In the waning days of 2014, Shea Homes at Stepping Stone was honored with a win for Best Interior Merchandising of a Model. The Marketing and Merchandising Excellence (MAME) Award, given by the Home Builder’s Association of Metro Denver, recognized the exceptional interior design of Shea’s 3507 model, one of their collection’s smaller plans at 2,090 square feet. Perfect for first-time buyers, this plan inspired the designers of Ellis Hays Design to appeal to the tastes of a young family, using bright colors, durable materials, and modern, playful styles. As Diana Ellis, principal at the design firm, explains, “We imagined a family with a baby or toddler, so we wanted a comfortable feeling. Furnishings that weren’t super high-end, maybe even repurposed, since realistically they might even be scratched or colored on.”

The firm sought to complement the family-friendly design inherent in the floor plan. Ellis notes that Shea’s aptly named SPACES Collection really does offer “lots of different spaces that can be utilized in different ways.” She likes the way Plan 3507 is open and connected, but zoned out for a family’s different activities. “It’s great for family time,” she points out. “There’s a sitting area with a sofa where you can watch TV, but adjacent to it is a more intimate area where kids can play games, read, or do homework. And both areas are close to the kitchen, so whoever is cooking can interact with the rest of the family.”

This open concept floor plan has proven popular with customers, too. They often comment on the lack of wasted space and the ability to get three bedrooms, a loft, and main-floor office in an economically-priced home.

Of course, this is only one of Shea’s model homes available for touring at Stepping Stone. Feel free to explore them all and decide which one is your blue ribbon winner.