Perched atop remote Sunshine Mesa on a sunny 80 acre site near Telluride, Colorado, this 13,000 sq.ft. residence was designed to take full advantage of the dramatic alpine scenery of the San Juan Range and the open mountain meadows below. The fine mahogany siding and Arkansas cut stone of the exterior lend a sense of permanence to the structure, as though it, too, is indigenous to the site.
In order to maximize the views, the house was divided into "pods" which not only break up the mass of the structure into comfortable living spaces, but also orient each living area by spatial function to a specific vista beyond. In addition, as the client is an avid art collector, one of his chief requirements was his desire to have a home which would showcase his impressive collection of contemporary art. To that end, the circulation axis slicing through the house creates two story light wells which illuminate the main gallery for display.
With an eye to further customizing this already unique home, the architect and client worked together with local craftsmen to design and fashion a collection of one of a kind paduk hardwood furniture and custom millwork detailing on windows and doors. A successful and conscientious effort was made to use only those natural materials which are still abundant and are not counted among endangered species.