A Slow Living Colorado Design Pro Shares Tips + Trends

With the opening of her “simple goods for slow living” boutique, Miller Lane Mercantile, five years ago, Calli Swofford tapped into a philosophy that’s been wholeheartedly embraced by the Denver design scene. Here, she shares her expert thoughts on this spring’s latest trends.

What’s catching people’s eyes lately? We have been noticing that our shoppers welcome more color and patterns into their homes. From vibrant art prints to bright pillows, blankets and decorative accents, we are taking notes from some of our favorite European designers—including Beata Heuman and Matilda Goad—and leaning into a more eclectic approach to decor.

What products do you recommend for the spring? One of our favorite ways to ring in a new season is with tabletop pieces. It’s such a light-lifting way to embrace change and bring a bit of newness into the home. Vintage-inspired floral patterns, colored taper candles, and detailed ceramic vases and planters are a few things we’re excited about for this spring. 

Tell us about some Colorado-made goods we’ll find in the shop. Fenway Clayworks has been a staple in our shop for years; owner Sean VanderVliet’s work seems to evolve with the times while also remaining classic to its core. We love his hand-built mugs, cups and trays, and offer an exclusive Miller Lane Mercantile colorway. And Amanda Colle of Paloma is such a talent when it comes to organically shaped, wabi-sabi pottery—the kind you reach for when you have your pick of everything in the cabinet. 

PHOTOS: BRANDON LOPEZ