Timeless Architectural Designs for Modern Mountain Homes

The Campbell residence in Asheville, N.C., exemplifies the "mountain modern" style, a design trend gaining traction nationwide. Designed by Living Stone Design & Build, the house is strategically placed on a steeply sloping lot, with its front facade facing the top of the slope and the rear overlooking the road and the primary view. The design prioritizes conforming to the land's topography, making the house wider than deep to minimize its environmental impact. Drawing inspiration from the region's indigenous Craftsman-style homes, the residence emphasizes structural integrity and the use of natural materials. Local fieldstone and cedar, both stained and painted, are prominent, alongside heavy-timber post-and-beam construction and eave brackets, which are characteristic of the Craftsman aesthetic. To integrate a modern sensibility, the design incorporates clean lines and deep overhangs, which also serve the practical purpose of solar gain protection. Notably, the absence of corner boards and the use of mitered corners provide a full, clean reveal. HardiePlank paneling was utilized for the upper exterior walls and soffits as a cost-saving measure, while the mitered corners and stained accents were intentional design splurges. The blend of Craftsman and modern styles addresses the preferences of clients relocating from regions where modern design is more prevalent, creating a home that is both traditional in its essence and contemporary in its details. The exterior features a massive masonry presence, achieved with cost-efficiency in mind. The chimney at the rear elevation rests on a partial concrete foundation, saving costs and avoiding encroachment on the carport space. Steel support was integrated into the screened porch's flooring to manage the load from the chimney and fireplace. Additional exterior highlights include heavy cedar post-and-beam timber brackets beneath a triptych of windows on the front facade's bump-out. This bump-out houses a seating nook with built-in benches and a tabletop, designed to replace a traditional dining room. Meals are taken here or at a dining table with fold-down leaves, which functions as a credenza when not in use, optimizing space within the shallow house design. Both the nook's tabletop and the dining table were crafted by one of the homeowners from reclaimed boxcar wood. The architectural plan also incorporates two private home offices, each with its own porch, situated at the rear of the house to provide solitude and scenic views for work. Given Asheville's emphasis on outdoor living, a third, west-facing screened porch was included for family use, complete with an outdoor kitchen. Further cost-saving measures were implemented throughout the interior. An oversized barn door was constructed from scrap wood by the trim carpenter, avoiding the expense of custom-made options. In the master bedroom, prefabricated wood sheets from Home Depot were used for an accent wall, a more economical choice than individual wood pieces. Blocking within the wall during framing allowed for floating shelves, reducing the need for traditional end tables. The children's rooms featured carpeting and bunks built from scrap wood to manage expenses. A woodworking shop off the carport was also incorporated to cater to the homeowners' specific interests. The design, with significant homeowner input, resulted in a residence that supports family activities, work, entertaining, and aging in place, all within an aesthetically pleasing framework. #ModernCraftsman #MountainModern #HomeDesign #SlopingLot #NaturalMaterials #CostSavingMeasures #OutdoorLiving #SustainableDesign #AshevilleArchitecture

The 'Mountain Modern' interior design style refreshes traditional decor by blending natural elements with contemporary aesthetics, creating a sophisticated yet rustic ambiance. This style emphasizes expansive windows, light interiors, and a connection to nature, moving away from the dark and heavy look of old-timey ski lodges. Originating in the early 2000s, it arose from a desire for a more contemporary approach to mountain homes, using local materials in modern ways while retaining a hint of Western living. Unlike stark modernism, mountain modern incorporates soft edges and comfortable textures, aligning with various farmhouse styles like rustic, Scandinavian, coastal, and modern farmhouse. To achieve this look, an emphasis is placed on a natural color palette. Earth tones such as browns, beiges, tans, grays, whites, blacks, and greens are recommended, or a monochromatic scheme using these hues. The design draws inspiration from the surrounding environment, encouraging homeowners to look outside for color guidance. The selection of materials is also crucial, with a strong recommendation to source local stones and woods, which serve as foundational elements for the interior. Incorporating natural materials like reclaimed wood, stone, and metal, along with elements like wood beams, natural-fiber rugs, and stone fireplaces, enhances the authentic mountain modern feel. Texture plays a significant role in softening the contemporary lines and creating a cozy atmosphere. Materials like mohair, hide, leather, wool, and alpaca are suggested as accents in muted colors. Items such as woven jute, faux animal fur, and soft cotton throw pillows are ideal for adding warmth and tactile interest without overwhelming the space. The overall approach is to start with a modern design base and then integrate earthy, rustic pieces to strike a balance between contemporary and natural aesthetics, aiming for an elevated version of rustic decor rather than an overtly camp or hunting lodge style. Maximizing natural light and showcasing views are essential components of mountain modern design. This involves keeping windows unobstructed to allow ample light and views, even if the home isn't located in a mountainous region. The style often features vaulted ceilings, large windows, and open-plan layouts to enhance the sense of space and connection to the outdoors. Strategic use of metal is also key; clean-lined metal hardware for doors, cabinets, and drapery rods, as well as contemporary metal light fixtures, contribute to the modern aspect of the design, ensuring a cohesive blend of natural warmth and contemporary sophistication. #MountainModern #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #RusticChic #NaturalElements #ContemporaryDesign #EarthTones #LocalMaterials #TexturalDesign

This article presents a virtual tour of 16 distinct ski cabins, each offering a unique design approach and integration with its natural surroundings. The selection highlights diverse architectural styles, from traditional chalets to modern, energy-efficient structures, across various snowy landscapes in North America and Europe. The first featured cabin, Nooq House in Whitefish, Montana, designed by Montana Creative architecture + design, showcases Scandinavian influences with its gabled sections, suspended fireplace, cathedral ceilings, and expansive windows that frame the Rocky Mountains. Owners Alex Strohl and Andrea Dabene offer it for rent while working on another project. Following this, the Alpine Noir chalet in Mount Hood, Oregon, conceived by Casework, Keystone Architecture Planning & Project Management, and Ethan Beck Homes, draws inspiration from Amsterdam canal houses with its tall, skinny silhouette and custom soft black facade. The interior features a reverse layout with the living space at the top, emphasizing a "gezellig" (cozy) atmosphere with a black brick fireplace, fur throws, and a bespoke floral sectional. In Andermatt, Switzerland, Nossenhaus, a 17th-century cottage, underwent a revival by Jonathan Tuckey Design and Ruedi Kreienbühl. The renovation removed newer additions, restoring its original character while incorporating modern elements like an energy-efficient wood-tiled roof and larch planking. The Gilbert House near Whistler and Blackcomb ski areas in British Columbia, by Evoke International Design, features a vertical layout on a steep site, clad in concrete and matte black cedar. Its bright interiors, with pale oak planks, direct focus to the forest views through floor-to-ceiling windows, complemented by a cantilevered upper floor with a terrace. La Cabin Ride & Sleep, an A-Frame in Lac-Beauport, Québec, designed by Marie-Catherine P. Émond of M4 Architecture, is a 256-square-foot structure built by Nick Dignard. It features abundant natural light, window openings on the roof, and custom-built furniture. Next, the Skigard Hytte near Lillehammer, Norway, by Mork Ulnes Architects, is an unconventional log cabin using "skigard" split-rail construction. It is raised on columns, has a sod and grass roof, an oculus skylight, and a pine interior. The Lookout House near Lake Tahoe, California, by Faulkner Architects, is a contemporary cabin on a steep slope. It boasts a fire-resistant steel plate roof, insulated concrete walls, radiant-heated basalt floors, and a red-tinted glass column, creating a modern aesthetic with an American Southwest influence. Another British Columbia entry is the Solo House, an off-grid Passive House designed by Perkins & Will, intended as a pilot for an eco-friendly alpine settlement. It incorporates a steel roof, solar panels, wool-insulated walls, and locally harvested Douglas fir interiors. The Whitepod Eco-Luxury Hotel in Monthey, Switzerland, by Montalba Architects, offers prefabricated larch-clad chalets alongside geodesic domes. These low-impact structures are energy self-sufficient, featuring polished concrete flooring and distinct day and night zones. The Little Black House in Fayston, Vermont, designed by Elizabeth Herrmann Architecture + Design, is a compact 1,120-square-foot cabin near Sugarbush. Its black-stained exterior contrasts with a stripped-down interior of white walls and pale wood floors, utilizing local ash wood and large windows. In Québec, the Poisson Blanc cabin by Naturehumaine Architects is a monochrome, compact structure embedded on a slope, with white walls and ceilings and maple veneer, raw concrete, and ceramic tile accents. The Ejford Cabin on Hallvardøy Island, Norway, by Snorre Stinessen Architecture, features triple-glazed glass walls, capitalizing on passive solar conditions and thick insulation. It comprises two volumes, one for living and one for sleeping and a sauna, offering views of the fjord and mountains. The Z House in Camporosso, Italy, by GEZA, is a holiday home on a steep hilltop, featuring two interconnected concrete and wood-screened gable volumes that step down the slope, blending with the alpine vernacular. The interior utilizes Serizzo white granite, dark gray-painted European oak, and Swiss pine. A remodeled 1960s Swiss chalet by Frundgallina in the Swiss Jura Mountains is a 100% energy-efficient cabin with vertically laid fir planks and a folded stainless steel roof, characterized by four distinct entrances and integrating the outdoors. Finally, the Lake Cottage in Ontario, Canada, by UUFIE Architects, is a reinterpreted tree house with a steeply pitched, charred cedar-clad structure and a black steel roof. It features whimsical interior elements like a wood-burning fireplace with a house-shaped surround, a maple log staircase, and partially mirrored glass walls for camouflage and expansive views. #SkiCabins #ModernArchitecture #SustainableDesign #MountainHomes #InteriorDesign #ArchitecturalInnovation #WinterRetreats #PrefabHomes #PassiveHouse

The article presents a curated collection of 20 modern country houses, emphasizing their diverse approaches to achieving rest and relaxation through design. These homes, characterized by rustic charm, natural light, indoor-outdoor living, and exposed wood beams, blend traditional accents with contemporary aesthetics. The selection highlights various architectural styles and regional influences, ranging from a transformed English-style manor in Connecticut to a Brazilian modular home nestled in nature, and a minimalist guesthouse in Sonoma Valley, California. Each featured property showcases unique design solutions tailored to its environment and the homeowners' preferences. Key examples include a Connecticut manor updated by Sanchez+Coleman Studio with a sophisticated black, white, and green palette, and a Brittany-style château in Westchester, New York, renovated by Amy Courtney Design to incorporate Japandi aesthetics and Scandinavian minimalism while preserving its 1930s craftsmanship. Rodrigo Ohtake's Brazilian modular home demonstrates an innovative use of steel prisms arranged around a central open-plan living space, connecting seamlessly with the surrounding forest. In Aspen, Rowland+Broughton reimagined a 1990s stone-and-glass retreat, enhancing views and integrating contemporary furnishings with existing oak millwork. Studio Arthur Casas designed a recreational complex for a horse farm in Brazil, featuring indoor and outdoor spaces for entertainment and accommodation, while Olson Kundig and Erica Colpitts Interior Design transformed a mid-century home in North Vancouver, British Columbia, drawing inspiration from the peaceful landscape and British aesthetic. Further explorations include Richard Shemtov’s Southampton retreat designed by Sawyer|Berson, modeled after traditional gable-roof barns with a rigorously pared-down style. Amalia Graziani's Hudson Valley farm restoration honors the property's past, focusing on preserving its natural beauty. In Jackson, Wyoming, Messana O’Rorke and Ankeny Architecture and Design created a mountain retreat blending the American West's past and present through stained cedar and stone volumes connected by glass-enclosed bridges. Aidlin Darling Design crafted a single-story modern country house with hilltop views in Northern California, prioritizing efficiency and accessibility. Other notable designs include Jan Henrik Jansen's unconventional round house in Denmark, SPG Architects' modern update of a Cape Cod residence, and Andreas Martin-Löf's playful weekend home near Stockholm featuring an infinity pool as a reflective element. The compilation also showcases a Michigan lake house by Desai Chia Architecture, noted for its glassy pavilion design that interacts with a cherry orchard and a bluff. Atelier Carvalho Araújo's minimalist yet rustic home in Portugal effectively masters a tricky site with a meandering stream. Nathanael Dorent and Lily Jencks conceived a stone-clad modern rustic country house in Scotland, known for its unexpected design. Nani Marquina's Costa Brava retreat serves as a collector’s paradise, with a whitewashed simplicity providing a backdrop for various collected ephemera. Architect Mathias Klotz designed a pair of cottages in Chile, characterized by clean-lined modernism and archetypal forms. Mork Ulnes Architects and Office of Charles de Lisle created a minimalist guesthouse in Sonoma Valley, California, comprising three stepped volumes. Finally, Hawk & Co., in collaboration with Brandon Architects, designed an indoor-outdoor oasis along the California Coast, blending rustic charm with industrial edge and naturalistic materials. The article provides a comprehensive overview of how modern country houses leverage design to offer tranquil and inspiring escapes. #ModernCountryHouses #ArchitecturalDesign #InteriorDesign #RusticCharm #IndoorOutdoorLiving #SustainableDesign #WeekendRetreats #ResidentialArchitecture #HomeRenovation

Marie Turner Carson of M. Elle Design and architect Bob White of Forest Studio collaborated to create a unique family getaway at Victory Ranch, near Deer Valley, Utah. The clients desired a "family camp" atmosphere, which was interpreted not as a rustic, traditional lodge, but as a luxurious yet comfortable design focusing on community, activities, and nature. The home's unconventional layout diverges from a typical lodge, featuring guest rooms designed as individual "cabins" to accommodate a multi-generational family and their guests. White's design emphasizes breaking down the traditional "big box" lodge into a compound of structures that integrate with the rolling landscape and are arranged around connecting courtyards. This innovative approach optimizes views while ensuring privacy and a continuous sense of discovery throughout the property. White conducted space planning on-site to frame views perfectly and envisioned the new build as a historic home that evolved over generations, bringing an authentic feel to the design. The collaboration with local builder Ivan Broman resulted in a structure that serves as an ideal backdrop for family gatherings, allowing everyone to feel at home with their own space, while also incorporating inventive and thoughtful details. The main entry of the house offers an intimate feel with a lower ceiling, providing a glimpse into a central courtyard rather than a dramatic, expansive entrance. This design choice encourages exploration and a gradual appreciation of the home's features. The living room, a central and open area, is anchored by a monumental plaster fireplace, which provides a visual anchor amidst painted boards. Steel elements like a sculptural wood wall and door casings balance the room. From the living room, residents can enjoy views of the river and a courtyard with a fire pit, creating a sense of connection to the outdoors. To enhance coziness, the living room features layered wool rugs and various textures in its furnishings, arranged in two sections for versatile seating. The dining room, notably dark and dramatic, is positioned on a cantilevered hallway that acts as a bridge connecting different areas of the house. This unique placement offers a slightly disorienting yet engaging experience, constantly relating to the exterior landscape. An outdoor dining area complements the interior, featuring a custom-made table large enough to seat at least 16 guests, mirroring the indoor dining capacity with flexible seating options. The kitchen is strategically located at the furthest point of the house to maximize views, offering a 180-degree panorama. Inspired by Edwin Lutyens' designs, it includes a round island and cabinetry that reinterpret Alpine style. Beyond the primary living spaces, the home includes a bar with reclaimed wine barrels and walnut panels for guests to carve their names, and a basement speakeasy, embracing a cozy, wood-clad Alpine aesthetic. The main bedroom offers serenity with a muted palette and stone walls that seamlessly blend the interior with the surrounding environment. For younger guests, there are tastefully designed bunkrooms, one with rush beds for girls and another with cot-like beds and canvas curtains for boys, evoking a summer camp feel. The design team meticulously sourced items like vintage trunks to complete the authentic, yet refined, camp aesthetic, ensuring every detail contributes to the overall theme of a luxurious and comfortable family retreat. #FamilyGetaway #LuxuryDesign #MountainHome #UtahArchitecture #MElleDesign #ForestStudio #CustomHome #InteriorDesign #AlpineStyle

The Illuminus Group, a development firm, collaborated with CLB Architects to design a residential property in a private enclave in Park City, Utah. The objective was to create a timeless, elegant residence that offered extensive amenities while harmonizing with the natural surroundings, thereby setting a new standard for thoughtful design in the region. The 4.9-acre site, situated on a steep slope in the Wasatch Mountains at 8,500 feet above sea level, provides commanding views of the Park City Mountain resort and the valley. CLB Architects, known for their experience in high-end mountain residences, approached the landscape with careful consideration. Their primary goal was to make the 18,000-square-foot house, named Monitor's Rest, as compact as possible to prevent it from sprawling extensively into the forest. The design incorporates an L-shape plan, built into the hillside, making it appear smaller than its actual size upon approach. A central courtyard provides a serene entry point, offering views of the sky and allowing natural light into the home. The exterior features a material palette of Croatian limestone, shou sugi ban cedar cladding, steel-framed windows, and a copper roof, chosen for their durability against harsh winters. The interior layout is designed to contrast with the enclosed courtyard. A limestone foyer serves as the central hub, directing visitors to the primary bedroom suite and office on one side, and the living and dining areas on the other. Straight ahead, a dramatic atrium with forest-facing windows leads down to guest bedrooms and a bowling alley. Common areas, including a large patio with an indoor-outdoor pool, are oriented southwest, offering a strong connection to the slope and environment. The property also features ski-in/ski-out access with a dedicated locker room, while spa and sports facilities are discreetly located in the back. For the interiors, CLB collaborated with David Ostrander, co-founder and creative director of Iluminus. A key challenge was to maintain a focused aesthetic despite the house's vastness. This was achieved through a consistent material selection, including hemlock ceilings, oak floors, and walls clad in oak or Croatian limestone. The primary bathroom exemplifies this pared-down approach with its Zen-like composition of wood, stone, and black metal, featuring narrow mirrors that allow views of the trees and a freestanding wood tub for a sense of calm. The adjacent bedroom similarly employs restrained design with oak paneling and custom furniture. A distinctive feature of the property is a 19-by-19-foot tower room at the back of the ground floor. This pop-up perch, inspired by national park watchtowers, offers 360-degree views and serves as a whimsical yet sophisticated retreat. It includes a wraparound balcony, a floating fireplace, a rosewood table, and a Mrirt rug, designed to be both fun and refined for all ages. Overall, Monitor's Rest successfully integrates extensive amenities and luxurious living with a deep respect for its mountainous setting, elevating the architectural standard in the Park City community. #ResidentialDesign #LuxuryHomes #MountainArchitecture #ParkCityUtah #CLBArchitects #SustainableDesign #InteriorDesign #WasatchMountains #ArchitecturalInnovation

Providence Builders, a prominent custom home builder, has earned its third consecutive Cityview Magazine Best of the Best Award for Custom Home Builder – Over $1 Million. This recognition highlights the company's commitment to exceptional design, craftsmanship, and livability, as exemplified by their recent Parade of Homes showcase. The featured home, a 3,792-square-foot Mountain Modern Ranch in the Tennessee National development, includes an 830-square-foot garage, three bedrooms, and four baths. This project embodies Providence Builders' philosophy of blending comfort and sophistication. The architectural style emphasizes clean geometry and natural textures, incorporating authentic stone, wood, and glass. Upon entry, a wide front porch sets the tone, while inside, a vaulted great room with timber trusses and a natural stone fireplace creates a grand yet grounded atmosphere. Expansive 10-foot multi-slide glass doors seamlessly connect the interior with the outdoors, leading to a covered patio and sunroom, ideal for entertaining and enjoying the landscape. The design prioritizes single-level living for comfort, accessibility, and flow. Each space transitions naturally, from the great room to the kitchen, and onward to the sunroom and patio. The kitchen is designed for both functionality and aesthetic appeal, featuring professional-grade appliances, ample prep space, a large island, rich wood cabinetry, Dekton surfaces, and subtle lighting. These elements contribute to a warm and inviting space suitable for both elaborate dinner parties and casual family meals. Diane Bills, co-founder of Providence Builders, emphasizes that single-level living is about intentional design, where every detail, from sightlines to materials and lighting, is chosen to enhance daily living. Providence Builders distinguishes itself through its design-build model, where architecture, construction, and interior design are integrated from conception. This collaborative approach ensures consistency and clear communication, translating the client's vision into a precise execution. The process begins with understanding the client's lifestyle, which then informs the home's design. Ron Bills, president and founder, leverages his background in aerospace engineering and corporate leadership to maintain a disciplined approach to precision, ensuring that plans are detailed to the millimeter to control quality. Transparency is a key aspect of their process, with meticulously documented budgets and regular client reports through the BuilderTrend platform, offering updates, photos, and progress tracking. Craftsmanship is central to Providence Builders' reputation, with job sites known for organization and pride. Long-term trade partners contribute engineering-level precision to every detail, from the structural and sculptural beam work in the great room to the seamless alignment of trim transitions. This culture of respect and shared pride ensures consistent quality, leading many clients to return for multiple projects. Interior design, guided by Diane Bills and Anne White, features a soft, natural palette of warm woods, creamy whites, brushed metals, and subtle stone tones, creating a serene, connected, and timeless aesthetic. The focus is on creating livable spaces, balancing spa-like luxury with practical comfort in bathrooms and designing bedrooms as tranquil retreats. The sunroom, with its broad windows, epitomizes comfort and calm. Despite receiving numerous awards, Providence Builders measures success by the relationships cultivated with clients, team members, and the community. The company maintains a community-minded approach, extending beyond construction to foster lasting friendships and support for neighbors. This philosophy underscores the belief that building homes is about creating meaningful, lasting structures and relationships. Looking ahead, Providence Builders continues its mission to elevate everyday living through precision, beauty, and heart, ensuring each new project reflects the unique story of its inhabitants and the surrounding environment, thereby building more than a house—they build a home. #CustomHomeBuilder #MountainModernRanch #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #Craftsmanship #DesignBuild #LuxuryLiving #TennesseeNational #AwardWinning

The Summit Estate is a project located in Park City, Utah, combining modern architecture with a fun, eclectic aesthetic to create an elevated yet relaxed living experience. The design approach focuses on integrating the clients' bold preferences while maintaining the signature Studio McGee style. The entryway of the home establishes this unique aesthetic immediately. To counteract a potentially cold initial impression, large sections of drywall are covered with textural stone and raw timber, creating visual interest. A round table centrally located in the space promotes flow, complemented by additional seating along the room's edges. The art selections within the entryway serve as an initial introduction to the clients' distinctive and playful taste, highlighting the creative freedom given to the design team. The home features multiple bars, reflecting its design for hosting and entertaining. The first bar, situated near the entrance, showcases a color-blocked design using a velvety brown and a teal-tinged blue/black, seamlessly connecting to the main living area to facilitate social gatherings. The living room presented a design challenge, requiring a layout that maximizes views, provides comfortable seating around the fireplace, and encourages conversation, all while ensuring easy access to the kitchen and dining room. The design team curated a mood board featuring sophisticated pieces with an edgy appeal, such as a plaid-covered curved sofa, armchairs with sloped arms, and a coffee table with organic, chunky legs, to meet these requirements. In the kitchen and pantry area, a dark green Lacanche range serves as a central design element, blending with the cabinetry to create a statement. A plaster range hood directs attention upward, while a wood band connects exposed shelves. To balance an off-center range, the pantry door is designed to integrate discreetly into the cabinetry. The kitchen island features dramatic soapstone counters, providing ample seating with six barstools. The dining room is anchored by a custom-sized Orville Dining Table from McGee & Co., accommodating 12 guests. Upholstered benches are used on one side, offering a break in height and softening the space. A wooden hutch at the table's foot displays kitchen and dining accessories. The primary suite exemplifies the blend of modern design with classic elements. The walls are covered in dark charcoal grasscloth, complemented by wood beams on the ceiling and a sophisticated marble fireplace. A dark wood four-poster bed is the room's focal point, surrounded by an assortment of furniture chosen for its unique details. The en-suite bathroom features a green-stained vanity that highlights the wood grain, fitting the mountain home aesthetic, and unlacquered brass fixtures that are designed to develop a natural patina over time. Guest Bedroom One is noted for its ample natural light from floor-to-ceiling windows and walls painted in Coriander Seed by Benjamin Moore, a sophisticated brown that acts as a neutral yet references the mountain landscape. The office is designed with a moody mountain aesthetic, featuring dark-stained wood wrapping the entire space, including herringbone flooring and vertical paneling on walls and ceiling. This wood paneling extends beyond the steel-frame windows to the exterior. The office also displays eclectic items like a plaid settee, vintage golf clubs, and a worn football. The mudroom and laundry room are designed with rich, wheat-toned walls (Rattan by Benjamin Moore) and rough-hewn wood tones consistent with the home’s overall design, emphasizing their utilitarian function within a luxury mountain home. Bar No. Two and the Wine Room are situated behind steel doors. The wine room is dedicated to bottle storage, while the second bar features blue-toned Zellige tiles, color-matched wood shelves, and a brass rail. The game room and lounge area, located in the basement, are designed to defy typical basement appearances. They include a shuffleboard table, a pool table, and a living space ideal for casual gatherings, reflecting a modern mountain home aesthetic. The powder bathroom features bold, small-scale patterned wallpaper that creates a significant visual impact against wood paneling. The bunk room utilizes a bold patterned wallpaper, with bunk beds painted in Dark Pewter by Benjamin Moore. The design maximizes space by positioning bottom bunks perpendicular to the top ones, allowing for nightstands and increased livability. The accompanying bunk bathroom features a long trough sink and subdued colors to highlight its luxurious materials. #SummitEstate #ModernArchitecture #InteriorDesign #LuxuryHomes #MountainLiving #EclecticDesign #HomeDecor #UtahDesign #StudioMcGee

The Bellver Más Mateu house, designed by SAU Taller d’Arquitectura, is situated on a 470-square-meter plot in Bellver de Cerdanya, Catalonia. This location offers the convenience of proximity to the town center, including shops and restaurants, while also providing expansive views of the Cadí mountain range to the west and the Tossa to the east. The architectural firm's design for this residential property maximizes the use of the plot, with the house occupying one-third of the area, specifically emphasizing the ground floor's footprint for enhanced accessibility to primary living spaces. Utilizing the natural slope of the terrain, the design integrates a basement level for parking and a small spa, requiring minimal excavation for an access ramp. The majority of the home's essential functions are concentrated on the ground floor. This includes the kitchen and dining area, which are oriented southeast to optimize natural sunlight throughout the day. The living room is strategically placed to capture afternoon light and provides broad vistas of the Cadí mountain range. A bedroom suite is also located on this ground level, contributing to the home’s accessible layout. The upper floor, characterized by a pitched roof, accommodates a study, two bathrooms, and two additional bedrooms, efficiently utilizing the attic space while maintaining a compact and functional overall design. SAU Taller d’Arquitectura's approach to the Bellver Más Mateu house is marked by a compact, solid form that evokes the aesthetic of a traditional mountain dwelling. The architects have chosen a simple pitched slate roof and vertical window openings, incorporating traditional materials such as Llívia stone and laminated fir wood to harmonize with the surrounding natural environment. A notable design element is the deliberate carving out of the building volume at the southeast corner. This architectural decision ensures ample natural light and ventilation for all interior spaces and creates a semi-exterior area. This sheltered outdoor space functions as a private extension of the garden, allowing residents to enjoy the outdoors in a more secluded setting. To preserve the home’s compact and formal structure and to enhance its connection with the exterior, the design incorporates vertical structural elements. These elements serve a dual purpose: they provide support for the building and act as visual frames. They also contribute to a sense of verticality and, when viewed from an angle, help to obscure the openings, maintaining a streamlined appearance. This structural methodology facilitates the integration of large openings that visually merge the indoor environments with the natural landscape. The structural framework of Bellver Más Mateu integrates all load-bearing components into the facade, which allows for a flexible and open interior layout. This is achieved through a mixed construction system that combines wooden beams with a concrete compression layer. This system efficiently distributes loads and permits spans of 6.3 meters, enabling the use of relatively slender beams that align with the vertical elements of the facade. This creates a cohesive and orderly aesthetic throughout the structure. In contrast to the compact exterior, the interior spaces are designed to feel expansive and bright. Double-height areas, diagonal sightlines, and subtle changes in floor level introduce a dynamic relationship with the irregular topography of the plot. These design features contribute to the adaptability of the home and strengthen its connection to the surrounding landscape, establishing a balanced integration of form, function, and nature. #ResidentialArchitecture #MountainHome #CatalanArchitecture #SAUTaller #TraditionalMaterials #NaturalLight #SustainableDesign #InteriorDesign #LandscapeIntegration

The article details the creation of Whimsy Valley, the Western North Carolina mountain retreat of photographer and historic preservationist Perry Vaile. Vaile and her husband embarked on a long journey to find and build their dream mountain home, ultimately settling on a property near Burnsville after a previous attempt in Chimney Rock was thwarted by a landslide specialist's warning, which proved prescient when the property was destroyed by Hurricane Helene. This experience highlighted the importance of thorough environmental assessments before purchasing land for construction. With the new property, Vaile collaborated with local contractor Chris Jarrett over two years to construct a home that harmonizes with its natural surroundings. Her background in historic preservation influenced the architectural choices, such as incorporating bark siding as a nod to late 1800s architect Henry Bacon, who popularized this style in Linville, North Carolina. This design decision aimed to give the new build vernacular sensitivity and integrate it respectfully into the region's architectural history. The interior design reflects Vaile's photography career, lending her an eye for creating visually compelling spaces. She combined antique pieces, diverse patterns, and a carefully curated color palette to achieve a timeless yet whimsical atmosphere. The living room features vaulted ceilings, providing a sense of grandeur and allowing for the inclusion of a stained-glass window sourced from a decommissioned church, which casts magical light when illuminated by the south-facing sun. The kitchen is designed to evoke warmth and character, channeling an "eccentric grandma" aesthetic. A William Morris patterned backsplash complements soft blue cupboards, adding texture and personality to the space. The master bedroom is built around a blue patterned wallpaper, inspired by an inn Vaile photographed, and features antique doors from an architectural salvage center in New Orleans. For her daughters' bedroom, Vaile aimed for a playful yet chic English bed and breakfast feel, incorporating gingham curtains and wallpaper from House of Hackney, with wood paneling completed by Vaile and her husband. Outdoor elements were also carefully considered. Vaile, who always desired to live near water, created an artificial stream that mimics natural rock formations and winds through the yard, providing a soothing soundscape and a scenic place to relax. The master bathroom features a copper tub as a focal point and an antique dresser with a marble countertop and stone sink, a resourceful find from Facebook Marketplace. The home also includes a wraparound deck equipped with rocking chairs, designed to offer expansive views of the surrounding mountains. The property is further enlivened by six miniature ponies, which roam the grounds, adding to the idyllic, storybook ambiance of Whimsy Valley, where Vaile's mother also resides in a nearby cabin, fostering a nostalgic, close-knit family environment. #MountainRetreat #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #HistoricPreservation #WesternNorthCarolina #WhimsyValley #ArchitecturalDesign #CustomHome #OutdoorLiving

This article provides a visual tour and description of a modern mountain retreat located in Mountain Brook, highlighting its unique architectural features and interior design choices. The exterior of the home showcases a deliberate contrast between dark cypress siding and creamy Texas limestone, adhering to a design philosophy that favors clean and crisp lines within a traditional framework. This blend of materials creates a sophisticated and contemporary curb appeal. Inside, the residence emphasizes natural light and a harmonious aesthetic across various spaces. The wet bar features mosaic marbled tile as a textured backsplash, complemented by open shelving and simple marble countertops, which together create a visually appealing and functional area. The kitchen is designed to maximize natural light through large windows, bathing the well-appointed space in brightness. It includes a substantial marble island with a farmhouse sink and detailed decorative edges, contributing to a relaxed ambiance achieved through cool tones and modern fixtures. The functionality of the home extends to practical areas such as the laundry room, which is equipped with roll-out hampers, closed cabinets, and open shelving, ensuring an organized and efficient space. The living area is centered around a custom limestone fireplace, which elegantly pairs with herringbone-patterned hardwood floors, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere. The master bathroom is another highlight, featuring a marbled mosaic floor, polished nickel plumbing, and custom steel-and-glass shower doors, all contributing to a luxurious and refined experience. Even transitional spaces are utilized for both style and utility, as seen in the breakfast room where a stylish storage area doubles as a display for beautiful serving pieces, integrating aesthetic appeal with practical storage solutions. Throughout the home, the design consistently blends modern elements with comfortable functionality, creating a retreat that is both visually stunning and highly livable. The meticulous attention to material selection and spatial design is evident in every room, demonstrating a thoughtful approach to contemporary living. #ModernArchitecture #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #LuxuryHomes #MountainBrook #LimestoneExterior #CypressSiding #KitchenDesign #BathroomDesign

This article showcases 12 modern ski chalets across various locations, each embodying unique design elements and offering luxurious winter retreats. The collection begins with an Aspen, Colorado, ski chalet redesigned by Ghislaine Viñas and S2 Architects, which transformed a three-level, nearly 6,000-square-foot structure. The chalet's low-pitched hipped roof was replaced with a contemporary gabled one, extending to create deep eaves over a cantilevered balcony. Inspired by Aspen's early Swedish settlers, traditional Alpine architecture, and vintage ski-bum culture, the southern facade features expansive glass, offering views of the snowy landscape. Another Aspen property, a three-level rustic-chic ski chalet, underwent modernization by Rowland+Broughton. This 1990s stone-and-glass dwelling, known for its sensitive integration with mountain surroundings, received architectural interventions such as enlarged, view-enhancing windows and sliding doors, alongside meticulous editing of existing glazing mullions. In Baie-Saint-Paul, Canada, Chalet Bertha, designed by Perron, is situated on a hillside in the Laurentian Mountains. This 7,500-square-foot snow chalet features clean lines, inviting textures, and abundant natural light. Its design, inspired by Germanic mythology's Alpine goddess, aims to evoke a "winter spirit indoors" warmed by human connection. The three-level structure offers panoramic views of the surrounding forest and the Saint Lawrence River. The article then moves to Norway, where Snorre Stinessen Architecture conceived a ski chalet-style lodge in the Lyngen Alps. Originally conceptualized as a cabin, it evolved into a luxurious hospitality destination for guests seeking world-class skiing and glacier trekking. The design emphasizes a connection with the landscape through simple, earthy materials and floor-to-ceiling windows providing panoramic views. A rustic cabin in Breckenridge, Colorado, renovated by Amy Pigliacampo, blends old and new. This 1976-built A-frame ski chalet, located at an elevation of 11,000 feet, underwent a significant transformation. Pigliacampo painted the original pine paneling white, opened up the space with a new window above the kitchen, and incorporated materials like cane, caramel leather, creamy wool, and various wood tones to achieve a "1970s Modern Alpine Chalet" aesthetic. Studio Shoo designed a hotel in Kogalym, Western Siberia, for Ibis Styles. This 7,600-square-foot property, conceived as a winter wonderland, draws inspiration from the region's subarctic climate. The Moxy Banff, formerly the Voyager Inn, is a Canadian ski lodge that received a $30 million overhaul by Workshop/APD and Metafor. Built in 1964, the motor lodge was revitalized to combine the Moxy brand's playful personality, Banff's outdoor spirit, and its mid-century architectural roots. In Park City, Utah, a property by CLB Architects and Iluminus co-founder David Ostrander offers striking views of the Wasatch Mountains. The design utilizes a material palette established by the building's exterior, including Croatian limestone, shou sugi ban cedar cladding, steel-framed windows, and a copper roof. A unique "pop-up perch" provides 360-degree views, reminiscent of forest-fire watchtowers. Loren Daye of Studio Love is Enough transformed a Hudson Valley country inn into the Alpine-inspired Little Cat Lodge, a 14-room ski hotel, tavern, and bar. The subtle makeover includes reclaimed mushroom box-clad walls, checkered daybeds, Isamu Noguchi lanterns, and custom maple furniture. In Truckee, California, a Martis Camp retreat designed by Bohlin Cywinski Jackson and the Wiseman Group is a 12,200-square-foot, three-level ski residence positioned to take advantage of Pacific Crest Trail views. The west-facing facade is almost entirely glass, complemented by overlapping cedar screens for privacy. The article also highlights two mid-century buildings by Herbert Bayer at the Aspen Institute in Colorado. The 1973 Boettcher Building was renovated by Rowland+Broughton, while the three International Style "ski chalets" for the Aspen Meadows Resort had their interiors reinvented by Michael Suomi, who incorporated legacy furniture pieces referencing Bauhaus origins. Finally, a single-story glass house by ACDF Architecture in Quebec’s Lanaudière region emphasizes its natural surroundings. Floor-to-ceiling glass windows maximize natural light and offer sweeping views. The interior features minimal furniture, muted tones, polished concrete flooring, and wooden plank ceilings with gaps to soften direct sunlight, creating spaces for both connection and privacy for a young family. #SkiChalets #WinterGetaway #ModernArchitecture #InteriorDesign #LuxuryHomes #AlpineDesign #RusticChic #SustainableDesign #GlassHouses

This article details the architectural design and features of the SHED/HOUSE, a 1300 sq ft residence completed in 2023 by Side Angle Side in Llano, United States. The house is strategically positioned on a central Texas hill to provide expansive southern views of the Texas Hill Country. Its design intentionally incorporates a blank facade that evokes the appearance of a traditional shed when approached from the public road, allowing it to blend seamlessly into the agricultural landscape. This camouflaged exterior is a key element of the architectural concept, creating a sense of integration with the rural surroundings. The interior layout of the SHED/HOUSE is structured around a linear plan comprising six distinct rectangular spaces. This progressive arrangement guides occupants from more public areas to increasingly private ones. The design prioritizes a strong connection between the indoor and outdoor environments, with every interior space offering a view or direct access to the exterior. A notable feature is the breezeway, which serves as a transition point. Upon passing the initial shed-like facade, visitors are led through this breezeway, which cleverly reorients the view back towards the captivating Texas Hill Country, setting the stage for the sequential experience of the interior. The project was curated by Hana Abdel, with architectural design by John Redington. J&M Remodeling served as the contractors, and Duffy Engineering provided structural engineering expertise. Photography was handled by Casey Dunn, capturing the essence of the design and its integration with the landscape. Key manufacturers involved in the project include Fisher & Paykel, DWR, Gerkin, Kohler, Material Bank, RBW, and The Shade Store, indicating a selection of quality materials and fittings. The use of wood and steel are significant material choices in the SHED/HOUSE, contributing to both its aesthetic and structural integrity. These materials align with the vernacular inspiration of the shed and contribute to a contemporary yet rooted architectural expression. The emphasis on views, the integration with the landscape, and the thoughtful progression of spaces define the core principles behind the SHED/HOUSE project, making it a notable example of residential architecture in the Texas Hill Country. #ResidentialArchitecture #Houses #TexasHillCountry #ModernDesign #WoodConstruction #SteelStructure #LlanoTexas #SideAngleSide #ArchitecturalPhotography

This article details the architectural design and construction of a modern, modest home on Elliott Island, Maryland, which received the 2020 Editor's Choice Award. The project, conceived as a weekend retreat for a family to spend time with the client's father, aimed to blend a rustic feel with contemporary design, harmonizing with the remote, fishing-shack-dominated community. David D. Quillin Architecture spearheaded the design, emphasizing measured proportions, a gentle aesthetic, and clean detailing. The home features an open floor plan designed to foster relaxed socializing, with common spaces oriented towards water views. A kitchen island and a stair cabinet effectively divide the main volume into distinct zones for different activities, accommodating both adults and children. The selection of Andy Bukovsky, a local master cabinetmaker but first-time general contractor, and Jerry Keith, the client's father who uses a wheelchair, as construction manager, influenced the design to incorporate accessibility from the outset. This collaborative effort underscored a shared commitment to unity and functionality within the home. Structural considerations were critical due to the home's waterfront location. Given that windows are concentrated on the rear side facing strong northwest winds, engineers recommended steel framing. The builder ingeniously addressed the challenge of integrating Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs) with steel by welding bolts to beams and then bolting 2x lumber to them. A steel beam in the roof plate was designed to bear on a metal post, stopping short of the exterior wall, to avoid penetrating the SIPs. The at-grade positioning of the floor, combined with extensive glazing, creates a sensation of being directly on the beach, even when indoors. The master suite is spatially separated from the main house by a glass bridge, offering privacy and a treehouse-like retreat. This separation also subtly alludes to the historical evolution of island properties, which often develop as a collection of distinct structures. Pilings were used for the master suite's foundation where the topography sloped away and to protect the roots of nearby pine trees, also allowing natural runoff to flow beneath, creating a visible stream from the bedroom. In contrast, the main house is firmly rooted with a slab-on-grade foundation. The central living space, with its concentrated glazing on the north side, maximizes water views and features a creative play area for children, promoting a "loose and organic" atmosphere for family interaction rather than formality. Materials such as concrete, brick, wood, and metal contribute to the desired rustic camp aesthetic. A notable design element is the shared chimney for two fireplaces, one in the great room and another on the rear deck. The initial football-like shape of the chimney was modified to a 7-ft.-diameter drum reducing to a smaller tower, with 90-degree corners where brick meets siding, simplifying flashing and brick-cutting. An aesthetic highlight is the cedar siding, which weathers to a gray finish where exposed to the sun, but retains an orange-gold color at the recessed entry, creating a beacon effect and adding contrast to the color palette. This natural weathering process helps the house blend seamlessly into its surroundings, reflecting thoughtful decisions in its construction and design. #ModernHomeDesign #RuralArchitecture #WaterfrontProperty #AccessibleDesign #SustainableMaterials #CustomCabinetry #ArchitecturalAwards #ResidentialConstruction #FamilyLiving

This blog post details the collaborative design process behind a sophisticated ranch-style home nestled in the Aspen mountains, a project born from the vision of architect Cristof Eigelberger and interior designer Shawn Henderson. Eigelberger, whose designs are heavily influenced by his Colorado upbringing and love for the outdoors, aimed to create a residence that seamlessly integrates with its rustic, natural surroundings while maintaining a modern aesthetic. Henderson, an AD100 interior designer, brought an understated elegance to the interiors, ensuring warmth and preventing distraction from the architectural elements. The five-bedroom residence features expansive 30-foot openings that visually merge the interior spaces with the breathtaking vistas of the surrounding mountains, including Ajax, Aspen Highlands, Snowmass, and Buttermilk. The living and dining areas are crowned by lofty, wood-vaulted ceilings, imbuing the spaces with both warmth and a sense of grandeur. An open-plan kitchen and family room incorporate a breakfast nook with a gabled glass end, designed to flood the entire area with natural light and offer uninterrupted mountain views. This seamless integration of indoor and outdoor elements is a hallmark of the home’s design. A central and distinctive feature of the residence is an open-air winter sculpture garden, conceptualized by Eigelberger. This intimate courtyard, positioned at the heart of the home, serves as a space where art and nature converge. The homeowners, avid art collectors, commissioned artist Will Ryman to create a site-specific sculpture for this space. Ryman’s contribution is a striking piece featuring soaring red and pink rose blossoms, crafted from fiberglass and stainless steel, reaching heights of 15 feet. Eigelberger describes this space as both dynamic and personal, offering a moment of stillness within the home and acting as a 'lantern' that allows filtered light to penetrate the surrounding rooms. Henderson's interior design approach focused on complementing Eigelberger’s architecture. He utilized organic textures and strong, simple forms, allowing the clients’ distinctive style to emerge. The color palette throughout the home is subdued, creating a serene environment that supports rather than competes with the architecture. Henderson, known for his unpretentious luxury, emphasized the symbiotic relationship between the interior design and the structural elements. He aimed to create inviting and visually stimulating environments that also provided cozy sanctuaries for the family. The homeowners, a New York couple with two children, now reside full-time in the 7,700-square-foot residence, which is situated on a five-acre property carved from a family ranch. The property boasts unobstructed views of all four Aspen mountains. The collaboration between Eigelberger and Henderson is highlighted by the clients as inspiring, noting a strong symbiotic relationship between the architect and designer from the project’s inception. The result is a home that balances the natural beauty of Aspen with a sophisticated, urbane interior sensibility, creating a unique mountain retreat. #AspenHome #RanchStyle #ModernArchitecture #InteriorDesign #MountainViews #CristofEigelberger #ShawnHenderson #SculptureGarden #ArtIntegration #LuxuryLiving