The Style Issue
Dear Readers,
September is always a favorite month for us—it’s when the air turns crisp, the light feels richer, and inspiration seems to be everywhere. This year, our Style Issue isn’t just about what you wear, but also where you live, relax, and entertain. Here in Castle Rock, style extends well beyond the closet and into the home, where modern sensibility meets the timeless warmth of Western tradition.
Walk into almost any home here and you’ll see the balance that makes our community’s aesthetic so unique—sleek lines paired with reclaimed wood, contemporary art hanging over a stone fireplace, bold leather alongside soft linen. It’s a style that honors the rugged beauty of the West while embracing the clean, functional elegance of modern design.
In this issue, we’ve highlighted local designers, artisans, and makers who know how to bring these worlds together. You’ll find stories on how to layer textures for that inviting-yet-refined feel, mix metals and woods for depth, and use statement pieces that reflect both personal history and current taste. Because here’s the truth: the most beautiful spaces aren’t about rules—they’re about you.
Creating a home is a deeply personal act. The furniture, colors, and objects you choose should be things you love, not just what’s trending. Maybe that’s a handwoven rug from a weekend trip to Santa Fe, or a glossy, sculptural coffee table you spotted in a Denver gallery. Maybe it’s a pair of vintage saddlebags displayed as art. The magic happens when these pieces live together in a way that feels authentic to you.
So we say—be unapologetic. Build a space that tells your story, not someone else’s. Blend styles. Break rules. Let your home be a reflection of where you’ve been, what you value, and what inspires you every day.
As you explore this issue, I hope you find ideas that excite you, challenge you, and maybe even give you the push to try something bold. After all, your home is the backdrop for your life—make it a place that makes you feel at home the moment you walk through the door.
Here’s to living beautifully, your way.
Warmly,
STEVE
HILL, PUBLISHER & DEBBIE HILL, CO-PUBLISHER
@CASTLEROCKLIFESTYLE
September 2025
PUBLISHER
Steve Hill | steve.hill@citylifestyle.com
CO-PUBLISHER
Debbie Hill | debbie.hill@citylifestyle.com
SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR
Kristen Gonzales
kristen.gonzales@kcrcopywriting.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Debbie Hill, Kristen Gonzales
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Castle Rock Headshots, VibrantMediaCo.com, Mediamax Inc; Photographer Patrick Golden, Reilly A Photography
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman
LAYOUT DESIGNER Emily Lisenbee
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell
each of our
Or maybe it’s someone you know. If this isn’t the right time for you, but you know someone who could be the perfect fit, we’d love an introduction
CASTLE ROCK
CASTLE ROCK
CASTLE
CASTLE
A ROUNDUP OF NEWS FROM LOCAL BUSINESSES
Meet Pet Care Club of Douglas County!
We’re the same friendly, reliable pet care team you’ve trusted since 2021— now with a fresh new name! From daily dog walks to drop-in visits and overnight stays, we treat your pets like family while keeping them comfortable in their own home. Our sitters are fully background-checked, and we’re bonded and insured. Serving Castle Rock, Parker, and Castle Pines, we’re here to make tails wag and give you peace of mind. petcareclubdc.com/
The Aspen Effect
The Aspen Effect has relocated to Happy Dog Ranch Horse Sanctuary located just 3.5 miles south of Sedalia. The Aspen Effect's program matches each youth with an adult mentor who will work along side him/her to develop a trusted friendship, have fun and reflect on how the experience they have together applies back to real life. The Aspen Effect is seeking donations to continue this important program serving Douglas County Youth. For more information visit TheAspenEffect.org
Elegant Encore and Dream Dinners Combine to Present Boutique Events
Elegant Encore and Dream Dinners Castle Rock proudly present boutique events in Castle Rock. Combining luxury tablescape styling with chef-prepared meals to create unforgettable gatherings. Whether it's a celebration, networking event, or private dinner, our collaboration brings elegance and flavor together in perfect harmony. Host your next event at Dream Dinners Castle Rock and experience curated decor, delicious dining and seamless service - all in one beautifully styled setting. Dream Dinners Castle Rock - michele@ castlerockmealprep.com (303)-841-4620 Elegant Encore - elegantencore@ yahoo.com (720) 926-0092
ECC KITCHEN & Bath
Styling Your Kitchen & Bath With The Latest Trends
ARTICLE BY KRISTEN GONZALES | PHOTOGRAPHY BY REILLY A PHOTOGRAPHY
The dynamic duo of ECC Kitchen & Bath in Elizabeth, Design Director Sarah Garofalo and Designer Amanda Pankonien, come to the table with almost 30 years of experience between them, and it shows in their quality work.
“Our niche is truly kitchen, baths, and basements,” Sarah explains. “What the clients get is essentially that Amanda and I go out to an initial complimentary consultation on site, and I put together an initial working budget. We have the clients come in here to the showroom, and basically, they get to see what we’re all about because there are no other showrooms like this in Elizabeth.”
Their space, settled just south of downtown Elizabeth, is filled with design options and kitchen and bathroom set-ups to showcase every option for redesigning. Once a client reaches the design phase, ECC streamlines the process, making it easy for clients to accept design features.
“We have an online platform called Design Files,” Sarah says. “And in that, we email all the correspondence over to the client, along with vision boards, so they’re able to approve, decline, and there’s even commentary buttons where if there’s a faucet they prefer to be rounded versus square, we can do all that remotely. If someone’s able to make quick decisions, literally, a kitchen can be done in two weeks.”
Going along with that, ECC offers 3D rendering to show a client their new design.
“I can take a space and make it 3D and put everything into the plan, like okay, you want this tile, we’ll put this tile in,” Amanda explains. “You can see everything that you’re about to get.”
Designing for all the surrounding areas, including Douglas, Elbert, Peyton, and Falcon counties, Sarah and Amanda watch trends and curveball clients towards and away from them depending on the space and what’s included.
“We are seeing a decline in gray,” Amanda notes. “We do have some clients that still like the gray, and we’ll curveball them a little bit and say maybe we add this tile that’s gray and brown. We don’t want to design something that was done in the prime of the gray era.”
“Today’s trends and what you’re finding are more natural materials like neutral, warm tones like white oaks,” Sarah comments. “Granite is coming back, or quartzite and quartz. Quartz is a man-made stone, and quartzite is a natural stone.” She goes on to mention how the natural materials are beautiful and each slightly different, giving space character and depth.
“LVP [Luxury Vinyl Plank] flooring is something that’s been really interesting,” Sarah mentions. “It’s up and coming.”
Amanda adds, “It’s taken over the market. No scratches, no watermarks, or anything like that. This will hold up to the test of time. And we can install it right over hardwood floors. So, if they decide to sell the home and the next person wants the hardwood floors, they can be removed. It’s a very durable product, and it’s an accessible, easy product.”
Another color that has come back in full force is green. While beautiful, it’s what is called trend-forward and should be approached with caution.
“Green is something that you truly have to love the color green,” Amanda warns. “If you are just wanting to do something different, that might not be the best thing because we’re going to tell you, this is just trend-forward.”
“Standing the test of time is really important and having a timeless end result,” Sarah adds. “That is all discussed in the design phase. So if someone really wants green cabinets, we say, ‘Can we give you these green cabinets in your bathroom?’ Because when you want to change your vanity, it’s way less expensive than a whole kitchen.”
As trends shift towards warmer colors like golds, browns, and greens, and grays fade, family dynamics are changing as well, prompting people to adapt their spaces.
“What you’re finding now is multi-generational living,” Sarah explains. “So you have a lot of husbands, wives, a couple of kids, and then grandma or grandpa is moving in to maybe help with the kids, or
“Today’s trends and what you’re finding are more natural materials like neutral, warm tones like white oaks. Granite is coming back, or quartzite and quartz. Quartz is a man-made stone, and quartzite is a natural stone.”
“As trends shift towards warmer colors like golds, browns, and greens, and grays fade, family dynamics are changing as well, prompting people to adapt their spaces.”
they’re getting old and the family’s taking care of them. So creating flow of the space has been really important.”
No matter what style a client decides on, having this pair of experts is a significant plus in a kitchen, bath, or basement renovation. With Amanda leaning more toward trend-forward styles and Sarah loving a mountain water and natural stone style, the duo complements each other to bring clients precisely what they are looking for and more.
“She’ll think of it one way, and I’m like, well, what about this? And what if we look at it this way?” Amanda says.
“With me being more architectural,” Sarah explains. “And she has more of a decorator’s eye, I don’t have that.”
“I see more of the hard surfaces that we’ve done, and I say, how do we take it to the next level?” Amanda says.
For kitchen and baths, taking it to the next level with ECC is a must!
SEPTEMBER Garden Guide
September arrives with a whisper of fall in the air. The trees begin their transformation, dressing in brilliant hues of crimson and gold. Cozy knits make their seasonal debut, and the scent of sweet apple treats drifts from kitchen windows. Warm days give way to crisp, cool nights—a gentle reminder that the seasons are shifting.
This is a time to step outside, breathe deeply, and immerse yourself in the quiet beauty of the place we call home.
Castle Rock typically sees its first frost around October 3rd, but that doesn’t mean your gardening days are over. With thoughtful planning, you can extend your growing season and enjoy your harvest well into the early frost.
LATE-SEASON: FALL GARDENING TIPS
As the season shifts, your garden can continue to thrive.
1. Stop Fertilizing
Let your plants gradually wind down and harden off.
2. Early September Planting
You can still sow cool-season crops like:
Autumn in Castle RockA Garden in Transition
ARTICLE BY DEBBIE HILL
• Swiss chard
• Spinach
• Kale
• Beets
• Radishes
These vegetables can be harvested before a hard frost.
3. Plant Spring-Flowering Bulbs
Wait until nighttime temperatures are 40–50°F. Think tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths.
4. Install Spring Perennials
Plant at least six weeks before the ground freezes.
5. Add Evergreen Trees
Introduce year-round structure and beauty to your garden.
6. Water Through Winter
Continue watering trees and shrubs during dry spells.
Garden Etiquette for Autumn
7. Save Seeds
Collect and label seeds from your favorite plants for next season.
8. Clean Up with Care
Remove dead vegetation to reduce disease.
9. Mulch Generously
Apply mulch to insulate plant roots and retain soil moisture.
10. Aerate & Deep Water Lawns
11. Apply Grub Control
Treat lawns to prevent root damage.
12. Support Local Wildlife
Place out suet feeders for overwintering birds.
With mindful care, your garden can continue to bring joy, beauty, and abundance—long after summer fades. Autumn is not the end; it’s an elegant pause before the next flourish.
Happy gardening.
Debbie and Nashville
Gardening is more than a lifestyle—it’s a passion cultivated over 25 years in landscape design. I cherish every moment spent nurturing the earth, watching beauty unfold, and sharing nature’s bounty. From vibrant blooms to fresh harvests, my hope is to inspire you to step outside, breathe deeply, and grow with intention. Let’s create something beautiful—together. Happy gardening.
Cabbage
Swiss Chard
The Curated Studio
ARTICLE BY KRISTEN GONZALES | PHOTOGRAPHY BY VIBRANT REAL ESTATE MEDIA & MEDIAMAX INC PHOTOGRAPHER PATRICK GOLDEN
Talking with the brilliant ensemble that is The Curated Studio, the sense of camaraderie is immediately evident. Realtors and partners, Dane Robinson and Trista Fischer-Boykin, opened their home staging business a year ago after doing it themselves for years. By pulling in lead designer Mandy Bradshaw and high school student interns like Kylie Kallsen, they built a staging empire that beautifies homes, leading to quicker turnarounds for sellers.
In the current buyer’s market, other agents are hiring The Curated Studio, hoping to keep homes from sitting for too long, and it’s working. According to the National Association of Realtors, 19% of sellers’ agents reported an increase of 1% to 5% in the dollar value offered by buyers for staged homes in comparison to similar homes.
“For Brightland Homes, they had two spec homes that had been listed for a little over a year. They hired us to come in and stage it, and we sold both within 30 days,” Dane exclaims proudly. “Brightland is a great builder, but it’s just that sometimes people can’t envision the space themselves.”
One of the unique features of The Curated Studio is that they not only stage vacant or spec homes, but they also stage occupied homes. They are one of the only staging companies that work their magic in occupied spaces.
“That’s what is so great about occupied staging…it’s not about we don’t like your stuff, it’s about how that’s your stuff and your history and family,” Dane continues. “You want a buyer to walk into your home and feel like it could be their home.”
Even with virtual staging now an option, Trista explains how real staging is essential. “There are some virtual staging programs out there right now that do a great job, but you still need to carry that through once you get that person
Mediamax Inc; Photographer Patrick Golden
Mediamax Inc; Photographer Patrick Golden
“You want a buyer to walk into your home and feel like it could be their home.”
in the house. You might still lose that buyer once they get there, and that’s why I think that we’re still very relevant.”
As the ladies stage homes, they ensure the entire room is staged, not just the parts that are photographed. Small nooks that don’t get photographed are still made to look phenomenal to give warmth and life to the home. They go the extra mile with artwork, bedding, nightstands, lamps, blankets, and rugs. Their signature pieces, which bring a special design to a space, are mirrors and crystals.
“We do these great mirrors,” Trista explains. “And everybody loves them and everyone wants to buy them.” The mirrors brighten spaces, while the crystals bring an organic element to homes, helping set these staged homes apart from the competition.
As the group discusses what sets them apart, Trista adds, “Rugs also bring a whole room together. It makes it look finished and like a home.”
Kylie explains how a homeowner came back after the Curated Staging crew had been hard at work in her home and said, “Oh my gosh, I never knew my house could look like this. Now I really don’t want to move!”
Speaking of Kylie, the Curated Staging staff gives back to the community by hiring high school and college students who want a chance to peek into the real estate, design, and staging industry. Kylie wants to go into real estate, so Dane and Trista are offering her a plethora of fantastic opportunities to see what that’s like.
“It’s like instant gratification. At the end of the day, you see everything complete, and it just feels so good.”
“We switch it up to get some variety,” Dane says. “One stage, Mandy will pull all the artwork, Kylie will pull all the bathroom accessories, and then we all kind of group together and get pillows. We have a saying that you can’t have too many pillows.”
Once at a home, the staging process is foolproof after working together and sharing the bond of seeing a space come to life.
“It’s like instant gratification,” Mandy says after long hours of hard work staging a space. “At the end of the day, you see everything complete, and it just feels so good.”
Trista adds, “It’s like the pictures don’t even do it justice.”
Mandy says it best when she says, “Dane and Trista have such a great real estate background. I think that is an advantage.”
To stage a space, the crew collaborates to capture video footage, share it via text, and exchange ideas to achieve the best results. The morning of a stage, they have a pre-meeting to discuss challenges, and then they’re off to load the truck with their inventory.
One of the highlights of staging is helping people during such a stressful time. Moving is not for the faint of heart, and these ladies work tirelessly to relieve some of that pressure.
“It’s such a good feeling also knowing we’re helping them with a move,” Dane says. “It’s one of the most stressful things that you do, especially selling your home in a market like this.”
LIVING STYLE in
THE INTERSECTION OF FASHION AND HOME
ARTICLE BY TYLER AMADEUS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ADRIEN KING AND ALEC WALWORTH
INthis unexpected love affair, fashion and interiors are more than just a simple pairing—they are rooted in culture, creativity, and the human desire for self-expression.
As conscious consumers of the 21st century, participating in a retail landscape that is oversaturated and struggling to adapt to the ever-changing demands of the modern customer, our purchasing power should not only respond to a feeling of want but also prioritize items that reflect who we are and who we aspire to be. This is clearly visible through the representation of fashion and interiors.
Although we tend to consider cost-per-wear primarily when it comes to clothing, this same principle applies to furniture and the function it brings to the home. Aesthetics and functionality both play a role in this pairing, painting a picture for the rest of the world of who the wearer is and how they live in their space.
The woman who wears a blazer with sharp shoulders that makes her feel powerful in her everyday life—or the black dress that gives her a necessary boost of confidence—may naturally gravitate toward sleek, modern furniture that feels equally strong and elevates the space where the modern woman thrives.
In the same way, someone who prefers an effortless ensemble—like their favorite white T-shirt and comfortable denim jeans—may also look for home pieces that are functional and make their guests feel at ease. Even a handmade rug, one that sparks conversation about where it was found and adds a focal point to a room, mirrors how we search our closets for a sweater tied to a cherished memory.
Just as we carefully choose outfits to express ourselves, it’s equally important to ensure that our living spaces are designed with the
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same intention. More than ever, modern buyers are making purchasing decisions based on personal morals and values, forming a new wave of consumers who seek products that are both high-quality and environmentally or socially conscious, whether for themselves or their homes.
The following imagery affirms that living a timeless lifestyle across all aspects of life is possible through the thoughtful styling of sustainable clothing and vintage furniture. As the modern retail landscape continues to evolve, it’s become increasingly vital to make conscious consumer choices—ones that allow us to express our truest selves through both our wardrobes and the places we call home.
ART DIRECTION
Amy Appleton
STYLING
Tyler Amadeus
MODELS
Amy Appleton and Elena Weber
Personalized Care At Every Visit
SEPTEMBER 2025
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
SEPTEMBER 6TH & 7TH
Castle Rock Artfest
Downtown Castle Rock
This two-day event is held in downtown Castle Rock at Festival Park. Delight in the artistic impressions of more than 110 artists from across the country. Continual live main-stage entertainment, featuring popular musicians, will provide a complimentary backdrop to this year’s program.
Saturday, Sept. 6 - 9 AM to 6 PM
Sunday, Sept. 7 - 10 AM to 5 PM
SEPTEMBER 18TH
Tunes for Trails / Perks for Parks Free Concert - DanceX
Philip S. Miller Park - 1375 W. Plum Creek Parkway Castle Rock, CO 80109 | 6:30 PM
Participate in a good cause with the Tunes for Trails / Perks for Parks free concert series.
The concert begins at 6:30 p.m. Pack a picnic and enjoy some time with the family before the show. Food and alcohol will also be available for purchase. No outside beverages are allowed except one factory-sealed water bottle per person.
SEPTEMBER 20TH & 21ST
Larkspur Autumn Arts & Crafts Fest
Larkspur Community Park - Spruce Mountain Rd. Larkspur, CO 80118 | 10:00 AM
Come enjoy this 13th annual, free, funfilled, family event! Browse dozens of booths featuring unique, handcrafted pieces by local artists and artisans. Savor good food, beer and wine, catch the live bands, get your face painted or adopt a cuddly rescue dog! Shop
farmer’s market items, inspect a fire truck and medical helicopter! Come join the fun!
Saturday, Sept. 21 - 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Sunday, Sept. 22nd - 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM
SEPTEMBER 20TH
Oktoberfest
Downtown Castle Rock | 1:00 PM
Enjoy live German music while indulging in delicious offerings from our food trucks. Kids can have a blast with free bounce houses, a rock wall, and inflatable games, while adults can sip on beer, wine, and cocktails. Don't miss out on the vendor booths and cap off the night with a DJ dance party from 7 to 9 p.m.
SEPTEMBER 21ST
6th Annual Walk to End ALS
105 West Brewing Co. - 1043 Park St., Castle Rock, CO | 1:30 PM
Paul’s Mystery Ship to End ALS was launched in 2020 in memory of Paul Dannels, who courageously battled ALS. Our foundation brings hope by supporting research, offering essential equipment, awarding scholarships, providing companionship, and helping families facing the challenges of ALS. We are also committed to raising awareness and understanding of this devastating disease.
SEPTEMBER 27TH
Glow Dance Party
Philip S. Miller Park - 1375 W. Plum Creek Parkway Castle Rock, CO 80109 | 6:30 PM
Don't miss our annual Glow Dance Party benefiting the Therapeutic Recreation Program. Participate in fitness dance programs including Zumba, Rebel Groove, Mixxed Fit and D2G SocaFit. There will be great music, dancing, prizes and more! Want
Crystal Cleaning
Steve turned a magazine into community.
City Lifestyle isn’t just a publication — it’s a pulse. A rhythm of voices, neighbors, and stories woven together by someone who believes in the power of connection. As we expand, we’re looking for people ready to turn care into community. Are you ready to be that spark?
Castle Rock City Lifestyle
Published by Steve Loved by Castle Rock
A Cozy Twist on a Classic Vanilla Chai
Old Fashioned
INGREDIENTS
• Chai tea bags
• Real maple syrup
• Vanilla extract
• Bourbon
• Lemon juice
• Orange bitters
• Chai tea syrup
• Sparkling water
• Cinnamon and star anise
METHOD
CHAI SIMPLE SYRUP
In a medium pot, bring 1 cup water to a boil. Remove from the heat, add the chai tea bags, cover and steep 10-15 minutes. Remove the tea bags and add the maple. Bring to a boil over high heat. Boil 3-5 minutes, then remove from the heat. Stir in the vanilla. Let cool. Keep in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
OLD FASHIONED
• In a cocktail shaker, combine the bourbon, lemon juice, orange bitters, and 2 tablespoons of the chai syrup. Shake to combine.
• Strain into a glass. If desired top with sparkling water. Garnish with cinnamon and star anise.
ARTICLE BY TIEGHAN GERARD
Castle Pines
The
Castle Pines Homes
Advance HOA
Castle Pines Village
Keene Ranch
The Village at Castle Pines
The Village at Castle Pines
MSI
Charter
The Village Castle Pines
Pinon Soleil HOA
The Village at Castle Pines
Bell
Diversified
Castlewood
Castle Rock Realty Report
A SAMPLE OF RECENTLY SOLD PROPERTIES IN CASTLE ROCK
ORIGINAL PRICE
$4,250,000
$3,800,000
$2,672,000
$2,790,000
$3,000,000
$3,600,000
$2,502,213
$2,475,000
$2,100,000
$2,200,000
$1,780,000
$1,695,000
$1,695,000
$1,575,000
$1,550,000
$1,525,000
$1,650,000
$1,499,000
$1,425,000
$1,335,000
$1,350,000
$1,250,000
$1,265,000
$1,275,000
$1,189,000
$3,600,000
$3,550,000
$2,850,012
$2,700,000
$2,700,000
$2,577,000
$2,300,241
$2,150,700
$2,100,000
$2,050,000
$1,780,000
$1,655,000
$1,640,000
$1,575,000
$1,575,000
$1,480,000
$1,450,000
$1,399,000
$1,325,000
$1,297,733
$1,290,000
$1,250,000
$1,250,000
$1,200,000
$1,169,000
