We had the good fortune of connecting with Amy Borman and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Amy, what makes you happy? Why?
Honestly? All things design. I’ve always been drawn to beautiful spaces—from the bold flair of Dorothy Draper to the classic lines of vintage furniture that never go out of style. I love the stories behind the pieces, the evolution of style, and how design has this magical way of mixing history with personality.

But what really lights me up is the journey I take with each client—a journey that’s never the same twice.

Sure, they may have worked with other designers before. And I’ve worked with many clients over the years. But when we come together, it’s a fresh start. A new story. A blank page.

Design, to me, isn’t one-size-fits-all. It’s a deeply personal process of discovery. I take what makes you unique—your lifestyle, your quirks, your Pinterest saves at 2 a.m.—and reinterpret that into a space that feels like home, only elevated. It’s where form meets function, where beauty and utility hold hands, and where your vision comes to life in a way you didn’t even know was possible.

What makes me happy is the magic of that transformation. The moment a client walks into their finished space and says, “This is so me—but better.” That’s the heartbeat of what I do. That’s the joy of truly custom, thoughtful design.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
Of course, like any meaningful career, mine has come with its share of lessons. When I first started in interior design, it was my talent alone that opened doors. My passion for design, my eye for detail, and my instinct for how to bring a space together naturally drew me into project after project. But the industry has changed.

Design today is more visible—and more accessible—than ever. With so many people immersed in DIY shows, social media inspiration boards, and fast-moving trends, it can feel like design has been reduced to before-and-after snapshots. But here’s the thing: true, lasting design is never just about what looks good today. It’s about how a space works, how it flows, how it supports your life day after day. That’s not something you get from a 30-minute reveal.

One of the biggest challenges I’ve learned to navigate is gently steering clients away from surface-level trends that don’t actually reflect their style—or won’t stand the test of time. I’ve learned that being a great designer isn’t just about having vision; it’s about being an excellent communicator. I take the time to listen, decode what someone really wants (even if they don’t quite have the words for it), and translate that into smart choices that blend beauty, function, and personality.

Budget, space planning, lifestyle—all of it matters. And I’ve built a reputation for being honest, resourceful, and solutions-driven, even when the design path gets tricky. I don’t just want to create something beautiful—I want it to be yours, in every sense of the word.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
A Week in Denver with a Designer’s Touch
If a good friend came to visit me in Denver, here’s exactly how we’d do it—equal parts style, scenery, and just enough indulgence.

Day 1 – A Warm Welcome in Cherry Creek
We’d kick things off with brunch at Local Jones in Cherry Creek—hello, perfectly poached eggs and people-watching! Afterward, we’d stroll the boutique-lined streets, maybe pop into Denver Darling or grab a few luxe essentials at A Line Boutique. Easy, elevated, and just enough sparkle to start the week.

Day 2 – Morning Buzz + Design Treasure Hunting
We’d start our day at Honey Hill Café for coffee and maybe a pastry (okay, definitely a pastry). Then head over to the Golden Triangle for a little design inspo and shopping at Modern Nomad, a must-see collective of cool local finds, vintage pieces, and curated home goods. I’d also take them to Textile Lofts near Wash Park—it’s a hidden gem for fabric and texture lovers.

Day 3 – Nature & Neighborhoods
Time to stretch our legs. We’d lace up our boots for a scenic hike at Deer Creek Canyon Trailhead near Chatfield—close enough to the city, but still serene and soul-refreshing. After freshening up, we’d hit happy hour at Perdida in Wash Park for elevated margaritas and SoCal vibes. A golden hour walk through the Wash Park neighborhood after? Always.

Day 4 – A Little Culture, A Lot of Walking
We’d head to City Park for a morning stroll, hopefully catching the sunrise over the lake with mountain views in the distance. Then maybe swing by the Denver Botanic Gardens or the Denver Museum of Nature & Science for a cultural fix. Dinner in RiNo at somewhere like Safta? Yes, please.

Days 5–7 – Mountain Reset in Vail or Beaver Creek
Then it’s time to head for the hills. We’d escape to the mountains—Vail or Beaver Creek—depending on the vibe. Think crisp air, sweeping views, fireside chats, and maybe a spa day. Whether we’re skiing or just savoring long mountain mornings with coffee, it’s the perfect reset. Bonus: the dining in both towns is exceptional—Sweet Basil in Vail is a fave, and Mirabelle in Beaver Creek feels like a hidden gem.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I bring to the table experience from working with high-end specialty firms as well as respected local design studios—but the true credit for my success goes far beyond a résumé. It’s my clients who have shaped me. Many have trusted me with multiple homes, referred me to their friends and family, and welcomed me so deeply into their lives that I’ve become an honorary family member. That kind of trust and loyalty means everything to me—and it’s a testament to the relationships I build, not just the spaces I design.

And none of it would be possible without the incredible teams I’ve built along the way—vendors, artisans, and contractors who show up with talent, professionalism, and heart. A special shoutout goes to the incredible crew at Ruhl Valley—three brothers who make every job smoother, better, and even a little more fun. I’ve been fortunate to lead many of their projects, and their great communication, attention to detail, and “can-do” attitude make them some of the best in the business. At the end of the day, my success is deeply rooted in collaboration—and I wouldn’t have it any other way.

Website: https://amybormanid.com

Instagram: AmyBormanDesign

Linkedin: Amy Borman, ASID

Facebook: Amy Borman Design

Image Credits
Marilee Photography: Stephanie Tucker
Libbie Martin Photography

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutColorado is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.