance nadinekirk.com/ | 303.941.4221

Joan Pratt, Joan Pratt Group, RE/MAX Professionals joanpratt.com | 720.506.3001

Steve Thayer, The Thayer Group, Keller Williams Action Realty thayergroup.com | 720.663.1224

Home Remodeler

RTP Construction rtpconstructionllc.com | 303.880.5362

Reither Construction reitherconstruction.com | 303.912.2364

Modern Structures modernstructures.com | 303.661.7272

Want to suggest a monthly pick?

Prestige Home Renovations renovationsbyprestige.com | 303.944.9638

Mission Basement Company missionbasements.com | 303.565.0557

Custom Container Planting

YOUTH& BEAUTY REDISCOVERED

OCULOFACIAL PLASTIC SURGERY

At Colorado Eye Consultants, we are proud to offer oculofacial plastic surgery by ASOPRS fellowship trained & board-certified ophthalmologist, Dr. Carl Rebhun. With years of advanced training and dedication to his patients, Dr. Rebhun combines the latest surgical innovations with artistic precision to achieve natural, rejuvenating results.

WHY CHOOSE DR. CARL REBHUN?

EXTENSIVE TRAINING:

ASOPRS fellowship trained and board-certified.

INNOVATIVE TECHNIQUES: Utilizes the latest and most innovative techniques.

EXCEPTIONAL CARE:

Personalized consultation to meet your goals.

DUAL EXPERTISE: Specializes in both cosmetic & medical procedures. Call (303) 730-0404 to schedule your consultation today!

Passive House

A New Standard of Home Building

People deserve to have a comfortable home where they’re not spending all of their money on utilities,” explains Lauren Shadid, owner and principal of Lauren Architecture + Interiors. As one of the few Passive House Certified Designers in Colorado, Lauren understands the importance of creating a building or home that makes people feel safe while lowering efficiency costs.

“One of the benefits of Passive House design is keeping outdoor pollutants such as pollution, pollens, and smoke out of the building. An added benefit beyond occupant health is that you’re just using less energy to heat and cool your home.”

Passive House design began in Germany in the early 90s to create resilient buildings for long-term living that are healthy, comfortable, energy-efficient, and environmentally friendly. And it’s not just for homes. The principles can apply to schools, churches, office buildings, and other commercial buildings. The hallmarks of passive house design include high-performance windows and doors, climate-appropriate insulation, reduced thermal-bridge design details, and continuous ventilation to ensure fresh air is cycled through the space. Combined with the tighter construction, these aspects

ARTICLE BY KRISTEN GONZALES

PHOTOGRAPHY BY SCOTT

HASSON PHOTOGRAPHY

reduce drafts, providing superior comfort and a healthier and safer environment for the occupants.

In addition to healthier living and energy efficiency, Passive Homes are replacing homes and businesses destroyed in the 2021 Marshall Fire. Lauren explains, “Many homes that are getting rebuilt after that Marshall fire are using the Passive House principle because there are fewer penetrations in the walls and roof, so you’re not setting up an environment that’s conducive to allowing embers into the house.” She says, “When you have crazy winds during a fire event like what recently occurred in California and previously in the Marshall fire, those embers can travel miles and miles, so even if the fire isn’t right next to your building, you could still be at risk.”

One of the ways embers enter a house is by being sucked into the attic via vents in the roof or under roof eaves. Once inside, they quickly spread, burning the house from the inside out and causing massive devastation. Since Passive House installs a state-of-the-art filtration system with controlled air intake, it’s harder for embers to enter the home, increasing fire resistance.

Regarding cost, Lauren explains that building a structure with Passive House principles doesn’t need to break the bank. Lauren says, “If you are detailing a Passive House designed building properly, it really doesn’t need to be much more expensive–maybe a couple of percentage points at most, depending on the specific project needs and scale. Often, it can be achieved with costs similar to those of a conventionally built, code

minimum building. Plus, many utilities and jurisdictions now offer rebates and financial incentives for buildings designed and certified as Passive Houses. This and the amount saved in operational energy costs really add up.” She explains that it’s about being more thoughtful throughout the design and construction process to ensure the home will be as healthy, comfortable, and energy-efficient as possible.

To Lauren’s delight, she has found that when she explains the Passive House concepts to contractors and tradespeople, they embrace it. “Honestly, I’ve heard from many contractors that once tradespeople start learning about this and start to implement it, they get so excited. They are often very proud that they are a part of the process of making a home or building so much better and more efficient.”

“We spend so much time in our homes, especially now that many are working from home. Ultimately, what’s more important than the health and well-being of you and your family?”

One of Lauren’s hopes for the future is to educate builders on Passive House so they understand it’s not unattainable or too expensive to choose this more thoughtful way of building. Once architects and builders start using the Passive House standard, they can see the superior building quality they are creating. Creating a home or building that saves the owners money in heating and cooling while providing a healthy environment and resilient structure is incredibly rewarding.

“Ultimately, I think this will make homeowners more satisfied with the product they’re getting and have confidence in it,” Lauren says. She adds, “Your home is a huge investment and one that you want to protect. The quality of the shell of a home built to the Passive House Standard greatly reduces the risk of mold inside the walls and roof.” Many nationwide states and cities see the benefits and have adopted Passive House standards into their code. It can also be a way to more easily comply with code and permit requirements. In Denver and Boulder, certified Passive House buildings are considered in compliance with the energy code.

Lauren’s passion for this architecture methodology shines through in helping people design safer homes. She states, “We spend so much time in our homes, especially now that many are working from home. Ultimately, what’s more important than the health and well-being of you and your family?”

March Garden Guide

GARDENING IN CASTLE ROCK AND CASTLE PINES

ARTICLE BY DEBBIE HILL

Do the winter blues make you feel like spring will never arrive? Are you daydreaming about sunshine and warmer weather? Well there is hope! Spring is right around the corner and sunny days are ahead. Now is the time to start thinking about what to do in your garden this March. March is the time to take out your pencils and paper to plan the garden you have been dreaming about. Here are some additional tips to have you ready to go when the temperature starts to rise.

• Sort collected seeds from last season and order new seeds

• Start cold tolerant vegetables in a cold frame

• If temperatures are consistently above 40 degrees, sow cold season vegetables directly in the ground (usually end of March)

• Remember to water trees and shrubs when temperatures are above 40 degrees

• Prune late flowering shrubs and dormant shade trees

• Refrain from pruning flowering shrubs such as lilac, forsythia and spirea

• Sharpen lawn mower blades

• In late March, if the ground is not frozen, aerate lawn

Debbie Hill

Gardening is more than a lifestyle to me, it is my passion. After 25 years in landscape design, I still spend every moment I can nurturing my garden, watching it grow and sharing in my harvest. Whether it is vegetables or flowers, I hope I will encourage everyone of you to get outside, enjoy the fresh air, and get your hands dirty. Let's grow together. Happy gardening! Debbie

COLORADO Team

Buying and Selling Homes Made Easier

ARTICLE BY KRISTEN GONZALES | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY COLORADO TEAM

Finding the right home or trying to sell a home can be stressful without a professional realtor to guide people through the process. That’s where Cameron McClellan and his Colorado Team of experts take the reins.

A realtor since 2011, Cameron’s professional demeanor and real estate savvy helped him win “Rookie of the Year” and “Top Producer in the Office” when he first began real estate in Arizona. After several years at one of the nation’s top realtors, he moved to Colorado and started the Colorado Team to advance his love for helping people find homes and commercial spaces.

“The majority of our business is repeat and referral business,” Cameron says, showcasing how his Colorado Team, which he established in 2015 with ten agents, provides muchneeded guidance and solace in home-buying.

While the Colorado Team’s office is based in downtown Castle Rock, they work throughout the surrounding areas, including Denver and Colorado Springs, buying and selling residential and commercial real estate. While they do it all, they focus primarily on residential homes and track trend changes.

“We’re seeing trends change right now,” Cameron explains. “For a long time, we’ve been in the very white kitchens and bathrooms, white on white, white cabinets, white countertops, white backsplashes, black poles. And that’s really making a switch. You’re seeing a lot of the golds come back, gold handles, gold faucets, more creamy colors, and browns coming back in style.”

Speaking of trend changes, one of the programs the Colorado Team offers is Fix and Flips. This program is excellent for families who inherit homes that need improvements or have homes that need plenty of maintenance before selling. The Colorado Team buys the property, fixes it, and sells it, taking the burden off the family. They also offer instant same-day cash offers for this program.

Cameron discusses the Fix and Flip program, saying, “Rather than have showings, people would rather just get it sold…and then [we] come in and remodel that home. So it’s a good opportunity for us to really make the neighborhoods nice.”

In addition to the Fix and Flips, Cameron’s team offers buyers same-day showings to help speed up the process and a VIP Home Buying Program.

CONTINUED >

While referencing the perks of the VIP Home Buying Program, Cameron says, “We have a VIP Home Buying Program, so they get a free appraisal, free home warranty, and then if they don’t love their home… within the first year, we’ll sell that house and help you go get something that you are actually going to be happy in.” All of this is at no additional cost to the buyer.

As with everything, Cameron has a favorite part of the process. “We’re always excited for people to get to the next step for them, whether that’s upgrading from a starter home into a new home or something a little bit bigger or upgrading into their dream home.” His passion for helping people through the process and expanding to helping repeat customers with commercial space shines through when he continues, “Being able to handle everything in their real estate journey is really what our passion is.”

“We’re always excited for people to get to the next step for them, whether that’s upgrading from a starter home into a new home or something a little bit bigger or upgrading into their dream home.”

COMMUNITY

INNOVATION MEETS

ARTISTRY

ARTICLE BY ALLISON SWAN

PHOTOGRAPHY BY NATE SHEETS

Kitchen design has entered a transformative era, where innovation meets artistry to create spaces that are not only functional but also personal and sustainable. With advancements in technology, materials and craftsmanship, today’s kitchens are tailored to meet the evolving needs and tastes of homeowners.

According to interior designer Laura McCroskey, kitchens today are about more than just cooking—they’re an expression of personal lifestyle.

“Kitchen design has entered an exciting time where the possibilities feel limitless,” says McCroskey. “For me, the design process starts before lines are ever drawn on a construction document. I believe in creating spaces that enhance life, both functionally

and aesthetically. The design process begins with a discussion about what a space needs to do, and what aesthetic will bring a spark to the homeowner. I also firmly believe that when designing a kitchen, one should walk out a recipe to make sure everything is in the right place to suit one’s lifestyle. Cooking zones are imperative to a well-designed kitchen.”

Modern kitchens emphasize zoning, or the creation of dedicated areas for preparation, cooking and storage, to enhance workflow and functionality. These zones not only improve efficiency but also contribute to a cohesive and visually appealing aesthetic.

Cutting-edge rendering software, utilizing technology similar to that used in gaming, allows homeowners to visualize their dream

“KITCHEN DESIGN HAS ENTERED AN EXCITING TIME WHERE THE POSSIBILITIES FEEL LIMITLESS.”

kitchens in hyper-realistic detail. While these tools inspire creativity, McCroskey advises balancing ambitious ideas with practical implementation to achieve the best results.

Technology, sustainability and customization are driving the revolution in kitchen design. Advanced appliances are at the forefront, enhancing convenience while aligning with a growing emphasis on eco-friendliness.

“From vacuum-sealing drawers that preserve food and reduce waste to smart appliances controlled by your phone, the emphasis is on efficiency and sustainability. Functional storage built seamlessly into marble countertops and oversized workstation sinks are making daily tasks easier and more enjoyable. Thoughtful features like composting compartments and advanced food preservation methods

reflect a broader effort to minimize waste and reduce environmental impact.”

Custom cabinetry that maximizes every inch of space minimizes waste while optimizing functionality.

“Forget the limits of traditional cabinetry. Blind corners, tiny nooks and hidden areas are now designed to maximize storage. Automated drawers and pop-up outlets are becoming increasingly common, marrying convenience with sleek aesthetics.”

Design trends have also evolved, becoming more flexible to reflect individual tastes.

“While white kitchens remain timeless and black adds drama, bleached woods continue to be popular. Style trends are no longer as rigid—whether you prefer modern, transitional, or traditional designs, you can create a kitchen tailored to your unique vision. There’s no limit to what you can achieve with today’s tools and technologies. The goal is to create spaces that resonate deeply with the people who live in them.”

The kitchen is the heart of every home and represents a space of endless possibility. Whether your aesthetic leans modern, farmhouse or somewhere in between, the tools and technologies available today make it easier than ever to bring your vision to life.

events

MARCH 1ST

Marc Cohn

PACE Center, 20000 Pikes Peak Avenue, Parker, CO 80138 | 7:30 PM

After winning a Grammy for his soulful ballad “Walking in Memphis,” Marc Cohn solidified his place as one of this generation’s most compelling singer-songwriters. Rooted in the rich ground of American rhythm and blues, soul and gospel, he weaves vivid, detailed, often drawn-from-life tales that evoke some of our most universal human feelings: love, hope, faith, joy and heartbreak.

MARCH 9TH

Knit Together - Parent Child Knitting Workshop

Douglas County Library Castle Rock - 100 S Wilcox, Event Hall A, Castle Rock, CO | 2:00 PM

Curious about knitting but not sure where to start? Join our beginner-friendly workshop to learn the basics in a supportive group setting! All materials are provided which you can take home to continue your project. While this class is open to adults, we also encourage parents or grandparents to bring children ages 9 and up for a shared learning experience.

MARCH 10TH

Bark for Books

Douglas County Library Castle Rock - 100 S Wilcox, Event Hall A, Castle Rock, CO | 3:30 PM

Kids ages 6-12 boost their literacy skills by reading aloud to trained therapy dogs. Sign up for one 15-minute session. Register at https://go.dcl.org/v/assets/938

MARCH 15TH

Run to Change Lives ShamROCK Stampede

Douglas County Events Center - 500 Events Center Dr, Castle Rock CO

ShamROCK Stampede’s mission is to elevate the celebration of St. Paddy’s Day with a family-friendly Walk/Run and Irish-themed festival to increase awareness and raise funds for organizations that help our veterans and first responders break free from PTSD and find mental wellness.

All proceeds benefit the It’s A Calling Foundation and Live Free Association. Register at https://runtochangelives.org/shamrockstampede/

MARCH 15TH

RiverRun Irish Band

Cherokee Ranch & Castle - 6113 N. Daniels Park Road, Sedalia, Colorado 80135 | 7:00 PM

Bring your friends on March 15th as we create The Castle Pub with RIVER RUN playing traditional Irish music.

These musicians have come together for a night of music and fun to celebrate St. Patrick's Day. The evening will include time to explore Cherokee Castle, plenty of pub fare, and a cash bar featuring Irish Coffee and Guinness.

MARCH 17TH - 21ST

Full and Half Day Spring Break Camps

Miller Activity Complex

Our Gold Medal camps are designed for youth ages 7-12. Athletes will participate in small and large group instruction, drills, games and/ or scrimmages. Sports include soccer, kickball, flag football, ultimate frisbee, and lacrosse. Camp will take place entirely at the Miller Activity Complex and athletes must be registered in advance. Register at https://www.crgov.com/2628/Camps-and-Clinics

The

Sapphire

Macanta

Castle Rock Realty Report

$5,300,000

$4,500,000

$5,850,000

$2,350,000

$2,250,000

$1,850,000

$1,520,000

$1,349,900

$1,400,000

$1,300,000

$1,290,600

$1,500,000

$1,198,990

$1,150,777

$1,137,600

$998,990

$999,500

$959,950

$970,000

$1,050,000

$939,900

$1,000,000

$999,990

$872,950

$925,000 ORIGINAL

$5,000,000

$4,000,000

$3,500,000

$2,150,222

$2,150,000

$1,850,000

$1,215,000

$1,200,000

$1,180,000

$1,147,500

$1,125,000

$1,115,000

$1,055,000

$1,037,900

$987,350

$965,000

$962,950

$960,150

$950,000

$935,000

$930,000

$900,000

$877,950

$875,000

CONTINUED

MARCH 17TH - 21ST

CampGriffen

UBERGRIPPEN Indoor Climbing Crag - 3690 Bilberry St, Castle Rock, CO 80109

In this camp, your adventurers will set out on a round the world adventure as they travel to the highest peaks on all 7 continents. Kids will learn about each summit, create art projects, and learn about culture from each mountains region! While on this world adventure, kids will practice a variety of climbing skills and techniques! 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM Register at https:// ugclimbing.com/castle-rock/camps/

APRIL 3RD

Just Between Friends Douglas County

Douglas County Fairgrounds - 500 Fairgrounds Rd, Castle Rock, CO 80104 | 9:00 AM

We know it can be expensive to buy everything your growing family needs. You shouldn't have to sacrifice quality or spend all your time at garage sales. We believe everyone deserves to feel good about providing for their family. That's why we created Just Between Friends —a one-stop shopping experience that happens twice a year at the Douglas County Fairgrounds.

APRIL 25TH