​This project presented a challenge that was specific to its site and unusual for our firm.​ Most of our work is on a site that puts its back to one thing in order to look out at another. In this case, however, the views were above the house, in the mountains that surround it, so there was no front or back. As we searched the property for a suitable building site, there was little to differentiate one area from another. Then a large round hay bale provided the unlikely tool we needed to find the right spot. Its height was equivalent to the height above the existing grade that the house would need to sit to avoid spring flooding. Centering the house on the bale, we excavated enough earth to both raise the house and create a small lake that has since become part of the river ecosystem.​

​Our clients wanted us to lean in on the location of the home when it came to the aesthetics of the interiors. While we did not want to make the space look cliché, we also wanted the great room to remind its inhabitants that they were in a beautiful, wild, Wyoming valley. A graphic, native influence wool rug spans the floor, paired with deep, comfortable upholstery wrapped in durable yet soft textiles.

Open to the great room, the kitchen is the heart of this home. After a few rounds of sample boards, we landed on the perfect deep blue tone for the cabinetry. The soapstone countertops, blackened steel hood, and dark bronze hardware anchor this moody space, which becomes surprisingly bright during the day as light floods in from both sides of the room. The back pantry is compact and efficient, storing overflow tabletop items, specialty bakeware, and cleaning supplies.

While there are endless activities in the valley during the summertime, the wintertime is a bit quieter. With that in mind, we designed a game nook at the back of the great room that has three walls of shelving for books and games aplenty. Custom striped cushions wrap the nook, and throw blankets are not far from reach, creating a restful escape from the great outdoors. There are also pocket doors that allow the space to close, which come in handy when games get a bit rowdy and competitive.

Comfort and views were king for this client in all bedrooms. There are deep, french-mattress style cushions set in the window seats in both of these spaces, providing a private spot for reading, napping, or star gazing, with the opportunity to take in the beautiful surrounding mountains. The beds have upholstered headboards and plush linens, encouraging those who come to stay awhile.

A generous, white oak double vanity spans the wall in the primary bath, paired with horizontally paneled walls and a simple free-standing bathtub. The brightness of the bathroom falls in contrast to the shower, which has deep blue tile and speaks to the kitchen palette.