Project: Mountain retreat
Architects: Roland + Proton Architecture
location: Aspen, Colorado, United States
Area: 10,750 SF
general: 2020
photos by: Brent Moss Photography
Mountain Retreat by Roland + Proton Architecture
Rowland + Broughton Architecture designed this contemporary luxury mountain resort in Aspen, Colorado. With just under 11,000 square feet of lavish living space, this lodge-style home is spread across three levels and has access to beautiful views. Of course if you like this studio’s work on this project, you should also explore the Lookout House project as well as the Game On Home project, both of which are based in Aspen.
This organic lodge-style home in the Five Trees neighborhood at the base of the Aspen Highlands ski area is a multi-generational home that facilitates the contemporary lifestyle. The design of the three-level, 10,750-square-foot structure prompted National Park to follow neighborhood design guidelines while incorporating modern features.
On a heavily wooded lot on a steep mountain slope and amidst a forest of aspen and fir trees, the design team carved the house into the hillside, effectively creating a ‘seat’ by building a retaining wall along the southern elevation. A flat landing carved into the hill allowed for a pool deck off the living room as well as a large parking lot.
Addressing the need to accommodate the activities of multiple families and generations, flow was critical to the design. Under the 10-foot ceilings (kept intentionally low to encourage a sense of intimacy), the large gathering and seating areas used for entertaining were organized so that they could be closed off from private spaces. The game room, gymnasium, massage room, wine room and back of the house were located in the basement. An elevator with open staircases connects all three levels.
Generous natural light flows freely throughout the home through vision centered corner windows. Floor-to-ceiling glass windows and sliding doors are purposefully placed, creating the effect of a glass box with a green roof and sweeping views. A 13′-6″ x 16′-6″ skylight is fitted in the kitchen. Clean visual connections were created between the public spaces on the main level, as well as to the expansive decks and terraces, pool and spa, and parking lot.
The interior design provides visual connections between the public spaces on the main level and includes connections to the outdoor living spaces and views of three local valleys. Five equal bedroom suites with consistent features and plenty of natural light allowing for generous and flexible sleeping arrangements. Prime materials throughout include Havana Oak floors with a soap finish, Level 5 painted walls, stone tiles, and custom woodwork including a cracked white oak ceiling.
The exterior materials were informed by the textural nature of the surrounding mountains, as well as the famous national park lodges. A combination of cut and slotted natural sandstone and stone coverings, along with 1.5-inch-thick stained wood siding, is protected by a fixed metal roof. Additional materials and elements include a wood screen at the entrance, heavy wood tails, steel sills, and an environmentally beneficial green roof over the living room.
“It was the most enjoyable project we’ve done and we’ve done so much. There wasn’t a problem you couldn’t solve or a challenge you didn’t meet face to face! Thank you again for your professionalism and the outstanding working relationship we have gained through this. You are a talented architect and we are thrilled with the outcome. Thank you for everything.” – Owner of Mountain Retreat
Roland + Proton Architecture
