In an effort to maintain the character of a historic mountain mining town, the exterior appearance of this home was determined and judged by the local design committee. The Owner and Architect chose to develop the interior as an expression of a personal aesthetic in contrast to the rough exterior, clad in reclaimed barn wood and shakes.

The house serves as a part time retreat for a couple and their extended family. As intended, when occupied, the house feels full to capacity. Floors are organized to separate public from private spaces: the ground level consists of bedrooms; main living spaces occupy the middle level; and a bunk room/hang out is tucked into the attic. Because entry occurs on the floor below the main living spaces, the stair needed to be graphic; lighting is used to dramatize the climb. The interior finish is spare and sharp with the exception of reclaimed lumber on the floors. Emphasis is left to breath-taking views of the pasture below, with valleys and mountain peaks beyond.