High Meadow Residence by Lake|Flato and Collarte Interiors

High Meadow Residence by Lake|Flato Architects and Collarte Interiors blends contemporary design with the rugged beauty of Aspen, Colorado, creating a harmonious mountain retreat.

Set among towering pines and expansive meadows, High Meadow Residence is composed of a series of wood and stone volumes that encourage outdoor exploration. The main living spaces reside in a large timber pavilion, offering views of the eastern mountains and a western courtyard. This pavilion connects two gabled structures reminiscent of western homesteads from the late 19th-century American frontier. The main bedroom is built from local field stone, while a charred cedar barn houses guestrooms and sleeping lofts.

Upon entering the home, one is greeted by a bridge-like boardwalk over the meadow, offering a sense of arrival that underscores the home’s ever-present connection to its environment.

Upon entering the home, one is greeted by a bridge-like boardwalk over the meadow, offering a sense of arrival that underscores the home’s ever-present connection to its environment. This thoughtful approach extends to every detail, from the strategic placement of windows that frame the breathtaking landscape to the use of durable materials that blend with the natural surroundings.

Sustainability is integral to the design, with radiant heating, thermal massing and a large solar array harnessing the sun’s energy. The material palette – silver quartzite, Shou Sugi Ban wood siding and natural timbers – reflects the surrounding landscape’s tones and textures and were chosen for their resilience in the alpine climate.

The material palette – silver quartzite, Shou Sugi Ban wood siding and natural timbers – reflects the surrounding landscape’s tones and textures and were chosen for their resilience in the alpine climate.

Constanza Collarte of Collarte Interiors curated warm, inviting spaces that complement the architecture. Elegant yet casual furnishings are functional for both summer and winter use, accommodating the family and their frequent guests. The interiors emphasise artisanal elements, with textures and subdued colours allowing the views to take centrestage. The contemporary art collection, including a striking Miró in the living room and Peter Doig drawings throughout, then adds a sophisticated touch.

The design prioritises both grand gatherings and intimate family moments. Large stacking sliders in the timber-framed pavilion open to the landscape, blurring the line between indoor and outdoor living. Courtyards defined by mature aspen groves create serene outdoor spaces connected to the house, enhancing the sense of openness and connection to nature.

The interiors emphasise artisanal elements, with textures and subdued colours allowing the views to take centrestage.

Lake|Flato’s approach ensures that the residence is both beautiful and practical. The design team meticulously planned every detail to ensure the home functions seamlessly in Aspen’s varied climate, crafting structures that protect the interiors from harsh winter winds while maximising sunlight and views. High Meadow Residence embodies a perfect balance of style, sustainability and functionality. Its design reflects a deep respect for the natural environment while providing a comfortable, elegant retreat for its owners.

Architecture by Lake|Flato Architects. Interior design by Collarte Interiors. Build by Kaegebein Fine Homebuilding. Landscape Design by Bluegreen. Structural Engineering by KL&A.