Q&A with Tyler Jones:

‘Vegas Modern’ developer talks architectural innovation, green building technology

Tyler Jones, co-founder and lead designer of Blue Heron, is shown Jan. 16, 2015, in the model home at Sky Terrace, one of three luxury-home communities being developed by the company in Henderson.

Tyler Jones is founder and owner of Blue Heron, which developed Sky Terrace, a desert-themed luxury community of custom homes in Henderson. The homes are packed with electronics and offer over-the-top amenities, such as elevators, outdoor kitchens and entertainment rooms with 105-inch drop-down television screens. Jones launched Blue Heron in 2004 with his father, Steve Jones, who has been in the Southern Nevada real estate business since 1989.

Where do you get your inspiration for developments like Sky Terrace?

My personal experiences and observations from a lifetime spent in Las Vegas. That is truly how the Blue Heron signature architecture was born. We call this architectural style “Vegas Modern,” and it was created in response to the lifestyle and needs of the contemporary Las Vegas resident. It complements our Mojave Desert surroundings and climate while taking full advantage of the most advanced green building technology available.

What do you hope Blue Heron accomplishes over the next five years?

It’s my goal to see “Vegas Modern” become accepted more and more into the mainstream of the housing market and for Blue Heron to remain the leader in architectural innovation and energy efficiency in Las Vegas.

Blue Heron

Tyler Jones, co-founder and lead designer of Blue Heron, is shown Jan. 16, 2015, in the model home at Sky Terrace, one of three luxury-home communities being developed by the company in Henderson. Launch slideshow »

What are some of your trademark designs?

We use the natural beauty of our surroundings — namely, Southern Nevada — to create unique homes with unparalleled indoor/outdoor relationships. Our homes feature a lot of earth tones and organic materials with forms that lend themselves to exaggerated shading elements. Our homes work with the climate in such a way that shaded spaces are created by the massing of the home and great efficiencies are gained through passive solar strategies.

Our outside spaces are designed as a continuation of interior living spaces, as opposed to just a yard. Outdoor spaces are functional, finished, detailed and connected to interior spaces.

What allowed Blue Heron to survive the recession and home foreclosure crisis?

It was difficult to sell homes when there was so much downward pressure on real estate values, and real estate — especially distressed homes — became a commodity. Our homes have always been different, and buyers who want something unique that complements their sense of personal style and sophistication come to us. This is as true now as it was during the recession. It is very difficult to find really well-designed modern homes in Las Vegas.

What is the most rewarding part of your job?

Speaking with a client and seeing them glow with pride as they describe their home. Often, clients will describe the reaction their friends and family have, and it is great to hear about how others react to the spaces and forms we have created. It’s all about providing something totally amazing and unique for each client, and it feels great when you can see how you have affected their daily life in such a meaningful and personal way.

What do you do after work?

Race motorcycles. I really enjoy the physical and mental challenges I find at the motocross track. I spend a lot of time in the office and when I’m away, my mind is always thinking about ways to improve our company. For me, motorcycles are the best way to clear my mind for a few hours and hit the reset button each weekend.

Describe your management style.

I try to lead by example, and I try to have fun at work. I think we have a good blend of creativity, discipline and hard work at Blue Heron, and I think that is a recipe for good results.

Where do you see yourself and your company in 10 years?

I’d like to be intimately involved in the day-to-day workings of Blue Heron 10 years from now, just as I have been since day one. I sincerely enjoy every minute of it and am very proud of what we have accomplished. It is my belief that we are just at the beginning of our journey as a company, and I think Blue Heron will continue to have a big impact on the way homes are defined and redefined in Las Vegas well into the future.

What is your dream job, outside of your current field?

Professional motorcycle racing is the only other job I could see myself really enjoying.

Whom do you admire and why?

Both of my parents. I was really lucky to grow up in an environment with a huge emphasis on personal and professional values. My father is one of the most grounded and genuine people I have ever met, and I grew up watching how quickly he gains people’s trust. He seems to wear his integrity on his sleeve. My mother is the most caring person on the planet, and I watch the way she brightens up the lives of those around her with her selfless energy. I strive to conduct myself in a way that lives up to those qualities, and this informs almost everything I do, both personally and professionally.

What is your biggest pet peeve?

Slow drivers.

What is something people might not know about you?

People don’t usually know that my family has been in Las Vegas since the 1920s. It is hard to find families that have been invested in the community for so long, and my roots are really important to me. Las Vegas is home to me, and I care deeply about all of the issues and opportunities we face as a community.

Anything else you want to tell us?

I would invite people to take a step back and think about the home you live in. Ask yourself if your home inspires you? Does it make you feel good? How does it impact your daily lifestyle? If you are searching for an answer to these questions, then I believe your home has failed you.

A great home will have a noticeable impact on the quality of the time you spend there. Your home should inspire a sense of well being and tranquility while meeting all of your practical needs. An exceptional home will do all of those things and add another dimension to your lifestyle and family dynamic.

I like to challenge people with these questions because a home can be so much more than people realize, and I think the industry has been very complacent over the years.

Tags: The Sunday
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