Tucked sensitively into the surrounding mountainscape with ski-in, ski-out access to Aspen Highlands slopes, this tri-level 9,217 square foot family vacation home comfortably accommodates multiple generations. The purposeful juxtaposition of old and new creates a refined sensorial atmosphere. The addition of color throughout adds a sense of playfulness. Key strategies included a combination of structural and material changes to illuminate the views of the surrounding natural environment while tying existing living areas together to create a more contemporary, integrated space.

With the intention of bringing architectural rigor to the original 1990s home while injecting character and vitality, the team undertook an extensive interior remodel. Working within an existing framework that felt dark and disconnected, the team reconceptualized the plan with aims to bring in natural light and increase functionality through a more open, connected plan. On the main level, thoughtful editing of the space, including the demolition of certain walls (between the kitchen and family room, and in the living room, for instance) resulted in a more open plan that encourages a modern lifestyle. A remotely located guest bedroom and sitting room suite offers privacy for elders. A ski-in, ski-out gear room provides easy access to the slopes and storage for multi-seasonal sporting equipment.

An enclosed stairwell was re-conceived as a transparent, open structural staircase uniting the home’s three floors and allowing light to pour in from surrounding windows. Upstairs, the primary bedroom suite was reconfigured into a single continuous gable volume flanked by an office and an ample sitting area. Open trusses connect the private spaces in the suite, distributing natural light and accentuating the roof form. A pair of children’s bedrooms playfully reflect individual personalities.

The lower level houses an adventure room, a media room, a bunk room, and a recreation room with a rock-climbing wall. An elevator connecting all three levels makes access easier for all ages. Mountainside terraces and nooks extend the living experience outside.

Throughout the home, special attention was given to existing woodwork. Supporting the intention of creating a vibrant, casual living environment, focus was put on brightening the feel of the space through increasing natural daylighting, ventilation opportunities and indoor-outdoor connections. A lightening of the overall palette included bleaching the original floors and ceilings to enhance texture. Two existing staircases were re-finished and new modern metal mesh guardrails were designed to complement existing metal detailing on ceiling trusses. Doors were replaced with sliders, mullions were edited out of existing windows, and new windows were added.

Within the refreshed environment, meticulous attention was paid to the selection and placement of furnishings, supporting the intention of creating a vibrant, casual living environment for all.

“When we bought the house, we saw that it was a once-in-a-lifetime location
next to the slopes, with privacy and proximity to town ... But our second thought
was that we needed to reconceptualize the space… [Now] we consider it such
an honor that we get to enjoy this special home ... We are incredibly fortunate to
be stewards of this place and look forward to being Aspen locals.”
– Homeowners, Thunderbowl