We had the good fortune of connecting with Stephanie Greenwell-Lynn and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Stephanie, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
My dad is an Architect, he has a masters in restoration of historical buildings, so, from a very young age I was exposed to countless architecture and design books; I used to go with him to some of his projects’ job sites and I remember vividly the smell of the buildings prior to restoration; I got to witness my dad working his magic and bringing the spaces back to their original beauty, his passion for his trade is contagious. He was so driven and passionate about it! He always appreciated the culture and did an awesome job preserving the authenticity and integrity of the buildings. Used local workers and local materials, and the final project was this incredible building that respected the historic fabric of the town while standing on its own. At the same time, my mother has always been an avid Art History student and our home was full of art books as well; so, when it was time, I decided I wanted to have my own way of making beautiful spaces and injecting the same passion my parents had for the things they did and learn in them, and that is why I went to design school. I feel extremely lucky to be able to receive that love and work ethic through their DNA, and in my own humble and respectful way, I’m working on doing the same thing with Corduroy.
Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
As a facilities interior space planner I enjoy the challenges that are presented to me each day, however, what this type of job lacks, is working with beautiful objects, sure you can select cool office furniture but it is not the same, since you truly are not creating a space that will represent the users personality. You often times are following a standard already set by a big corporation. I am someone that have my wheels constatly spinning, I am always thinking on creating, designing or constructing spaces or objetcs, so, when the pandemic hit, I found myself wondering how I could incorporate my true passion of interior design and curating items as a creative outlet that will bring joy not only to mysef but to to other people as well; and that is how Corduroy was born.
At Corduroy I strive to show people that no matter the size of their place or their budget, they can always create something they can fall in love with. Embracing an item without having to look perfect is the key; as a matter of fact, many times pursuing imperfection is part of the goal. Helping you create a dwelling that speaks who you are, that tells your “story”, is what I aim for.
My goal is to have a store with a strong aesthetic, full of furniture and objects, “found objects” I call it, that tell stories. Items people would enjoy having in their places; I have seen how many times decor, art and furniture can become great conversation starters, and I would like to contribute to that.
I also love to bring a cultural point of view in the design of a place and exhibit the objects found in trips to other countries. The richness that those objects can add to a place is priceless. You are never going to see something at Corduroy that was acquired “just because I think it will sell”. Everything you’ll see there, is very well curated; something I would have in my own house. I’m constantly marveling at the beauty of imperfect, old objects as well as beautiful contemporary items. I want those as part of peoples’ lives. It helps you to learn to respect sensibility and I cant wait to witness when a person finds “the” perfect additon to their home in Corduroy.
Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I love Denver, this place has many awesome things to offer to visitors and it is hard to narrow it down, but here is where I would take them: We would start the day enjoying a breeze walk in Washington Park, then head to Lucile’s for brunch. After that head to Old South Pearl Street for a shopping spree. The museum of Modern Art would be the next stop to enjoy the latest exhibit and finish the day at Jax fish house for drinks and dinner.
Barcelona, Cuba Cuba, Uchi, any event (if it is an Opera even better) at the Performing Arts Complex, The Botanic Gardens and a concert at Red Rocks are a must!
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would like to give a shoutout to my husband and best friend, Kevin, without his moral and physical support this place would not look the way it does. I also would like to give a shoutout to my sister, Erika, she pushed me to believe in myself and help in many ways get Corduroy going.
Website: corduroydenver.com
Instagram: @corduroydenver
Image Credits
Personal picture: Kevin Lynn All store pictures: Stephanie Greenwell-Lynn