will bruder architects builds urban mountain retreat in aspen

will bruder architects builds urban mountain retreat in aspen
all images courtesy of will bruder architects 

the ‘urban mountain retreat’ is plopped amongst a small, wooded cul-de-sac mere blocks from the lifts of aspen/snowmass mountains. sharing the space with a neighborhood of smaller, mid-century homes and apartments, the residence’s appearance comes as response to the municipality’s urban form-based zoning laws. created by will bruder architects, the scheme is shaped by views to the natural environment. located centrally in the suburb, distant aspen mountain lies directly above the mid-point of the structure; which dips in order to keep the line of sight open.

approach 

from the central point, the roofline radiates up and out towards the north and south edges of the .21 acre site. the front façade is detailed with vertical charred cypress boards, accompanied by anthra-zinc metal cladding. upon entry, a skylit stair of hot-rolled steel and perforated sheet grabs attention, and guides the eyes toward a large window view of the mountain.

a central sculptural stair of hand wrought, blackened steel anchors the design

‘urban mountain retreat’ features five bedroom suites; one on the top floor, three located on the first floor, and a larger, fourth in the level below. downstairs, along with the sleeping quarters, is a common room that can be used for entertainment, exercise, or extra guests. above the main level, is the grand room, the home’s main pavilion. the space functions as living, dining, and kitchen areas, as well as the master bedroom suite.

the lower level retreat is energized by daylight through a sculpted light well

interior finishes include: polished, reflective white diamond plaster walls and ceilings, cabinets and doors of white, rift sawn oak, walnut flooring, large format porcelain tiles and carpet, and fireplaces and bathrooms in thin stone. the design is a sophisticated, modern take on the rustic lifestyle of aspen’s heritage, where all one’s senses are engaged and enhanced. 

upper level great room featuring a folded, reflective plaster ceiling

great room looking southwest

stair landing with plentiful exterior views 

generous size and height celebrates the aspen landscape 

the master bedroom features a textured steel and stone quilt fireplace

a glazed pathway links elements to the blackbird’s nest bedroom

the nest rooftop deck extends the upper level to the exterior 

angular geometries parallel the surrounding mountainous vista 

designboom has received this project from our ‘DIY submissions‘ feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.

edited by: nick brink | designboom