The 88-acres of land bordering on a national preserve is an engaging wilderness. The site has sweeping vistas in all directions but is rugged and unforgiving. It occupies the north side of a mountain at an elevation of 7,700 feet. And although there was an extensive program, the client wanted construction to be minimally intrusive so that the architecture could be infused with an experience of the natural landscape.

Access required we build a bridge over a stream and pond and traverse a rise in grade of 90 ft. This was accomplished by a single sweeping curved drive which connects a helipad, barn, stables and paddocks with the 15,000-sq. ft. main house compound. Careful site planning and close collaboration with the architect insured that all the buildings and roadway fit the existing terrain and vegetation. Supplemental plantings of native trees and wildflowers were minimal. Natural hot springs provided a geothermal heating system for the entire house and permitted extensive snow melt under all walks and terraces. A network of hiking and riding trails was designed to lead out directly from major rooms of the house and the stables.

Architect: Michael Rubin Architects