In Studio With BOSS Architecture
BOSS Architecture has helped shape Denver’s modern design landscape with a philosophy rooted in simplicity, material honesty, and collaboration. Founded by longtime friends Kevin Stephenson and Chris Davis, the firm is known for its refined approach—where restraint meets warmth, and the best idea always wins. Their work spans residential, commercial, and hospitality spaces, each project defined by thoughtful precision and a deep respect for context. In this conversation, Stephenson and Davis share insights into their creative partnership, the evolution of their practice, and the principles that continue to guide their work.
FF: What drew each of you to architecture, and how did your paths cross? Was there a defining moment when you realized you’d be good partners?
CD: Kevin and I met in architecture school at Bozeman—back when we were babies. We became fast friends, shared the thesis design award, graduated, worked together in Chicago, and then in Denver for nearly 15 years before starting BOSS Architecture almost two decades ago.
We have the luxury of a lifelong friendship. Our dynamic—spanning from work-wife to devil’s advocate, business partner to sibling—is tested, tried, and pretty much bulletproof. It’s also essential to running a successful architecture firm.
Chris Davis
FF: BOSS Architecture has become one of the most influential modern architecture studios in Denver. What defines your approach, and what sets you apart?
CD: Hard work and effort.
We keep our heads down.
We consistently strive to exceed expectations.
We manage our relationships well.
And most importantly, we try to be excellent listeners.
Kevin Stephenson
FF: How do you navigate the dynamic between collaboration and individual creative vision in your partnership?
CD: Our firm’s mantra is “the best idea wins.” There is no individual creative vision in our world.
FF: Your work has a strong sense of materiality and precision. What materials or design elements do you find yourselves continually drawn to?
CD: Timeless ingredients of the earth—stone, steel, concrete, wood, and glass.
FF: Can you share a project that was particularly transformative for the firm—one that changed the way you think about architecture?
CD: Working with Justin Cucci on most of his projects—Linger, Ophelia’s, El Five, Vital Root, his personal residence, and his office—exposed us to one of the most creative humans ever to walk the planet.
Collaborating with Justin challenged and rewired our desire to have everything perfectly resolved. From those experiences, we coined the term “intentional misalignment”—which has since become a goal for all of our projects.
FF: What role does Denver play in shaping your work? How does designing in Colorado differ from other places?
CD: Denver is the perfect place to be a young architect. It’s a completely different city now than when BOSS started.
It has attracted a population with progressive desires—art, culture, diversity, food, music, and space—which has allowed BOSS to make a real impact on the fabric of many places.
FF: If you weren’t architects, what alternative paths do you think you’d have pursued?
KS: Maker and inventor.
CD: Painter or musician. (Or, if I could get someone to pay me to be a professional snorkeler in the Adriatic, that would be fucking amazing.)
FF: The best spaces often evoke a feeling beyond their function. How do you approach designing for atmosphere rather than just aesthetics?
CD: That’s a very true observation—and one we articulate to all our clients.
For example, the three-legged stool of any successful restaurant consists of:
- Amazing food
- Excellent service
- Authentic ambiance
To achieve that, we pay attention to design and details that extend far beyond the architecture.
FF: Is there a particular book, building, or designer that has had a lasting impact on your philosophy of design?
CD: I am obsessed with all things John Lautner.
KS: Zumthor, Niemeyer, Scarpa, Neutra—there are so many to choose from.
FF: Your projects balance restraint with warmth. How do you ensure modernism doesn’t become cold or impersonal?
CD: To BOSS, the imperfection of human touch is far preferred over engineered perfection. That mindset manifests authentic warmth—hopefully in all of our work.
FF: How do you see residential architecture evolving in the next decade? What shifts do you anticipate or hope to see?
CD: Residential architecture is becoming overly complicated—and, as a result, overly expensive.
BOSS is working hard to encourage a return to simplicity, embracing the nostalgia of basic (but beautiful) ideas.
FF: What’s a misconception people have about architects or the design process that you wish more people understood?
CD: That cigarettes, martinis, and old fashions are flowing from the office bar cart every afternoon at 2:00.
(The reality? We wait until at least 3:00… on most days.)
FF: Describe your ideal creative day outside of work—where are you, what are you doing, and what’s inspiring you?
CD: Traveling anywhere with my wife and kids.
KS: Escaping to our mountain property. The isolation and disconnection from my work and city life bring me back to full power.
FF: What’s next for BOSS Architecture? Are there any dream projects, materials, or concepts you’re excited to explore?
CD: It sounds stupid, but… we are living the dream now.
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Photos by Luke Gottlieb of Victor of Valencia