November Connect with [us]

As we enter this season of gratitude, we want to take a moment to express our sincere appreciation for your support and partnership. We are grateful to have you as part of our community, and in the spirit of this season, we’d like to share some updates about what’s happening here at Uptic Studios.

Our Proc[us]:

This month, we are focusing on the initial phase of our Proc[us]: Initial-ize.

During this critical stage, we engage in collaboration with you to clearly define the project’s scope, roles, budget, and timeline. This approach allows us to ensure that every aspect of the project aligns with your vision. By committing to thorough planning, we set the stage for a smooth and successful journey from inception to completion, fostering a strong partnership along the way.

The Initial-ize phase is more than just a series of meetings and documents; it’s where the foundation of our collaboration is built. We believe that clear communication and mutual understanding are key to a successful project, and this phase is dedicated to cultivating that relationship.

Our Projects:

We are honored to share our recent work on our Paint Brush Lane project, in Sun Valley, ID. This comprehensive service engagement saw us guiding the project through every phase, from concept development to procurement. Paint Brush Lane exemplifies our dedication to delivering high-quality, sustainable design solutions.

In this project, we employed innovative materials and techniques to minimize environmental impact while ensuring functionality and aesthetic appeal. Our team worked to integrate sustainability into every decision, resulting in a building that not only meets but exceeds the expectations of our clients.

The homeowners partnered with [us] for their first home-building journey. Principal architect Matthew Collins and principal interior designer Julie Collins brought the homeowners’ vision to life, while Taylor Stevens, our lead architectural designer, guided the design and construction process.

The home’s exterior features expansive glass windows, low-slope shed roofs, and a mix of cedar and stucco siding, accented by exposed glulam beams that pay homage to the region’s timber heritage. Inside, those same glass windows connect the living spaces with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and wildlife, creating a harmonious indoor and outdoor experience.

Our interior design and procurement team elevated the project by curating a sophisticated yet warm ambiance, featuring a palette of white oak, walnut, and hemlock woods. Custom casework and carefully selected furnishings ensure every room is both functional and beautiful, perfectly balancing natural aesthetic with contemporary design.

This home isn’t just beautiful—it’s also innovative. Highlights include:

• A radiant heating system for cozy winters and a heat recovery ventilator for year-round air quality.
• A cantilevered steel walkway, blending function and architectural flair.
• Planted lightwells that brighten the basement spaces with natural light.
• Prefabricated construction techniques in partnership with Linwood Homes, which reduced on-site build time while ensuring precision and quality.

Every element reflects a thoughtful approach to sustainability and efficiency, underscoring our commitment to creating designs that enhance both life and the environment. To view more about the project visit our project page Paintbrush Lane

Our Events:

Our recent First Friday event featuring the work of Montana-based artist Ben Mickelson was a tremendous success. Co-organized with Kelly Baker Art Advising, this exhibition showcased Ben’s latest series, which explores the changing Western landscape through watercolor and mixed-media collages.

We extend our sincere gratitude to all who attended, contributing to a vibrant discussion and appreciation for the arts. Your engagement and enthusiasm made this event truly special. For those who could not attend, be on the lookout for our next artist, installing in the spring. If you’re curious about any of Ben’s work visit his website to view and purchase any of his work Be sure to follow us on social media to stay up-to-date with our events and upcoming exhibitions.

Our People:

At Uptic Studios, we want to take a moment to highlight our most valuable asset—you—our people. We are incredibly thankful for our dedicated employees and partners. It’s an honor to collaborate with such talented individuals who share our passion for architecture, design, and sustainability.

Your creativity, commitment, and innovative thinking inspire us to continuously push the boundaries of our work. Together, we are not only shaping remarkable projects but also contributing to a more sustainable future. Thank you for being an integral part of our journey—we look forward to achieving great things together!

With gratitude,
Matthew and Julie Collins