BY SHALEEN DESTEFANO

Colfax has always been one of Denver’s most iconic streets. A place where history, creativity, and independent businesses have coexisted for generations. Recently, it’s faced its share of challenges, making it more important than ever for us to show up and support.

For more than 20 years, Mod Livin has been one of those places. Part showroom, part design destination, it’s where Denverites come to create homes that feel personal. Under owner Craig Troyer’s leadership, the beloved Colfax staple stays true to the spirit that has made it a favorite for design lovers across the city.

Craig talked with us about the enduring appeal of mid-century modern design, and the joys and challenges of owning a small business.

What first drew you to mid-century modern furniture, and what ultimately convinced you to leave corporate retail behind?

Growing up in the 80s in Wisconsin, I was surrounded by midcentury modern furniture from the 50s, 60s and 70s. I didn’t know what the furniture was at the time, I just thought my parents had great taste. My childhood home was grounded in shag green carpet adorned with furniture from the likes of Broyhill, Lane Altavista, Kent Coffey and Adrian Pearsall. Burnt orange and olive green ashtrays, heavy gold drapes, tall lamps of ceramic and walnut decorated our home. Shelves held by steel chains housed lots of trinkets, a stereo with an 8 track player and huge floor pillows stacked below. Plants were positioned throughout the living room as well. I guess this is where it started. I was also fascinated by all the Frank Lloyd Wright homes that were prominent on many streets on the east side of Milwaukee.

When you purchased Mod Livin in 2021, you were taking over a Denver institution. How did you balance preserving what longtime customers loved while making the store your own?

I stepped into Modlivin for the first time in 2010. I felt like I was back in my parent’s living room. The store was vintage gold! The store remains that way today. Timeless design and whimsical flair perpetuate the space that has been a staple on East Colfax for generations. 25 years to be exact. I never felt there was a need to change it. The concept worked. The furniture speaks for itself. Simple, clean, thoughtful design. The focus on practicality and functionality apparent in every midcentury piece we bring into the showroom. When I started working at Modlivin in 2017, I was looking for a change from a career in corporate retail. I loved the retail environment but wanted something where I could have more one-on-one relationships with my customers. I have always loved searching for vintage finds, so when the opportunity arose to help the former owners (Jill and Erick) with their second pop-up location in RiNo, I jumped at the opportunity. From that point on, I was hooked. I formally took over the business in July 2021.

Mid-century modern has remained remarkably timeless. Why do you think this style continues to resonate with people? The midcentury modern aesthetic resonates from the people who grew up with it. It also resonates with the younger generation of Millennials, Gen Z’s, and Gen Alphas’ It has further paved way to a new generation through contemporary furniture makers like Blu Dot, Gus* Modern and Ethincraft. Furniture lines we’ve carried for two decades. 

I believe the store offers something for everyone. I have the pleasure to work with several vintage dealers who regularly give expert feedback on all my vintage finds. I try to have a conversation with every customer who walks into the store. If someone tells me they are looking for something and I am not currently selling it, you can bet I will be researching it that night.

What’s one piece that’s come through the showroom that you still think about today, whether because of its history, craftsmanship, or simply because you wish you’d kept it?

There was an exquisite pair of vintage Barcelona Chairs wrapped in golden toffee leather. The leather showed early signs of patina. Ludwig Mies van der Rohe originally designed them in 1929. The hand-cut leather panels were originally sewn together by hand. I love the chair’s strength and sleekness. The frame is inspired by Roman folding chairs, giving it a low profile and elegant silhouette. Some have referred to them as ‘a modern throne’. I mean I felt like a king every time I sat on one. 

Many people feel overwhelmed when decorating their homes. What’s the biggest mistake people make, and what advice do you give someone trying to create a space that truly reflects who they are?

I feel people can get caught up in mass-market, cookie cutter designed spaces.  These spaces are concentrated in one aesthetic – linear – homogeneous. Spaces that lack character and depth in need of personal expression. A home should be a reflection of the people who reside there. 

Whereas a well-curated home in my mind has a profound effect on mental health and overall wellbeing. It has the ability to influence mood and even stress levels through color, layout, textile selection and art. Lack of clutter and natural elements like sunlight and plants can promote calmness. Your home should be the place where you reset. 

Running a small, locally owned business isn’t always easy. Especially one that is on Colfax. What has owning Mod Livin taught you about community, resilience, and the importance of shopping local?

Colfax has a vibe all its own, with a grit and blurred charm. We’d be nothing without the community who surrounds us. There is pride here. The people who live here invest in us and other businesses alike. There are parts of Colfax that feel seemingly untouched. People want to portect the history alone. Gentrification is happening everywhere in our city. I think the East Colfax community is careful to balance progress while preserving Colfax’s authenticity and character. The new rapid transit down the center lane will hopefully bring a new crowd to our neighborhood and bolster new business expansion. Running a small business in our city is not easy. As a small business owner, I absolutely love my loyal clients, but it can be difficult to run a small brick and mortar that competes with big box retail who might offer services that I always can’t. It’s not always apples to apples.

When you’re not helping customers, where are your favorite places to spend time in Denver? Any hidden gems you find inspiring?

Some of my favorite Denver haunts: Satchels on 6th, Potager, El Fin at the recently rejuvenated, All Inn Hotel. Thin Man, and  Charlie Browns. My neighbors La Vista Hotel, Antiques, etc., Moss Pink and Lilac Coffee. Goldmine Vintage, Boss Vintage, Ten Penny and Vamp Vintage are my go-to’s for vintage clothing. South Broadway in general. I feel like it’s our little New York, urban and walkable. Pon Pon is a favorite bar of mine. It might have something to do with the midcentury furniture or the vinyl hung on the bathroom walls or the ever-changing art gallery in the back, and the coolest group of people who work there. I also love our parks and museums. Denver is truly my home.

To learn more about Mod Livin, visit them in person at 5327 E. Colfax or online at modlivin.com.