Yellowstone

UNDER THE BIG SKY OF MONTANA, A YOUNG FAMILY WRITES AND ACTS OUT THEIR OWN SCRIPT

- KRISSA ROSSBUND

The hit TV series Yellowstone leaves its audience enthralled with the drama that unfolds among the ruggedness of western rural life. But Kirk and Jenni Fernandez set their minds on building a home in Montana long before streaming enthusiasts found charm in the destination that's a sharp contrast from the lights, skyscrapers, fast cars, and high fashion of cities.

With their primary residence in Los Angeles, the couple, who were both raised in Cody, Wyoming, knew they would feel most at home surrounded by mountains, expanses of unfenced land, and crisp air. After all, the natural elements support the outdoor lifestyle that they know so well.

"The show has drawn attention to the region and popularized a modern western look," Kirk says. "Our home is 30 minutes from Yellowstone National Park and where the show is filmed, but we were sold on Montana long before the show. We fly-fish, ski, and love the mountains, so for five months each year, we live in the environment that we grew up with."

While Kirk and Jenni did not use the show as inspiration for their vacation home, television is where they discovered designer Lonni Paul before researching her and liking her updated approach to classic style. The Los Angeles-based talent, whose work tends to lean toward a modern aesthetic, channeled the role of traditionalist, much like when an actor steps into the character of a ranch owner after playing a city slicker for a previous part. Paul's comfortable scheme was a lesson in blending: rough textures of stone and reclaimed wood with the femininity of crystal lighting fixtures and dainty florals, rich tones of handsome gray with the barely-there politeness of pale pink, fresh textiles with storied antiques.