Colorado Residence

by Robbins Architecture

The architecture of the home is composed of a series of spaces elegantly layered together, which gradually break down the scale of the site as they transition into the interior spaces.

Set elevated on the ranch land and surrounded by the majestic landscape of the Rocky Mountains, this home really is a modernist, structural and aesthetic beauty. The house was to reflect the surrounding mountains and sit with a strength and permanence on the land, while at the same time portraying the elegance and serenity of the wild grasses blanketing the valleys.

To fit the scale and grandeur of the site the composition began with the idea of a single mass that slowly erodes away. This is evident with a striking structural and feature wall at the entrance sitting perpendicular, with roof behind, which is then treated as an extension and not an additive horizontal plane.

Concrete construction challenges involved elaborate formwork walls poured in situ or cast on the ground and then hoisted up to connect to the steel frame. Complimenting the exterior concrete stained wood soffits and accent walls interweave in and out of the home to create impressive detail and invite you in.

The home itself is composed of a series of spaces elegantly layered together. These divided spaces gradually break down the scale of the site as they transition inside. The front courtyard is the first “room” of the house and opens into the two-story stair hall that frames the mountain views beyond. With each new space transition, a new purpose presents while consistently aiming the focus outside. The large structural glass walls provide a blurred separation between the house and outdoor landscape.

With local stringent energy codes sustainability was essential. Facing south towards the mountains, solar heat gain posed a challenge. Overhangs and programmable motorized shades create a barrier from the sunlight and snow reflection in winter, while spray foam insulation and an advance mechanical system regulate the indoor temperature. All windows are double and triple glazed low E coated and provide adequate daytime light. A 48 KW PV array solar farm on the property helps to offset the energy load created by the pool and hot tub.

This Colorado home is an architectural delight, offering a dramatic beauty by commanding a strong presence on the land, combined with an elegant and comfortable calm.