SwiftCo Magazine Issue 01

SWIFT Co

REALESTATENorman, OK Palm Springs, CA East Cape, MX

Hi Norman homeowner. After 25 years of renovating homes and large scale historic projects in Norman, Oklahoma City, and Palm Springs – I thought it would be nice to extend an introduction.

I care about creating spaces that allow you to live your best life here in Norman. Whether that means adding an outdoor space for entertaining, incorporating an elevated remodel, being trusted to repair your home’s roof (after the catastrophic hail storms), or helping you find the best new home for your family on the market – the Swiftco team adds value.

We hope you enjoy our new SwiftCo magazine – a printed editorial experience bringing our new clients a little closer to knowing the SwiftCo difference.

Preserving, restoring, and creating timeless beauty in homes excites me almost as much as helping great people find a house they can make their own in our community. Don’t hesitate to let me know how I can help you with your real estate needs, construction, or roofing.

Brent Swift

We wanted to give our community and potential new clients

A TASTEFUL INTRODUCTION into all the ways we can make life easier.

Brent Swift started Deckworks in January 1998 while working at Channel 5 News in Oklahoma City and writing news copy for Reuters wire services. Inspired to build, he began working on the outdoor projects for clients.

FROM BRENT

I bought, renovated and sold my first single family home on Avondale Drive in 1998 –this started a trend of me buying and selling homes. I bought the homes and sold them to offset the slow times of the seasonal deck building business here in Oklahoma. I started figuring out very early on how to make homes more spatially efficient. The design side of building came pretty naturally. I would see things in magazines or when I traveled that I wasn’t seeing here at home (this was before google mind you), so I began sourcing those items and integrating them into our home projects.

In 2009, I had hired a local architect to design a modern home, and they just weren’t seeing what I was seeing. So after talking with a friend, she forwarded me Hans’ Butzers’ phone number (Butzer Architects and Urbanism) and the rest is history– we’ve worked together on many successful projects. When we design a home, I’m always looking over the shoulder of the architect. Hans gets this and I am grateful for our collaborative work style. Most local architects understand that I have pretty strong opinion on design and space (based on my portfolio) and will accommodate – while others architects might hate it and prefer not to work with me and that’s fine.

THE BACKSTORY ON SWIFTCO

DECKWORKS TODAY

We build between 60-80 decks, patios, and pergolas every year; the pergolas are still western cedar, but we no longer use wood for decks. Today our decks are made with composite decking materials. We prefer composite for the value it provides in offsetting the maintenance costs for the homeowner long-term. Being a carpenter at my core, I use some exotic hardwoods like Ipe (spelled ipe and pronounced “ee-pay”), also known as Brazilian Hardwood. It is a beautiful exotic wood from South America, which is naturally resistant to rot, decay, abrasion, weather, and insects – I’ve used it for many years. The average deck project takes us about a week to build.

ON SWIFTCO

Honestly, I think now is a great time to be in our industry. We have all the latest and greatest design ideas right at our fingertips in our social media feeds. For our build and renovation projects, we like to stay in our own lane, which for SwiftCo, is warm wood cabinetry, wood floors, marble tile, and cool tone wall colors. We generally shy away from the trendy paint colors in order to create a clean and timeless contemporary aesthetic. I personally think “it’s not interesting if you have to copy it.” A better approach might be to copy it, but make it your own style!

ON REAL ESTATE

To date, I’ve bought and sold more than 250 homes, condos, and commercial buildings. This has provided me with immeasurable insights to the real estate industry and buying/selling of properties as a whole. I add a unique perspective in the real estate process due to the experiences I’ve had with my own properties. This allows me to assist my clients on a variety of issues that might arise during the process.

ON ROOFING

I have been installing and repairing roofs since I began in the construction industry 25 years ago. In the last few years I’ve created a team dedicated to helping clients with their roofing needs. We want members of our local community to have the help they might need to deal with all types of roofing situations, and the repairs that come with severe storms.

Brent Swift pictured on the far right with early days of Deckworks associate, Tony Riley

THE FAST EDIT

KNOLL DESIGNER: WARREN PLATNER

KILL INTERNATIONAL DESIGNER:HORST BRÜNING

HERMAN MILLER

DESIGNER: RAY & CHARLES EAMES

When presented with the opportunity to shop for furniture, it can be challenging to imagine classic options outside of the mass produced showrooms that remain prevalent here in the Midwest. To each his own, but many of the pieces that pique your interest are likely large scale fast furniture copycats with nods of influence from legendary designers. It’s no secret top mcm designers are responsible for a vast influence in the world of furniture design. With an interest in Modernism and design, Brent has developed a regard for learning the unique histories of iconic mid-century modern furnishings.

“Investing in a few vintage furniture pieces is not only a sustainable decision, but it’s also a stylish one.” Well designed vintage furniture pieces retain their value and are great conversation pieces. There are several online vintage stores that sell some amazing and collectible furniture. You can easily score your own Horst Bruning or Eames Lounge chair with the simple click of a button. Vintage furniture pieces add diversity and style to any home’s interiors.

A PAIR OF CHAIRS

This timeless and unique pair of chairs were designed by Arthur Elrod for a home located in the Tennis Club neighborhood in Palm Springs, CA. Brent purchased the two swivel chairs from a furniture collector in Palm Springs. The pieces were in a Palm Springs Life Magazine article a few years ago. Elrod was the most successful interior designer working in Palm Springs from 1954 until his untimely death in 1974.

FROM NINA WADLEY OF NO COAST DESIGN

“The pair of chairs are a stunning vintage mid-century shape and I knew when I saw them at their office that they were coming into the house. They had what was probably the original upholstery and needed a refresh, but otherwise, just a great little set of chairs that works well for the sitting area in the primary suite.”

“I love this fabric so much. It had been on my magnet board at the studio for a while looking for a home. I always pin up fabrics that I love to look at, so they are ready to go when the right project comes along.”

“As the design of this home developed, we knew we would be incorporating pinks. It was the perfect time to pull out this Radish Moon print. The sunlight in that room is super cozy and we used a warm neutral pink handmade tile on the fireplace so this print really completed the moment. The right pink works well as a neutral and in this space, it’s inviting and intimate without feeling too basic, the designer is Radish Moon.”

image courtesy of LIFE Magazine archive

ELEVATE YOUR SPACE

SIMPLICITY IS KEY

Modernism is simplicity at its core. Let one material meet another in a complementary way, whether this is a colorful rug layered on wood floors, or a prized piece of artwork floating on an unexpected wall. Remove large dated furniture pieces and allow the lines of the architecture to highlight the dimensions of space, when applicable.

LET THE LIGHT IN

The north light of a room can be a stunner on its own depending on the layout of the home. When natural light entering a space is maximized, it brings the capability to see each room’s space with clarity. Accentuate the main areas where light enters and add more light when you are able.

SMOOTH OUT THOSE WALLS

Furniture and paint can go a long way to modernize a home. Smoothing textured walls and using a neutral paint color provides a space of contrast for art to pop off the walls and make an impact.

TAKE A RISK OR TWO

Taking risks is where you will discover the potential originality of a project. Consider painting the fireplace brick or rock if the original state is questionable and takes away from the lighting of the room. Try to stay uniform when making these decisions throughout the house for a cohesive curated feel.

WHITE LINENS

It may seem boring at first but testing it out on one bed in the home is worth it: the bed appears like a cloud and bestows restful vibes just from adding white sheets and layers.

WOW THAT WALL

A statement wall is an easy way to add a simple walkthrough wow factor to any home. The current market of wallpaper can be overwhelming as you can find a mindblowing amount of bold patterns, textures, or murals and have an even more challenging time narrowing down favorites. See below for a simple approach to gather inspiration for your new conversational wall piece!

TIPS FOR CREATING YOUR OWN STATEMENT WALL

1. Visit No Coast Design Studio or Ketch Design in Oklahoma City or another favorite wallpaper studio and bring a cup of coffee and peruse all the wallpaper books.

2. Bring a photo of the room that you plan to add the wallpaper vignette.

3. Snap images and inquire the best route to obtain samples of your top three selections.

4. Use the samples to then bring the furniture choices or items on hand of interest into the space vignette.

5. Have a rendering done of your favorite three if you are having trouble visualizing.

6. Reach out to an interior designer for help narrowing selections down and working with project constraints.

ONE HOUSE 5 walls

While Nina Wadley of No Coast Design shares the credit for many of the walls and interiors Brent creates, we asked Brent’s partner, Alisse Ellis, to share 5 favorite wallpaper designs she has discovered.

1 POWDER BATH SUGAR HICCUPS VOUTSA 2 CHILDRENS ROOM MYTHICAL LAND ANDREW MARTIN

HALLWAY NOOK LOS ANGELES TOILE - EZ FLAVOR

PALM SPRINGS CALLING

In 2012, I was at home reading a story in the LA times about Trousdale Estates in Beverly Hills, CA. I started researching Paul Trousdale and the Mid-Century Modern movement, which led me to Steven Price, an author and historian on Mid-Century Modern architecture. Inspired originally to make the trip out there for Modernism Week, I then discovered Price was lecturing in Palm Springs during Modernism Week (the Fall of 2012). After attending his lecture, we went to the infamous Racquet Club Cottage West Condos in Palm Springs.

The Racquet Club (adjacent property) was a famous resort for the Hollywood elite and celebrities during the 30s and through the 70s – the Racquet Club was the spot to be seen. The condos onsite were originally built as a hotel extension for the Racquet Club. The unit we own today, I made an offer on the first day we walked on the property – our unit is two combined hotel suites. I’ve become extremely familiar with the property as I have bought and sold three other units in this complex. It is really inspiring to share time in Palm Springs a few times a year. Inevitably, I bring ideas back to my projects in Oklahoma.

It was serendipity. The first day I walked on the property, I thought to myself – “I’m going to buy one of these units today!” I ended up buying a studio apartment first and then bought a larger two bedroom 6 months later. When our son Stone was a baby, we used to go for several weeks at a time in the winter and we have really enjoyed sharing our time out there – Palm, Springs, CA is the mecca for mid-century modern.

“My love of art, architecture, furniture, pottery, and design have all been elevated by my exposure to Palm Springs and our many friends and partners who live and work in Palm Springs. I hope this little bit encourages our readers and future clients to become curious and explore the historical importance that is Palm Springs.”

PALM SPRINGS

HISTORICAL HOT SPOTS

• Tramway Gas Station

• Palm Springs Aerial Tramway

• Coachella Valley Savings & Loan

• Hope Residence

• The Kaufmann Desert House

• Sinatra House

• Elvis Honeymoon House

SEXY SOFAS

With a plethora of sofa designs available in made-to-order companies like Bench Made Modern or Joybird, we thought it might be fun to share some stunning designs that might be leading the way with upcoming market trends. We like made-to-order for the sustainable element, when you can make it work, as well as repurposed pieces, as noted in our Fast Edit piece. Most of the couches sourced here are in the luxury market and are just a glimpse into Alisse’s brain when given the opportunity to literally “couch surf”.

DESCHEN SOFA NOHO HOME $7875

MILO BAUGHMAN BRAZILIAN ROSEWOOD CASE SOFA 1STDIBS $18500

OLIVIER MOURGUE “DJINN” SETTEE FOR AIRBORNE, CIRCA 1964 1STDIBS $12,500

FEATURED LISTING

5 BD| 4.5 BA | 5,985 SQ/FT | $1,750, 000

MLS # 1022091

MODERN POOL + CABANA RESORT STYLE TERRACE CHARMING GREENHOUSE IN GROUND SPRINKLER SYSTEMS

You must see this modern masterpiece nestled in one of Norman’s most coveted neighborhoods. The 5 bedroom, 4.5 bathroom home was recently reimagined by Brent Swift, with interiors under the direction of No Coast Design Studio and exterior landscaping by LAUD Studio. This sophisticated home has served generations of families and is now being made available for the next generation. The flowing layout offers two spacious living rooms, two dining areas, with the primary suite on the main floor with direct access to both the pool and a private patio space. This home also features a large recreation room with a custom pool table. A large private office and wet bar are located on the main floor. On the second floor, two jack-and-jill style bathrooms support a total of 4 bedrooms, each opening up to a private balcony, while sharing a stunning view of the backyard. This home has been beautifully appointed and designed with the utmost detail. Call Brent to have a tour today!

1916 WHISPERING PINES CIRCLE | NORMAN

CUSTOM 5’ PIVOT FRONT DOOR NATURAL LIGHT THROUGHOUT HOME OFFICE SPACE DESIRABLE SCHOOL DISTRICT

THE LOGAN LEGACY

7 FACTS: THE LOGAN

1. The Logan Building is now on the National Register of Historic Places, since Brent’s renovation in 2013.

2. Many OU students have passed through the Logan Building since David Logan built it in 1929.

3. The Logan was built in 4 months, and completed in August, 1929.

4. David Logan was a geologist and worked for the Marland Oil Company.

5. The Logan family donated the building to the University of Oklahoma in 1934. This iconic building sits on the corner of Lahoma and Boyd Street.

6. After WWII, soldiers who were married and needed housing stayed in the Logan building.

7. Swift purchased The Logan Building in 2012 from the University with a pledge from him to restore the building and reopen it. It had been shut down by OU since the early 1990’s.

8. Brent invested a tremendous amount of time and resources in restoring (what used to be close to 30 units) to four, twobedroom apartments and four, one-bedroom apartments.

9. Although the place doesn’t present itself as such, The Logan is a 16,000 square foot building.

Roofing Installation + Repair

Outdoor Living Spaces + Pools

Elevated Renovations + Room Additions

Real Estate Solutions

WHEN EXPERIENCE MATTERS – TRUST SWIFTCO.

@swiftco.real.estate

@swiftco.construction brentswift.com

#SHELFIE

Learning to style shelves takes some practice and patience. Visually planning shelves may not come easy to some, but we have found that shelves become an architectural stage for highlighting objects that hold special meaning. Historical artifacts, sculptural pieces, photographs and books make their ways into our lives and then onto our shelves.

A FEW IDEAS FOR CREATING YOUR BEST #SHELFIE.

• Organize books on shelves according to spine color family.

• Consider varying the horizontal and vertical stacking while using special pieces as bookends.

• Save favorite sculptural objects for highly visible shelves to create an intentional look.

• Use a minimal approach with only a few pieces of pottery and favorite books.

• Attempt the trend of books arranged with text outward for a seamless and clean effect.

• Mix up shapes and stagger objects, layer artworks to create framing composition

THE HOME TEAM

Brent Swift has made a career out of turning houses into happy homes. He is a seasoned real estate professional with over 25 years of buying, selling, and renovating homes and commercial spaces in the greater Norman and Oklahoma City areas. Brent’s extensive transactional experience and knowledge of how a property can be fully realized will help you make a sound decision. With a spirit of practical creativity and a dynamic understanding of design, Brent will lead you through the process of purchasing a home or commercial property with actual real estate expertise.

LITTLE KNOWN FACT: I collect Architectural Pottery

FAVE NEIGHBORHOOD: West Campus

HISTORIC or MODERN: Modern

FAVE RESTAURANT: Pepe Delgados

REASON I LOVE REAL ESTATE: The people I meet

ANDREA SANTINI

Andrea Santini is a trusted real estate agent ready to help you find your next home. After growing up in northern Illinois, Andrea studied Montessori education in Portland, Oregon, working as a professional teacher for over 13 years. Her experience in education is invaluable when helping prospective home buyers find the perfect place to raise a family. Andrea’s husband grew up in the area, and after over a decade of visiting, their family decided to make the move to Norman several years ago. They and their two daughters, ages 4 and 8, enjoy camping and hiking the nature trails surrounding Norman. You’ll also find Andrea and her family checking out a local Art Walk or taking a family bike ride through the OU campus. She also enjoys staying active with yoga and meditation. Norman has a lot to offer, with unique neighborhoods and historic

BRENT SWIFT

areas, and Andrea is prepared to help you find the right home.

LITTLE KNOWN FACT:

Originally from Portlandia!

FAVE NEIGHBORHOOD: Chautauqua Street

HISTORIC or MODERN: Historic

FAVE RESTAURANT: Neighborhood Jam

REASON I LOVE REAL ESTATE: Making new friends and building community in the real estate arena and with clients!

REPLACING YOUR ROOF THE

5 REASONS: SWIFTCO IS THE BEST CHOICE FOR YOUR ROOF

1. EXPERIENCE – We’ve been installing roofs for more than 25 years even though most people associate us with renovation projects or deck design – replacing roofs are among that work as well.

2. OUR CREW – Becoming a respected construction team does’t happen overnight. Brent’s crew is top-notch, professional and fast. We have worked with many of our people for most of our 25 years!

3. SWIFTCO IS LOCAL – Brent and his family are Norman locals invested in revitalization of community. Many of the other roofing companies that advertise statewide are traveling crews with little or no connection to Norman. We would love to earn your business as a respected local company!

4. DESIGN DECISIONS – A design-build firm at the core, Brent is on your side when making some of the decisions that affect the aesthetic of your roof and exterior facade. For example, it can be tricky to select a complimentary color of shingle or gutter system, especially if you are planning to make updates to the exterior of your home via paint color, siding or cladding. Brent is happy to offer shingle type, color and size suggestions based on your home’s current state of aesthetic or desired.

5. THE WHOLE ROOF – The process of repairing and replacing a roof can be daunting to those who have not yet needed to replace a roof. When stepping into the process, it can be overwhelming to have an insurance inspector advise you need carpentry repairs, window replacement, soffit work, guttering, as well as a new roof as Oklahoma storms often damage much more than just the roof. Brent and his team see the whole project and can easily communicate with you all areas of the prepared work order while handling the insurance claim process for your family.