Tucked into a forest of aspen and pine trees, a mountaintop retreat expresses reverence for its surroundings and relevance in its design. Crafted as a modern alpine cabin, the stylish design from CCY Architects is a love letter to the American West. Alex Klumb, a partner at CCY Architects, and Simon Elliot, a principal, developed a natural look for the Telluride home clad in wood, limestone and steel, while expansive window walls allow the owners to effortlessly connect to the environment throughout the day.
“The clients were drawn to the forested site and its potential of being on the northern point of a mountain, providing opportunities for expansive views of the Rocky Mountains, yet seclusion and privacy,” Klumb explains. “Mountain views are important to the husband; privacy is important to the wife.”
The project initially concentrated on the generous use of glass and a sense of openness, Klumb shares. “The primary- and guest-suite wings flank the open living area, which includes the living and dining rooms, the kitchen and the breakfast nook. This open plan was very intentional.” In an effort to maintain an efficient footprint for the building, the architects worked with the existing property contours that rise from east to west, keeping site disturbance to a minimum. “The foundation is as close to a basic rectangle as the property and design would allow,” Klumb notes with a laugh.
Interiors from Studio Frank capitalized on the design interplay between the outside and in. “The quiet transition between the two creates a calm, relaxed, spa-like feel throughout,” notes interior designer Catherine Frank. “The uninterrupted transition into the home through the wall of glass in each space takes you back out again, providing a soft, quiet and inviting room.”
Another important factor is the lighting, both natural and artificial. “We placed fixtures between the wood beams in the main living area; they are directional and disappear into the background,” Elliot describes. “It feels very comfortable and natural.” Architectural fixtures over the dining room table, a pendant-style modern glass chandelier in the entry and even the kitchen’s hood contribute to the illumination, all of which are enhanced by abundant natural light. “It’s amazing, looking south – there’s just this incredible dappled light that comes from the forest,” he adds. “And the peaks to the north … The way the light changes on them throughout the day creates an alpine glow, especially in the evening.”
The owners are captivated by their new home, saying that the mix of materials and the architecture nailed the chic-but-cozy balance they were hoping for. The ultimate seal of approval is summarized by Elliot, who notes, in particular, the home’s welcoming spirit. “To me, it’s very approachable and comfortable. You can really see yourself living here.”
This or That with Simon Elliot
Design on the run: tablet or laptop? Tablet.
A.m. or p.m.: are you an early bird or night owl? Definitely a.m.; Alex can attest to that.
Earbud alert: playlist or podcast? Playlist, lots of 80s New Wave music.
Mindfulness: endless knowledge or endless imagination? Hmm, that’s a hard choice, I’d pick both!
Photography by Draper White.
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