From Brain to Home: Crafting Timeless Spaces with Upwall Design

At Âme Atendre, we believe that the things we surround ourselves with should serve a deeper purpose. In this episode of On the Table With Ashley, we sat down with father-son duo Michael and Gage Upwall of Upwall Design. Based in Park City, Utah, they combine artistry and craftsmanship to design homes that seamlessly blend with the landscape, creating timeless spaces that enhance the lives of their residents.

The Upwall Legacy: Michael and Gage’s Journey in Architecture

Michael Upwall, founder of Upwall Design, blends his understanding of Utah’s unique geography with his architectural expertise. After completing his Masters of Architecture in 1991, he founded Upwall Design, emphasizing a home’s natural connection to the land. His designs are influenced by the Craftsman Movement, where homes are crafted to grow organically from the earth. Gage grew up immersed in the world of design, assisting his father from a young age. His background in photography and filmmaking brought an artistic edge to his architecture, which he continues to merge with the Upwall legacy as a senior designer. Gage’s approach celebrates both the beauty and function of a home, carrying forward the family’s commitment to timeless design.

Designing Homes for Extreme Environments

Michael and Gage shared the challenges of designing homes in harsh climates and rugged terrains, common in Utah’s landscape. Their expertise in creating homes that withstand extreme weather while blending with nature is a cornerstone of Upwall Design. This philosophy mirrors Âme Atendre’s commitment to designing products that are as functional as they are beautiful, standing the test of time. Upwalls homes are a perfect balance of form, function, and harmony with their surroundings.

The Design Process: Combining Artistry and Function

A key part of Michael and Gage’s design process is balancing creativity with practical living spaces. Both Michael and Gage believe architecture should tell a story while meeting the practical needs of the inhabitants. Their designs are collaborative, ensuring each home is personalized and reflective of the clients’ values and lifestyles. Just like Âme Atendre, Upwall focuses on meaningful, functional design that creates lasting connections in the spaces one inhabits.