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Creating a Dream Ski Retreat: The Journey of Margaret Coblentz and Geoff Miller

Margaret Coblentz and Geoff Miller’s relationship began on the slopes of California during a shared ski trip. This initial encounter blossomed into a deep connection marked by their mutual love for skiing and various life adventures. They maintained their bond after the trip, eventually marrying and starting a family together.

While they call San Francisco home, the couple sought an additional residence that would enhance their skiing experience. Although the California mountains were a tempting option, their ties to the Midwest and Kentucky led them to explore Utah as a viable location for a ski retreat. This choice not only provided them with access to thrilling skiing opportunities but also served as a convenient gathering spot for their extended families. Miller emphasizes, “Skiing is a crucial part of our lives as a couple, but we also greatly enjoy bringing people together.”

The couple purchased a fully furnished house in Deer Valley that they initially loved. However, the traditional architectural style failed to resonate with their personal aesthetic. When a prime ski-in/ski-out lot became available, they saw a perfect opportunity to create a more personalized space. Although the land was devoid of a structure, it came with pre-approved architectural plans, a starting point that the couple appreciated. With the expertise of their friend and designer, Senalee Kapelevich from SVK Interior Design, who had previously worked on their San Francisco home, they planned to customize it to meet their vision.

Now, the couple enjoys stunning, unobstructed views of Deer Valley from their home, a fitting tribute to their love for skiing. “We entered the project with a distinct vision for the house and the ambiance we desired,” Miller explains. Throughout their research, they observed two primary design trends in mountain homes: the traditional Western style and modern, angular designs. Instead, they aimed for a middle ground—one that combined their Californian roots with mountain influences, as Kapelevich aptly describes it: “California, but in the mountains.”

Prioritizing comfort alongside visual appeal was crucial for Coblentz and Miller. “We were focused on the house’s livability, not just its aesthetic,” Coblentz notes. A key detail was the flooring. Given that they prefer to be barefoot or in socks at home, the tactile experience of the floors mattered greatly. They collaborated with First, Last & Always, a custom flooring company based in San Francisco, to select materials that complement their lifestyle. “The flooring is incredibly soft; it doesn’t have that waxy feel,” Miller adds. “It feels like freshly sanded wood straight from the mill.”

Through their collaboration with Kapelevich and their thoughtful approach to design, Coblentz and Miller have successfully crafted a ski retreat that resonates with their personal style, honors their shared passion, and provides a welcoming space for family and friends.

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