VelvÆre is a husband and wife led Vermont-based company owned and co-founded by Scott and Amina Rank.
Scott Rank, PE, ARC, LEED AP
OWNER, CO-FOUNDER
Scott is the technical wizard behind our architecture and construction process. A Stowe native, he developed an affinity for the outdoors that inspired his passion for sustainability while attending Northeastern University’s Engineering co-op program that, upon graduating, led him out West.
From globe-trotting stints in New Zealand and South America to humanitarian projects in Togo with Engineers Without Borders, Scott honed his passion for green building systems at the University of Colorado's School of Architecture. His commitment to sustainability deepened while working as a construction manager for a non-profit, ensuring best building practices for affordable housing and community development. Scott's career has been a diverse blueprint to the founding of Velvære.
Scott is a Professional Engineer and Licensed Architect in the state of Vermont and Colorado. He is a licensed General Contractor and LEED Accredited Professional.
AMINA RANK
OWNER, CO-FOUNDER
Amina brings forth a refined design sense cultivated through years in hospitality, spanning complex site development and crafting intimate outdoor spaces at prestigious venues such as the Four Seasons and Auberge resorts. Her Master's degrees in Landscape Architecture and Urban & Regional Planning from the University of Colorado took her to Shanghai and the Bodrum Peninsula, deepening a passion for sustainable communities.
Amina's love for skiing was born among the mountainous terrains of New Mexico and Colorado. Today, she finds solace on Vermont's Mount Mansfield slopes, often with her kids in tow. Whether lost in the tunes of Brett Dennen or relishing a tranquil morning with a warm drink, Amina is a powerhouse of creativity, infusing every aspect of home life with her boundless imagination.
Our Story
We are husband and wife, father and mother, business partners, and dreamers. VelvÆre is our expression in the world to redefine “home”.
Our journey began serendipitously, sparked by a chance encounter during a fire drill at the University of Colorado. It wasn't long before our shared interests in wellness, outdoor adventures, and a passion for building sustainably brought us together. This shared vision fueled our aspiration to reimagine the built environment.
Amidst rapid growth in Denver, we embraced the challenge to conceive and construct our own home, the Tandem House. Shaped by a unique site and driven by innovation and efficiency, we hustled to create a haven that embodied a healthy family lifestyle. Encouraged by the joy and fulfillment, we replicated our success, investing independently to deliver yet another LEED Platinum residence to a family keen on the environment, energy savings, and an active lifestyle.
As the pandemic unfolded, we sought a path of authenticity and connection, leading us toward a simpler, family-centric life in Vermont.
Embracing Scott’s nostalgic childhood memories and the warmth of our cherished visits, we found solace in Vermont's Nordic way and tight-knit community. We gained profound insights into the transformative benefits from daily outdoor adventures and the landscape’s abundance; significantly enhancing our overall well-being.
Today, our life and our work merge seamlessly, each enriching the other. As we pioneer forward, our journey continues, driven by our commitment to harmonize living spaces with nature and to create homes that are not just dwellings but sanctuaries; supporting better health for you, your family, and the planet.
“Architecture is an expression of values – the way we build is a reflection of the way we live.”
-Norman Foster
Our Values
For us sustainability is more than a buzzword; it's a way of life
Sustainability isn't just a term we throw around; it's the foundation upon which we build. It's not a trend but a guiding principle that threads through every wall, every design choice, and every decision we make. It’s ingrained in our daily practices and influences how we shape living spaces.
Vermont - where the Nordic lifestyle is alive and present
In the heart of Vermont lies a lifestyle that echoes the essence of the Nordic way. Here, amidst nature’s embrace, we draw inspiration for our design philosophy. The tranquility, the connectedness to the land, and the mindfulness that define the Nordic lifestyle infuse our work, creating spaces that resonate with the serene spirit of Vermont.
There is a strong correlation between well-designed spaces and mental health; One’s surroundings greatly influence their overall health and well-being
Your home is more than a structure; it’s an extension of your well-being. We believe that well-designed spaces contribute to mental health and overall vitality. Every corner, every beam, and every breath of fresh air is intentionally crafted to nurture your mental and physical health.