masa studio completes the kinderhorn residence in idaho

‘kinderhorn residence’ by marwan al-sayed, kinderhorn, idaho, united states
all images courtesy of marwan al-sayed

the ideal site – a 16 acre mountainous landscape sharing a border with the sun valley ski resort in idaho – led to a design that suits both environment and client alike. the ‘kinderhorn residence’ designed by marwan al-sayed is named after the surrounding range and responds to the site in materiality and scale. nestled into the hill, the home rests 200 feet above the valley and nearby town, blending into the earth with natural wood siding and subtle exposed concrete walls while enjoying incredible views of the peaks. the L shaped footprint creates a triangular courtyard at the entrance and heart of the residence, guaranteeing natural light and cross ventilation to each room. the purity of forms and datums defined by the various edges illustrating an orthogonal parti are contrasted by colorful panes of glass present within and throughout the structure – when illuminated at night the home transforms into a composition of colors at night.

the ground level contains the ski waxing room, recreation room, study and attached garage. in the cantilevered volumes projecting from the mountain are the kitchen, living and dining rooms. subtle twists and folds in the design directly relate to site conditions. the master bedroom along the north end slightly bends off axis to align perfectly with the kinderhorn mountain. the exterior materials in the winter time are partially blanketed and the home nearly disappears amongst the rocks.

view from above the house

front facade

entry courtyard

(left) deck
(right) material detail

profile in the landscape

entry courtyard

(left) garage
(right) entrance

view from the deck

living room

living room

large glass panes wrap the social areas on the second story

stairwell

kitchen area

colorful glass panels add life to an otherwise neutral color palette

bathroom