City TRIP

Boise

Welcome to the USA. Welcome to Idaho. Welcome to Boise.

Boise is not only the capital of Idaho, it is also known as the 'City of Trees'. Situated on the Boise River, it nestles harmoniously into the surrounding mountain landscape and is widely regarded as one of the 'best places to live' in America. Boise offers a perfect blend of city life and outdoor adventure, historic architecture and eclectic culture, which is probably why it is so popular with young and old.

Want an example? In the city centre stands the Idaho State Capitol. An architecturally beautiful building, behind whose sandstone walls laws have been passed, issues debated and civil rights protected for over a century. Just a stone's throw away is Freak Alley. Started by a nearby gallery, the alley offers local artists the opportunity to paint. It began with the painting of a single alley entrance, but the murals, graffiti and collages now extend beyond the alley itself and spill over (in a positive sense) into adjacent car parks and pathways. There really is a lot to discover: Artists add new artworks every year, creating an ever-growing and changing experience for everyone.

Boise's city centre and surrounding districts are booming. New construction – or at least renovation – is happening everywhere! This boom and the popularity of the city is also due to the two opposite friends Clint Robertson and Luke Caldwell. Both are also known as the Boise Boys. In the reality show "Flipping in Idaho" they renovate houses in the greater Boise area. While Clint is responsible for the remodelling and construction, Luke takes care of the design. Not least because of their friendship, their great interplay, their warmth and their humour, the Boise Boys enjoy great popularity – far beyond the US borders.
Luke was as approachable and likeable as he is in the series when we visited him in his workshop. And so we were very grateful that he took the time to tell us in an interview about his passion for (mid-century) design, his love for his wife and children and upcoming projects.

Boise is a really nice city, not too big yet, but not too small anymore. A great mix of urban and rural. Practically a feel-good place: for recreational athletes, enthusiastic hikers, outdoor fans and nature lovers, and for people who don't want to miss the urban atmosphere with its numerous restaurants, bars and cafés.

And how do you actually pronounce Boise? Clint means "Boy-Z". But if you ask Luke, it's pronounced "Boy-C"...

USA, May 2022. | All words and photos by The Sturgheons.