While the site for this project has spectacular views of the Continental Divide and the small town of Nederland below, it sits in the prevailing wind path and is located at nearly 9,000 ft – making it an extreme winter environment. The original house, a small log cabin, was poorly situated on a challengingly narrow slice of land and provided no protection against the elements. The project was a complete remodel with a significant addition that would better integrate the building into the landscape. The changes made needed to both take in the context of the existing log structure and the surrounding environment. Inspiration from the region’s historic mining structures informs the building’s massing, form, and exterior material palate. Interior spaces were opened up and added to; creating a light-filled, spacious floor plan that remains respectful of the original building.

Sustainability was a forefront concern in the design and building of this project. Local products, sustainable finishes, and energy efficient measures were used. In 2008, the home was purchased by a chemically sensitive individual that bought the house as a result of its indoor air and “healthy home” qualities.